Many people in the workforce have heard of the terms “HR generalist” and “HR manager,” but they may not know exactly what the difference is between the two. An HR generalist is someone who performs a variety of human resources functions, while an HR manager typically specializes in one or two areas of HR. But what does that mean in terms of job responsibilities? Let’s take a closer look at the HR generalist vs. HR manager debate.
What Does an HR Generalist Do?
An HR generalist is responsible for a wide range of duties within the human resources department. They may be involved in recruiting, benefits administration, employee relations, training and development, and more. HR generalists typically have a good understanding of all facets of human resources, and they are able to provide assistance and support in a variety of areas.
One of the main responsibilities of an HR generalist is to ensure that all HR functions are carried out in compliance with company policy and applicable laws. This includes keeping up to date on changes in employment law and ensuring that the company’s HR policies are in line with these changes. So by understanding what is an HR generalist you also know that they play an important role in keeping the company compliant and up to date.
What Does an HR Manager Do?
An HR manager typically specializes in one or two areas of human resources. For example, they may be responsible for recruiting and hiring, employee relations, or training and development. While HR managers may have a good understanding of all areas of HR, they have more in-depth knowledge and experience in their area of specialization. The responsibilities of an HR manager vary depending on their area of focus, but they typically involve developing and implementing policies and procedures, overseeing employee relations issues, and administering training programs.
The Difference Between HR Generalists and HR Managers
The main difference between HR generalists and HR managers is the scope of their responsibilities. HR generalists have a broad knowledge of all areas of human resources, while HR managers typically specialize in one or two areas. Another difference is that HR generalists typically work in smaller organizations where they are responsible for a variety of HR functions, while HR managers usually work in larger organizations and have more specialized roles. However, in general, they both play important roles in the human resources department and contribute to the success of the organization.
The Bottom Line
With the help of this article, you will understand the responsibilities of an HR generalist vs. an HR manager. Whether you’re looking to specialize in one area of HR or have a more generalist role, both positions can offer a variety of challenges and opportunities for career growth. So, if you’re interested, look for reputable HR classes to help you get started in this field. You can also find many online HR courses that can give you a good overview of the different areas of HR and help you decide which path is right for you.
