What is HR Generalist?

Meaning & Definition

HR Generalist

An HR Generalist is a human resources professional who performs a wide range of HR duties across various functions within an organization. This role is often responsible for handling a broad spectrum of HR tasks, rather than specializing in a specific area of human resources. HR Generalists are crucial in small to mid-sized organizations, where they provide comprehensive HR support, but they can also be found in larger organizations, especially within specific departments or as part of a general HR team.

Key responsibilities and functions of an HR Generalist typically include:

• Recruitment and Selection

HR Generalists often participate in the recruitment and hiring process, from job posting and candidate screening to interviewing and onboarding. They may work closely with hiring managers to identify staffing needs.

• Employee Onboarding and Offboarding

They are involved in welcoming new employees, facilitating orientation, and managing exit procedures when employees leave the organization.

• HR Policy and Compliance

HR Generalists help ensure that HR policies and practices align with employment laws and regulations. They may provide guidance on compliance issues, such as wage and hour laws, anti-discrimination laws, and workplace safety regulations.

• Employee Relations

Handling day-to-day employee relations matters, addressing employee concerns, and assisting with conflict resolution. They may also conduct investigations into workplace issues.

• Performance Management

Administering performance appraisal processes, providing guidance on performance improvement plans, and helping managers with employee development.

• Benefits Administration

Managing employee benefits programs, which may include health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits offered by the organization.

• Training and Development

Coordinating training programs and assisting in identifying employee development needs.

• Record Keeping

Maintaining employee records and ensuring data accuracy, which is essential for HR reporting and compliance.

• Compensation

Assisting with compensation matters, including salary surveys, pay equity, and job evaluations.

• HR Communications

Communicating HR policies, programs, and initiatives to employees and ensuring that they are well-informed about HR-related matters.

• HR Technology

Utilizing HRIS (Human Resources Information Systems) or other HR technology tools to manage HR data and processes.

• Employee Engagement

Implementing employee engagement initiatives, surveys, and feedback mechanisms to improve workplace morale and productivity.

HR Generalists are often considered the “go-to” HR professionals within an organization. They have a well-rounded understanding of HR principles and practices, allowing them to handle various HR tasks, address employee concerns, and provide HR support to different departments. Their role is critical in ensuring that the organization’s HR functions run smoothly and efficiently.

The specific duties and level of responsibility of an HR Generalist can vary depending on the size and structure of the organization, with larger organizations having more specialized HR roles alongside the generalist function.