Becoming a Human Resources Administrator
We have all worked with a HR Administrator at one time or another. You probably work with one now! Human resources administrators are essential to a business. They have a very important role to play in recruitment, training and the morale of the company’s employees.
But what exactly do they do? Where do they work? How much do they make and how do you become a human resources administrator?
We’re going to answer all of these questions and more in our complete guide on everything you wanted to know about becoming a human resources administrator.
What is a human resources administrator?
A human resources administrator works under a human resources manager, completing tasks and administrative work for the human resources department.
What do human resources administrators do?
Human resources administrators can have a variety of tasks to perform as a part of their role, depending on the company’s size and scope. They could be in charge of keeping employee skills matrix and personnel files up to date. They might be in charge of writing training packs or delivering training sessions for staff.
HR administrators also often work closely with the HR managers to assist with position descriptions, interview processes, staff management and staff wellness programs.
Where do human resources administrators work?
HR staff are needed in all companies and all industries, from healthcare to the public sector, to retail, business and academia. Human resources administrators can work in any industry that interests them. These workers are in-demand. There’s always positions opening for human resource professionals.
How much do human resources administrators make?
According to indeed.com, the average salary for a human resources administrator is $61,781. But this salary range can go up or down depending on the industry, the company and the role.
What kind of skills do you need?
There are all kinds of skills that will help you to excel in the human resources field. Let’s unpack a few of these special skills below.
Compassion
In human resources you’ll be the point of contact between the staff and management, and the staff and the company. The employees will be coming to you if there’s instances of workplace bullying, intimidation, sexual harassment or personal conflicts. So, it’s very important that you show compassion and empathy when dealing with these staff complaints. Being able to empathise with employees and finding a common ground to mediate and negotiate between staff members will be essential to your role.
Communication skills
In human resources, you need exceptional verbal and written communication skills. You will need to be writing reports, training materials and file notes as well as much more. You’ll also be acting as a conduit between different team members, managers, department heads and outside contractors.
Organisation Skills
With so many tasks to keep in check and a lot of sensitive information circulating within the human resources department, it’s very important that you have exceptional organisation skills. Keeping sensitive and personal information well organised and filed within the company’s systems, is paramount to this role.
Collaboration
Human resources administrators have to work with every department and all staff members within the company. So, exceptional collaboration skills are essential to this role. Collaborating with other team members within the HR department and higher ups in the company to set standards for employee engagement and staff hiring and training policies is a big part of your role in human resources.
Attention to detail
In human resources, you need to have an eye for the finer details, you have a lot of very personal information to manage within the department. Being able to keep all personnel files managed, updated and maintained to privacy requirements, is very important. Having a strong eye for detail and fastidious nature will serve you well in human resources.
Problem solving skills
Working in HR means dealing with the most unpredictable element of any business; the people. You’ll need to use creative problem solving skills to handle the vast variety of conflicts and issues that can happen in the workplace. Exceptional negotiation skills and problem solving skills will help you to excel in Human Resources.
How do you become a human resources administrator?
There are many different paths to human resources. One way to fast-track your career in human resources is to complete the Certificate IV in Human Resources Management . This course can be completed entirely online through self-paced, trainer-supported study. It can take anywhere from six months to twelve months to complete depending on the delivery mode.
In this course you’ll learn how to:
- Administer performance development processes
- Support employee and industrial relations
- Support the learning and development of teams and individuals
- Coordinate recruitment and onboarding
- Support human resource functions and processes
- Implement and monitor WHS policies, procedures and programs
- Coordinate health and wellness programs
- Apply business risk management processes
- Organise business meetings
- Undertake project work
- Apply communication strategies in the workplace
- Coordinate separation and termination processes
You can learn more about the course here.
Final Thoughts
Human resources is a fantastic career path for anyone who is good with people and wants the opportunity to mentor staff and help them to progress in their careers. It gives you the chance to shape and change company culture for the better and to help people.
If you’re interested in getting into this exciting career path, you can check out the course here, or organise to have a chat with our one of our friendly course advisors. We’d love to help you find the right course for you.