Human Resources Assistants

It’s no secret that the way into a company is often through the human resources (HR) department. And the first person you see in HR might well be an HR assistant.

HR assistants at large organizations may specialize. But others do everything from updating employee records to giving tests to job applicants to answering employee questions about health care benefits. Employers place a great deal of trust in HR assistants, who often have access to private information, such as the salaries and health conditions of their coworkers.

Human resources assistants help maintain employee records and may assist in other areas, such as hiring and orienting new workers. They may also take on general clerical duties, such as answering the phone.

Are You Ready To...?

• Update employee records
• Answer employee questions
• Put together orientation packets
• Send out job announcements
• Prepare reports, contracts, and other paperwork for managers

It Helps To Be...

A highly organized person who pays attention to details and works well with others. You should also be able to juggle many projects under a tight deadline.

Make High School Count

• Master the computer. Be able to type fast and become familiar with word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Pay attention in English. You’ll need to write reports and other documents that are free of errors in spelling and grammar.
• Sign up for speech or drama to polish your spoken communication skills. As an HR assistant, you’ll be speaking with coworkers daily and possibly representing your organization to the outside world.