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How to become an HR Assistant

HR Assistant

Career progression and salary expectations for an HR Assistant

1

HR Assistant

| Up to £24,000
2

HR Advisor

| Up to £32,000
3

HR Manager

| Up to £50,000

The role of an HR Assistant

Are people your top priority? You should become an HR Assistant…

An HR Assistant handles a variety of administrative and clerical duties. They provide general support to the HR team, and assist with the day-to-day running of the department.

Their role covers all things employee related, and it requires them to be knowledgeable about policies, regulations, and procedures. They also ensure employee records are correct and up to date, arrange HR projects, and handle complaints and grievances.

Typical duties for an HR Assistant could include:

  • Processing payroll related data, including absences, bonuses, and leaves
  • Assisting with the recruitment and initial orientation of new staff members
  • Ensuring the company’s processes comply with employment law
  • Dealing with employee benefits
  • Maintaining confidentiality with all employee data
  • Providing secretarial support through tasks such as data entry, printing, and answering the phone
Excellent communication skills and an ability to work well as a team are essential traits to have to be a good HR Assistant. As the role is based around the support of others, you’ll need to enjoy working with people, and have a patient and diplomatic approach to all employee related issues.

Additionally, you’ll need to have a good attention to detail, and a wide knowledge of databases and word processing packages in order to process employee information and compile and report data.To become a successful HR Assistant, you’ll also need to be:

  • Extremely organised
  • Able to remain calm in tough situations
  • A great problem solver
  • Friendly and approachable
  • Professional
  • Tactful and discreet
"I left school at 16, and knew I wanted to get straight into a job where I could work with people. Having gained some basic admin experience through various temp jobs, I was able to break into the HR industry as an HR Assistant. I get a great sense of achievement from knowing that I’m working to make other’s lives easier in their jobs – and although it can be stressful at times when dealing with difficult situations and dissatisfied colleagues, this only makes me want to try even harder to solve the problems and make sure the whole team is happy."

Get qualified as an HR Assistant

There are no specific entry requirements to become an HR Assistant, and it is often an entry-level position. However, previous experience in an administrative, recruitment, or employee relations role, and/or accredited CIPD qualifications will work to your advantage and improve your chances of being considered. Staying updated on HR software systems (such as Oracle and Sage Payroll), and changes in employment law is also important for success in this field.

Recommended HR courses

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