HR Associate Resume

A step-by-step guide to writing an HR Associate resume with a free template included.

By Toni Ross, Jan 26, 2021

Toni Ross is the Senior Editor of Betterteam. Her interests include developing resources that help build and grow value-oriented, connected teams, both personal and professional.

An HR Associate talking to an employee in a boardroom

Human resources (HR) associates perform clerical and HR-related tasks to support staff and employees. Great knowledge of HR information system (HRIS) software, precision, and superb interpersonal skills will help your application stand out. Highlight leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and sound judgment in your resume.

HR Associate Resume Free Template

Download this HR associate resume template in Microsoft Word format.

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HR Associate Resume Example:

[Your Name]

[Current job title, if applicable]

[Street Address]

[City]

[Zip Code]

[Contact number] | [Professional email address]
[Link to HR blog] | [LinkedIn profile]

Summary:

[Briefly discuss your experience, skills, and how you will improve the operational efficiency of the organization in your role as an HR associate.]

Achievements/Highlights

[List any achievements/awards/notable contributions related to HR in reverse chronological order.]

Experience:

[Company Name / Job Title, Month 20XX – Present, Location]
[Briefly describe key duties and contributions related to HR management. Any customer service jobs or experience that highlights leadership and organization skills can be listed.]

[Company Name / Job Title, Month 20XX – Month 20XX, Location]
[Briefly describe key duties and contributions related to HR management. Any customer service jobs or experience that highlights leadership and organization skills can be listed.]

Certifications:

[Name of certificate / license, Institution, 20XX]

Education:

(List your schools in reverse chronological order)

[School or institution | Location, Month 20XX – Month 20XX]
[Degree name / Majors]

[School 2 | Location, Month 20XX – Month 20XX]
[Degree name / Majors]

Skills:

[Bulleted list of key skills relevant to administration and HR management. List 5–10 skills, including both soft and hard skills. Be sure to include software and tools you’re familiar with.]

How to Write an HR Associate Resume:

$0.00 USD

4 Hours

Follow our step-by-step guide to writing a professional, attention-grabbing resume that's sure to catch the hiring manager's attention.

Add your personal details and a summary.

1.1

Add your current contact information.

At the top of your resume, write your name, address, contact number, email, and LinkedIn profile. For out-of-state HR positions, foreground your virtual HR skills, highlighting competencies in relevant software as well as your prowess as a virtual recruiter. If you have an HR blog, this is an impressive resource to share with employers.

1.2

Write a summary.

In 2–3 lines, mention the personal attributes that make you the ideal HR associate for the organization. Pique the recruiter's interest by giving them a taste of what you can do in the role. You may mention career objectives, but tread lightly and don't mention managerial aspirations as the current manager may end up reading your resume.

1.3

Add your achievements or highlights.

Any awards for innovation and leadership in the HR field go here. However, not all achievements receive awards, so consider the professional goals and milestones you've reached that haven't received formal recognition. If you organized a revolutionary team- building event or streamlined a talent acquisition process, prospective employers should know.

Add your employment history, qualifications, and skills.

2.1

Discuss your experience in human resource management or related roles.

Before applying for an HR associate position, you would have had to gain experience in entry-level HR jobs. Experience as a junior recruiter or an HR assistant could be listed here. Newer graduates could mention related jobs as customer service agents, receptionists, or any other roles that highlight attention to detail and communication skills.

2.2

List any licenses or certifications.

While many HR roles don't strictly require certifications, they are key indicators of employee commitment and performance. Some great certifications to help increase HR employment prospects include Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP), Professional in Human Resources (PHR), and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP).

2.3

Add your qualifications or educational background.

The minimum requirement for an HR associate position is an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in HR, which can be obtained from a community or online college. You can also enter the HR field with degrees in business, finance, marketing, management, or business administration. Some employers may prefer an MBA or Master's degree in HR.

2.4

Add your skill set.

The most important skills employers look for in HR associates include management, employee relations, and problem-solving skills. Sound knowledge of recruitment processes, the relevant labor laws, and HR software such as Sage People, Zoho Recruit, Rippling, Manatal, and HireAbility, is essential. You should also be both personable and professional.

FAQs:

What should I put on my HR associate resume?

Contact information.
Summary.
Achievements/highlights.
Experience.
Licenses & certifications.
Education.
Skills.

What skills are HR associates expected to have?

Superb management, problem-solving, and employee relations skills.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
A good understanding of talent acquisition processes, labor laws, and Human Resources information system (HRIS) software.
The ability to work alone and to collaborate with others.

What is the role of an HR associate?

An HR associate gathers, analyzes, and interprets HR-related information within an organization. They handle employee and staff issues with discretion and typically work alongside HR assistants and HR managers to ensure smooth business operations.

What is the difference between an HR assistant and an HR associate?

An HR assistant is a junior position that requires a basic high school diploma or GED, while an HR associate is a more experienced professional who holds at least an Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline.

How do I get certified as an HR associate?

Once you have completed your HR or HR-related qualification and reached the appropriate level of experience, you can go about obtaining certification in the human resources field. Visit HumanResourcesEdu.org to find out which HR certificate will advance your career and to learn more about the eligibility requirements.