How to List Human Resources Skills on a Resume: Best Skills and Examples

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Human resources professionals use a variety of valuable skills to accomplish their duties including communication, conflict management and leadership. Knowing how to list these skills effectively on a resume can help your application stand out and can increase your chances of finding your dream job. In this article, learn more about listing human resources skills on your resume and how you can improve those skills to showcase your unique abilities for the job.

Why employers want to see human resources skills on your resume

Human resources skills are primarily related to your ability to interact and cooperate with others. They also involve your capability to manage and communicate with a team. Many employers are specifically looking for applicants who show proficiency in the types of conflict management, negotiation and decision-making skills that are common in human resources professionals. Displaying excellent human resources skills can make you a valuable asset in any industry.

How to list human resources skills on a resume

Here are some steps you can follow to effectively list human resources skills on your resume:

1. First, consult the job description

The first step in writing any resume is to carefully read over the job descriptions for any positions that interest you. Most job postings include a list of skills that an employer is looking for. Make a list of all the requirements that you meet so that you can include them on your resume.

2. Second. choose a format

Next, you will need to choose an effective method for formatting your skills list. Most resume experts recommend using a bulleted list to help you keep your list concise and easy to read. You will need to make sure your font size, font color and your choice of bullet all remain consistent throughout the list.

3. Third, use relevant keywords

When deciding which skills to list on your resume, focus on using keywords that are common in the human resources field. If you are hoping to find a human resources job, it is important that you include skills that are clearly relevant to the duties and requirements of the position. If you are unsure of which keywords to use, consult human resources job postings or ask a current HR professional for advice.

4. Then, focus on your strengths

Prioritize the skills in which you are the most confident. Organizing your skills list from most to least relevant will help you capture the attention of the employer as soon as they begin to read. Be careful not to overstate your proficiency in a certain area. If you lack a required skill, you can mention your willingness to be trained or your ability to learn on your own.

5. Lastly, be specific about your level of experience

Make an effort to be specific when it comes to your proficiency levels. You might include how many years of experience you have in a certain area or include the fact that you are certified in a particular skill. These details will give your reader a more accurate understanding of your qualifications and can help you stand out from other applicants.

Best human resources skills to add to a resume

Here are some common human resources skills that you can list on your resume:

Communication skills

Good communication skills involve your ability to relay information, give instructions and receive feedback. One of the primary goals of a human resources team is to facilitate productive workplace communication and to assist in overcoming miscommunication issues. Being an efficient communicator can help you succeed in a variety of roles.

Negotiation

Human resources departments are typically responsible for hiring new employees and offering promotions to current employees. Part of doing so is negotiating contracts and handling employee/employer agreements. Human resources negotiation skills often involve the ability to communicate with two parties and find a solution that satisfies both sides.

Conflict management

Conflict management often plays a major role in an HR professional’s duties. Whenever a dispute arises between employees or between an employee and the employer, the human resources department may be called on to help resolve the issue. This can involve presiding over meetings, handling employee discipline and instituting new policies.

Integrity

Human resources professionals are often held responsible for confidential information. It is crucial that they always show integrity and honesty in the workplace. This includes adhering to the company’s policies and following regulations, even in challenging situations. Human resources professionals with integrity are trusted and relied on by both employees and employers. 

Decision-making

The role of a human resources professional frequently involves making judgment calls regarding company policy. It is the job of the human resources department to listen to complaints and to determine if any action is necessary. The ability to collect and interpret information and then make fair decisions based on facts is a crucial skill for human resources professionals.

How to improve human resources skills

Here are some tips for improving your human resources skills:

1. First, use your resources

Consider attending a seminar or reading a book that teaches human resources skills. Taking advice from experts and skilled industry professionals is an effective way to continue learning while developing your career. 

2. Then, find a mentor

Seek out a mentor who has shown exceptional human resources skills. Ask them for advice or the opportunity to job shadow them. Watching someone else use these skills efficiently can help you determine where and how you still need to grow.

3. Lastly, get to know your team

Many human resources skills rely on your ability to communicate interpersonally with your coworkers and employer. Seek out opportunities to get to your team and understand their personalities. As you learn more about them, you gain the insight you need to better help them.