Human Resources is the department of an organization that oversees all aspects related to the management and development of employees. Several significant areas fall under the umbrella of human resources, such as labor and employee relations, payroll, employee benefits, compensation, salary administration, organizational development, employee onboarding, and recruiting and staffing. HR compliance is another essential function of human resources within organizations, including compliance with affirmative action, anti-discrimination, and equal employment laws. HR professionals can work as generalists applying a broad knowledge of HR-related functions or specialists specializing in a specific HR area, such as benefits and compensation. Examples of HR-related positions include HR advisor, training development specialist, compensation manager, recruiter, personnel analyst, HR coordinator, and HR generalist.

Human resources support human capital, which is one of the most vital aspects of an organization. HR departments are responsible for administering policies and programs that enhance productivity, effectiveness, and morale. It is an essential function that addresses employee concerns, ensures legal compliance with employment-related laws, helps acquire new hires and retain employees, and manages the separation and termination process. HR professionals provide expert advice while partnering with senior leadership for strategic planning and developing positive employee-employer relationships and workplace culture. They also administer crucial employee policies related to discipline, leaves of absence, vacation, paid time off, onboarding, hiring, and succession planning.

Human resources professionals frequently deal with employees at all levels within an organization. They also provide advice and guidance to managers and senior leaders. Therefore, strong interpersonal and communication skills support success as an HR professional. Individuals who enjoy working with people make a good fit for client-facing HR positions, such as HR advisor and HR generalist. Those who excel in data and analytics fit well in compensation or benefits roles. According to the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM), additional competencies that support individuals in securing a job in HR include critical evaluation, relationship management, ethical practice, leadership, cultural effectiveness, consultation, and business acumen.