Struggling to Answer "Why HR?" in Interviews: Seeking Advice on Career Transition to HR Generalist

Hi all,

I am looking to transition into an HR Generalist role despite having no prior experience in this field. My background includes nearly 5 years of work experience - 3.5 years as an SAP user support Consultant at a Pharma Company and 1.3 years in HR Compensation and Benefits consulting and analytics. I hold an MBA in HR and Marketing.

One of the most challenging questions I encounter during interviews is "Why HR" and "Why HR Generalist." Despite my efforts in contemplation, I struggle to provide a convincing answer to this question. I would greatly appreciate any assistance in crafting a suitable response.

Additionally, I seek advice on whether this shift to HR is the right career move for me.

Thank you.

Dear Member,

The question is: Why HR to HR Generalist? As per your profile, experiences in consultant firms are specific in nature, and your role is confined to a certain area. Whereas, an HR Generalist role allows us to learn many aspects:

- Recruitment
- Personnel
- Payroll administration
- Statutory knowledge
- Arbitration
- Handling grievances
- Men Management
- Organizing
- Appraisals and Administration, with many more to add.

We can say a generalist role in the operational area is wide, and we can become an all-rounder. In my opinion, the Generalist role is a full-fledged job.

Think and discuss with our HR group.

Regards,
Ramesh

Thank you, Ramesh, for your response.

I do know the various fields in HR. I want to understand what the interviewers are looking for when they ask this question. What are the skill sets that one requires to become a good HR Exec who is able to handle the entire gamut of HR activities in an organization. Also, which is the most interesting area in the field of HR and why?

Awaiting responses.

Dear Tan,

Interviewers, prima facie, for a Generalist role, they look for seniority of age, experience, and appearance (approximately 35 years and above). They also consider intra and inter-personal skills, past experiences in industrial exposure, handling arbitration if any, sound and proficient knowledge of personnel administration/statutory requirements, recruitment experience, and overall, they seek any innovative nature in the candidate.

To the best of my knowledge, one should focus on the aspects mentioned above.

Thank you,
Ramesh

Ramesh,

I currently do not have the experience, the exposure, or proficient knowledge of HR activities. I just know that I want to move towards that field. I've always been interested in an HR Generalist role but never got such an opportunity. Can you please guide me on how I should go about it? Will reading some books help? I request other senior members to please help me.

Thanks, Ramesh, for your responses.
Tan

Dear Tan,

Knowledge gain is best for bright prospects. I suggest you read books on the latest trends in HR so that you can develop expertise and command in particular areas. Additionally, try writing a few articles with your own visualizations and thoughts. Presenting these during interviews may help others assess your capabilities.

Over time, consider thinking about a job change and focus on honing your talents. I hope this advice is helpful.

Regards,
Ramesh