Specializing vs. Generalizing in HR: Which Path Fits Your Career Goals?

Specialization in Human Resources

Many subdivisions form the field of human resources, each backed by a broad set of employment regulations, legislation, good practices, and policies. Becoming an expert in any of these functions requires time and significant training, and HR managers can (and should) specialize exclusively in an area determined by the length of their careers.

Generalist Approach in Human Resources

Other human resources professionals are required to develop a generalist vision of all human resources functions and work on a variety of projects in multiple areas of human resources.

Generalist vs. Human Resources Manager: Understanding the Distinctions

In the realm of human resources, there exist two key roles - the Human Resources Generalist and the Human Resources Manager. Each role has its unique set of responsibilities and focuses within the HR field.

👩‍💼 Human Resources Generalist:
- Role: Involved in a wide array of HR functions and divisions, the generalist possesses knowledge across various HR areas.
- Responsibilities: From negotiating benefits to determining FLSA classifications, the generalist is versatile in handling HR tasks.
- Typical Activities: Handling health benefits, FLSA classifications, recruitment, medical leave inquiries, and participating in unemployment insurance hearings.

👨‍💼 Human Resources Manager:
- Role: Specialized HR managers have in-depth knowledge in specific HR functions.
- Responsibilities: They take on a more analytical role, leveraging their expertise in labor laws, best practices, and benchmarking.
- Key Functions: Supervising specific divisions like compensation, labor relations, investigations, training, and benefits.

🧖 Organizational Hierarchy:
- Large Organizations: Generalists are at both ends of the HR hierarchy, from entry-level administrative roles to executive generalists overseeing all HR divisions. Specialized managers fill the middle.
- Small Organizations: HR managers often act as the sole HR personnel, necessitating a generalist approach to cover all HR functions effectively.

🤞 General Manager of Human Resources:
- Synergy: While generalists and specialized managers differ, senior HR managers need a broad understanding of all HR areas for effective supervision.
- Balance: While having a specialization preference, a manager's generalist knowledge ensures competence in overseeing any HR function.

In conclusion, the distinction between a Human Resources Generalist and a Human Resources Manager lies in the breadth of their knowledge and the depth of their specialization within the HR domain. Both roles are integral to ensuring smooth HR operations within organizations, with generalists offering versatility and managers providing expertise in specific HR functions.