How to Become an Human Resources (HR) Manager: Duties, Salary and Skills

published on
Jul 2, 2024
4 Min REad
Table of Content

Are you eager to launch your career as an HR manager in India? With the growing importance of human resources in various industries, this field is offering exciting opportunities for fresh graduates and young professionals like you.

In this article, we will guide you through the qualifications, skills, job options, salary scales, and upskilling programmes that can help you become a successful HR manager.

Who is an HR Manager?

An HR manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the human resources department of an organisation. They are responsible for recruiting, hiring, and training employees.

HR managers ensure compliance with labour laws and regulations, handle employee relations issues, and manage compensation and benefits programmes. They develop policies and procedures that promote a positive work environment while ensuring employees are productive and meet organisational goals.

Job Roles and Responsibility

As an HR manager, your job responsibilities include:

  • Recruitment of new employees, which involves creating job descriptions
  • Posting job ads on online platforms or newspapers
  • Screening resumes
  • Scheduling interviews and conducting interviews with potential candidates
  • Checking references
  • Making salary offers to chosen candidates
  • Issuing employment contracts or letters of offer

You may also train new hires in company policies, conduct performance evaluations, handle employee grievances, or take disciplinary action when necessary.

Skills required to succeed as an HR manager

Essential competencies are required to succeed as an HR manager, including strong communication skills, good leadership ability, and problem-solving and analytical thinking capabilities.

You will also need to be able to work well under pressure and manage multiple tasks efficiently while maintaining a positive attitude.

As an HR manager, you will often be mediating between employees and management, so having excellent interpersonal skills is crucial. You should be able to listen actively, express yourself clearly and concisely, and build trust with both parties.

Career Growth for an HR Manager

Human resources management is an important aspect of every industry, increasing the demand for HR managers across different sectors.

The most common HR manager roles include:

  • HR Generalist: responsible for various aspects of human resources management, including employee relations, training and development, and recruitment.
  • Recruitment Manager: responsible for overseeing the hiring process from start to finish.
  • Training and Development Manager: focus on employee growth and development. 

Industries that require competent HR managers

  • IT/ITeS
  • Manufacturing
  • Banking and Financial Services

Salary Structure for HR Managers in India

The salary scale for an HR manager in India depends on several factors, such as company size, industry type, experience level, location, etc. However, as per payscale.com data from July 2021, the average salary range for an HR manager in India is between ₹3-20 lakhs per year.

To give more clarity about salary scales, here's a look at the average salaries of human resource managers in India.

Experience Level

Salary Range

Salary Range

₹2 lakh– ₹7.4 lakh

1-4 years

₹2.5 lakh – ₹8.3 lakh

5-9 years

₹3.5 lakh – ₹10lakh

₹3.5 lakh – ₹10lakh

₹5.9 lakh – ₹20lakh

20 years or more

₹9.4lakh – ₹30lakh

Education and Certifications for HR Managers

While a bachelor's degree in Human Resources Management or any related field is sufficient, many companies prefer candidates with a master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) with a specialisation in Human Resources Management or a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management (PGDHRM).

Apart from degrees, certain certifications can increase your chances of being hired as an HR manager. The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification offered by HRCI is one such certification that showcases your expertise in the field of HR practises, policies, and procedures. Another popular certification is the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), which covers areas like talent acquisition, development, and retention.

Upskilling Opportunities for HR Managers in India

Upskilling plays a critical role in keeping up with the latest HR trends and practises. There are various upskilling courses and certifications available for HR professionals, including online programmes that can be pursued while working.

  • One such course is the HR Analytics course, which provides an understanding of how to use analytics to measure HR performance and improve overall organisational effectiveness.
  • Another popular upskilling course is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, which equips HR professionals with tools to create inclusive workplaces.

Here are some other relevant courses for upskilling:

  • Performance Management
  • Employment Law
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Talent Acquisition and Retention

Finally, WIZR brings you the additional advantage of financing options to help you pursue these certification courses without any financial burden. Taking up these certification courses will expand your skill set, keep you updated with the latest industry trends, and increase your chances of getting hired.

Remember to network extensively, seek mentorship, and stay abreast of industry trends to succeed in your role as an HR manager.

FAQs

1. Is HR job stressful in India?

Yes, an HR job can be stressful due to long working hours, tight deadlines, and handling sensitive employee issues.

2. What is the highest position for an HR manager?

The highest position for an HR Manager is typically the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), who oversees all aspects of human resources management within an organisation.

3. Who is the father of HR?

Dr Elton Mayo is commonly regarded as the father of human resources due to his research on worker motivation and behaviour at the Hawthorne Works plant in Chicago during the 1920s and 1930s.

4. Is HR suitable for introverts?

Yes, HR can be suitable for introverts as it involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work such as analyzing data, creating policies, and developing strategies. However, certain roles like recruiting and employee engagement may require more extroverted skills.

 

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