Human resource career field - Research Paper Example

A HR Generalist is one who is in overall charge of the Human Resource activities for a particular division or unit. A HR Generalist is expected to handle the end-end activities involved with running the HR function for that unit. He or She is expected to get into the nuts and bolts of the various activities that comprise the HR function. For instance, a HR generalist is often called upon to evaluate potential employees for determining the fit between the applicant and the job he or she is expected to perform.

Similarly the HR generalist is also expected to perform the role of an evaluator during the appraisal cycle. Hence, a HR generalist has to perform daily tasks such as keeping track of the various activities in the HR department as well as monthly reporting and annual or semi-annual participation in the appraisals and other tasks. The dimensions of the HR generalist job that interest me are to do with the sense of being in charge of the HR function and the ringside view that the job offers in terms of participating in the recruitment, training and performance evaluation of the employees.

The most exciting thing about the HR generalist job is that one can get involved with the various activities of the HR function and get a chance to apply some of the theoretical knowledge gained during the education and also get a chance to hone one’s skills by practising the art of HR management. The dimension of the HR generalist’s job that does not interest me is the rather generic nature of the job when compared to the specialist role that has a more direct and deep involvement. The nature of the HR generalist job is such that it requires the person to be knowledgeable about the various activities that are typically performed during the conduct of the job.

Hence, I would be interested in playing the role of an observer cum evaluator that is part of the HR generalist’s job. Further, what interests me about the HR generalist’s role is that the job entails hands on involvement for certain aspects and an indirect involvement for other aspects. The functions of recruitment and performance evaluation are some of the functions that I perform well. The functions that I need additional training are the training and development function. The recruitment and training functions interest me a lot and I am confident that I can perform well in these functions.

I have a natural affinity towards recruitment and performance evaluation activities since I have devoted considerable time towards learning the appropriate theory in these functions. On the other hand, the training and development function is an area where I have not devoted much attention during my education and hence, this is something in which I need additional training. I would also be able to perform the role of the training specialist by being trained. Without intending a pun, suffice to say that I need training on how to train others.

References Profile of a HR Generalist. 6 Oct 2009. 22 Sep 2010 .