frequently asked questions.
-
what does HR do?
Human resources (HR) is the part of an organisation that deals with the needs and concerns of its employees. It is the role of HR professionals to manage the hiring of new employees, ensure they have what they need to succeed in their roles and analyse their ongoing performance during their employment with the organisation. The HR department of an organisation also handles employee relations, including resolving disputes and addressing concerns raised by staff. At its core, human resources plays an essential role in creating a positive and productive work environment for everyone.
-
what is the role of HR?
The role of an HR worker is to support the workforce and ensure the organisation runs smoothly by managing people-related processes. Some key HR responsibilities include:
-
recruiting new employees, including screening, interviewing and onboarding
-
dealing with employee concerns and disputes to ensure a safe and comfortable workplace
-
organising training programmes to support staff development, especially where upskilling is needed
-
overseeing employee performance and providing regular, constructive feedback to support growth
-
managing all aspects of employee compensation, including salaries, benefits, insurance, pensions and incentive programmes
-
developing and updating workplace policies to ensure the organisation complies with current laws and industry regulations
-
maintaining accurate, up-to-date employee records and ensuring they are securely stored and accessible to authorised HR staff
-
-
is HR a good career?
Working in human resources is a much-in-demand career across the UK and can be rewarding, both in terms of salary and job satisfaction. There are plenty of opportunities for growth in the role, and some organisations also offer the option of remote HR jobs. Ultimately, an HR role is a great opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the workplace and help others achieve their goals. It also provides a range of daily responsibilities, including recruitment and training, conflict resolution and strategic planning.
-
how to get a job in HR?
You can get a job in HR by gaining relevant qualifications, building experience and applying through job boards like Randstad. You’ll need strong communication skills, good organisation and a proactive approach to identifying and solving potential workplace issues. A degree in a related field, such as business, psychology or human resources, is usually required to advance your career in the HR sector. Tailor your CV to highlight your skills and any experience in areas like recruitment, training or conflict resolution. Once ready, create an account with Randstad, submit your CV and check the jobs board for current HR job openings.
-
what does an HR manager do?
An HR manager is responsible for overseeing the key functions and daily operations of the HR department and its team. They manage the recruitment process to ensure roles are filled with the right candidates, define standard employee schedules, responsibilities and compensation, and maintain compliance with health and safety regulations. HR managers also support employee relations and help shape workplace policies that align with the goals of the organisation.
-
how to become an HR manager?
To become an HR manager, you typically need a degree in human resources, business or a related field, along with several years of experience in HR roles. Strong leadership, communication and problem-solving skills are also essential for success as an HR manager. When applying for an HR management position, make sure to carefully review the job description and tailor your CV to highlight relevant experience, such as managing HR processes, supporting employee relations or leading recruitment efforts. It also helps to familiarise yourself with the specific organisation and its policies to show that you’re ready to take on a strategic leadership role.
-
how much do HR jobs pay?
In the UK, HR job salaries typically range from £15,000 to £50,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the size or type of organisation. Entry-level roles such as HR assistants tend to earn toward the lower end of the scale, while experienced professionals and specialists can earn significantly more. Most HR workers earn around £22,000 on average, while HR managers attract higher salaries of around £42,000 per annum. Senior HR executives in larger companies may earn even more, particularly in London and other high-demand regions.
-
what qualifications do you need to work in HR in the UK?
In the UK, HR qualifications typically begin with at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a field such as psychology, business or HR management. For those aiming to progress in the profession, a qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) is highly valued and often required for senior-level HR roles. Alternatively, consider completing an apprenticeship programme. These are a practical way to land an entry-level HR job, offering hands-on experience alongside structured training.
a guide to HR jobs:
Human Resources (HR) jobs are the strategic backbone of any modern organisation, focusing on the most valuable asset: its people. This sector is critical for business success, managing everything from legal compliance and talent acquisition to culture and employee development. The evolving role of HR means that professionals today are true business partners, aligning people strategy with organisational goals. Whether you are looking for entry-level HR jobs or a senior leadership position, we offer a wide range of HR vacancies to advance your career.
Popular Roles & Specialisms in HR
The HR field offers immense diversity, allowing professionals to specialise or take on a broad generalist role. Your HR career progression may take you through several distinct areas:
- HR Administrator / HR Assistant: Often the entry point to the profession, the HR administrator manages vital day-to-day HR systems and processes. Their duties are crucial for the smooth running of the department, supporting administrative tasks related to the entire employee lifecycle.
- HR Generalist: This mid-level role covers a broad range of operational tasks, including employee onboarding, policy implementation, and acting as the first point of contact for staff queries.
- HR Business Partner (HRBP): A senior and strategic position that works directly with leadership teams to align HR strategy with core business objectives, focusing on organisational development, change management, and long-term people planning.
- HR Manager: This hands-on management role involves overseeing the daily operations of the department, ensuring policies are adhered to, managing employee relations cases, and driving performance management. This position often acts as a bridge between the strategic aims of the HRBP and the administrative team.
Essential Skills and Qualifications for HR
To succeed in any HR job, you need a blend of ethical judgement, excellent people skills, and technical knowledge of employment law.
- Qualifications: While experience is paramount, the gold standard for career progression is a professional qualification from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Achieving a CIPD qualification, such as a Level 5 Diploma or a Level 7 Advanced Diploma, is key to advancing to senior HR manager roles and demonstrating mastery of the discipline.
- Essential Skills: HR professionals must possess outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to manage conflict and build trust. Ethical judgement and discretion are paramount when handling confidential employee data. Finally, a strong business acumen is required, especially for strategic roles like HR Business Partner, to ensure people policies support financial and operational goals.
HR Career Progression & Outlook
The HR career progression pathway is clear and rewarding. Many careers begin as an HR assistant or administrator before moving into an HR Generalist or HR Advisor role. From there, professionals often specialise or move into management, with the ultimate goal being HR director jobs or Chief People Officer positions. For example, a HR Manager role is a natural stepping stone to more senior strategic posts, allowing you to build management and people leadership experience. The job market remains strong, with high demand for professionals who can use data and technology to drive efficiency. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning (especially through the CIPD) is the most reliable way to accelerate your career.
latest articles
see all articles-
11 November 2025the best nursing specialisms in 2025 and beyond.
-
11 November 2025the care professional's path to leadership.
-
28 October 2025from burnout to balance: how accountants can thrive through busy season.
-
28 October 2025why today’s finance leaders need a mindset, not just a title.
-
17 October 2025F&A unpacked: a deeper dive into Q3 2025's defining trends.
-
14 October 2025nail your F&A interview: how to prepare for questions about AI, data, and transformation.