Get hired to hire! How? Create the perfect HR manager resume with our top tips, examples, and templates. Being in charge of a department that is seen as a backbone of any organization brings certainly a lot of responsibilities. Our guide will help you present them in the best light and take the first step toward landing that dream job.

Senior Engagement Manager Resume Sample

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Hired by: DocuSign

Human Resource Manager Resume Sample [DE]

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Hired by: Porsche Holding

Diversity Manager Resume Example

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Hired by: Workday

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Keep reading and learn how to present your solid skill-set and achievements in an amazing resume:

• Navigate handy HR manager resume examples
• Choose the best format for your HR manager resume
• Craft a compelling resume summary or objective
• Select the most relevant HR manager skills for your CV
• Fill your HR manager work experience section with achievements 
• Use powerful action verbs throughout your resume
• Make your resume education section sparkle
• Add extra sections that best fit your HR manager resume
• Avoid common mistakes in a resume
• Pair your HR manager resume with a relevant cover letter
• Learn about the average salary and job outlook for HR managers
• Find the best job search resources for HR managers

HR manager resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• Strong profile summary: The profile section effectively highlights candidate's dedication and track record in HR management. It also mentions key skills such as exceptional communication abilities and handling high-pressure environments, which are crucial in HR roles.
• Relevant work experience: The work experience section lists job titles and companies that are pertinent to HR management. Each role includes specific responsibilities and accomplishments that are relevant to the field.

What could be improved?

• Relevance of education: The education section includes too much detail about unrelated fields, particularly the Economics and Business Administration degree and the High School Diploma. Streamlining this section to focus on HR-related education would add more value.
• Lack of quantifiable details: The work experience section could benefit from including more quantifiable achievements. For example, specifying percentages or numerical impacts would provide clearer evidence of her contributions, such as "increased productivity by 25%."

Diversity manager resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• High academic achievements: The education section showcases a strong academic background in Human Resources Management, emphasizing a high GPA and involvement in relevant clubs and societies. This indicates the candidate’s dedication and well-rounded skills in the field.
• Comprehensive skill set: The skills section is thorough, covering languages, computer skills, and essential interpersonal abilities. This demonstrates the candidate's versatility and readiness for various challenges in a diversity manager role, showing they are well-equipped for the job.

What could be improved?

• Profile statement specificity: While the profile summary is compelling, it could be more specific about the candidate’s unique strengths or certifications in diversity management. Mentioning any specific diversity tools or methodologies they excel in would add depth and specificity.
• Detail in volunteering: Adding more detail to the volunteering experience, such as specific projects or initiatives led as a Class Representative, would provide more context and relevance.

Recruiting manager resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• Relevant roles: The candidate has held positions that are directly related to HR and recruitment, which is pertinent for the role of Recruiting Manager. This ensures that the experience listed is highly relevant to the job applied for.
• Skills variety: The skills section covers a broad range of competencies, including language skills, computer skills, and interpersonal skills. This variety shows that the candidate is well-rounded and capable of handling diverse aspects of the recruiting manager role.

What could be improved?

• Relevance in work experience details: While the work experience is relevant, some tasks could be more closely tied to recruitment-specific outcomes. Emphasizing achievements like reduced time-to-hire or improved candidate satisfaction would add depth.
• Lack of quantifiable details: The resume could benefit from more quantifiable achievements. For instance, specifying the exact number of hires made, reduction in hiring time, or other measurable impacts would provide clearer evidence of effectiveness.

1. How to properly format your HR manager resume

As a book cover that can sell a book, your resume format can appeal to a hiring manager at first glance.

There are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination. Each has its own merits and is suited to different situations. Here’s how to know which one to choose:

• Chronological resume: This is the go-to for most jobseekers, especially if you have a steady work history. The layout lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent job. It's best for those who have progressed in their career without many gaps. If you've climbed the HR ladder smoothly, with increasing responsibilities and clear achievements, this format makes it easy for employers to see your growth.
• Functional resume: This format puts skills center stage. Instead of detailing your job history, you organize your resume by major skill sets. It's ideal for career changers or those with gaps in employment. If you’ve taken time off or switched industries but have a solid skill set, highlighting your abilities first can put the right foot forward.
• Combination resume: A bit of both worlds, the combination format offers the best of the chronological and functional formats. It allows you to highlight both your skills and your work history. This format is great if you have a robust skill set with relevant experience but also want to show a progression in your career. It’s the format to use when you want to maximize every strength you have.

All in all, choosing the right format for your HR manager resume depends on your career story. Make sure it’s told in the best way possible. After all, first impressions are everything.

Pick your preferred template and make your resume shine.

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2. How to write a compelling professional summary for your HR manager resume

You know what an HR manager role brings with it when it comes to deciding whom to hire. What type of professional summary or resume objective would you like to see? It would surely be the one that is relevant, easy to read, captivating and involving quantified achievements.

The resume summary or objective sits at the top of your resume, giving potential employers a quick snapshot of your qualifications. Choosing between a summary and an objective depends on your experience and career stage.

Resume objective

Use a resume objective if you're an entry-level candidate or switching careers. It states your career goals and how they align with the role you’re applying for.

Key elements:

• What role you're seeking
• Relevant skills or experiences
• Career goals related to the position

So, why is it bad? This objective is too vague and self-centered. It doesn’t specify what skills or experiences the candidate brings to the table, nor does it indicate how these align with the employer's needs. Such lack of specificity can make you appear uninterested in the company and more focused on personal gains.

Why is it effective? This objective is specific and relevant. It emphasizes the candidate’s academic credentials and practical experience. It aligns the candidate’s skills with the company’s needs, demonstrating a clear fit and a commitment to contributing to the organization’s goals.

Resume summary

Use a resume summary if you have several years of experience. It highlights your most valuable skills and achievements relevant to the role.

Key elements:

• Number of years of experience
• Key skills and areas of expertise
• Notable achievements or contributions

Why does it fall short? This summary is overly general and lacks depth. It fails to highlight specific skills or achievements, making it difficult for employers to gauge the candidate’s true value. The term "HR tasks" is nonspecific and doesn’t clarify responsibilities or successes.

Why does it work? This summary is detailed and specific. It states the number of years of relevant experience and pinpoints key areas of expertise. Additionally, it includes quantifiable achievements, showcasing the candidate’s impact and the value they can bring to an organization. This level of detail helps employers quickly grasp the candidate’s qualifications and potential contributions.

Crafting a strong resume summary or objective is essential for making a strong first impression as an HR manager. Whether you choose a summary or an objective, make sure it’s specific, relevant, and demonstrates how you can add value to the organization. Remember, clarity and relevance are your best allies in capturing the hiring manager’s attention.

3. How to effectively craft your HR manager skill-set resume section

There is undoubtedly a variety of skills that you need as an HR Manager. To make sure you mention first the ones that your future employer is looking for, refer back to the job posting and highlight the ones that match your skills.

You may soon discover that such competencies as communication, empathy or organization will almost certainly be required.

Besides highlighting your soft skills, remember to embrace technology. It's vital to be familiar with HR software, helping you manage payroll, attendance, benefits management or vacation requests.

Remember, by aligning your highlighted skills with the job posting, you increase the chances of capturing your future employer's attention. Remember to balance both soft and hard skills, showcasing your interpersonal abilities alongside your technical proficiency. This holistic approach ensures your resume not only stands out but effectively communicates your full range of competencies.

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4. How to best describe your HR work experience

To describe your previous roles using the most relevant duties and accomplishments, just imagine all your responsibilities you will have in the HR manager job you are applying for.

Well, you actually don't need imagination for this one. All you need is in the job posting. Read through what will be expected from you, and tailor your work experience section accordingly.

The following tips may be of help:

• Mention only the most relevant and significant responsibilities you handled
• Keep the number of bullet points moderately low, so that you do not overbear the hiring manager with unnecessary information
• Measure your success and quantify your achievements
• Use strong verbs such as enhance, increment, stimulate, spearhead, mentor, develop, escalate, etc.

Why is it wrong? This example is too generic and lacks specificity. It does not highlight any significant accomplishments or use metrics. Responsibilities are listed in a vague manner without showcasing any actual impact or results.

Why is it strong? This example is detailed and specific. It quantifies achievements, making the candidate's impact clear. The use of strong action verbs and metrics provides a vivid picture of the candidate's contributions and value to the company.

But what if you're a fresh graduate? If you're new to the job world, here are some handy tips for you:

• Emphasize any internship experience and relevant coursework
• Highlight specific projects or responsibilities that align with the job you're applying for
• Include volunteer and extracurricular activities
• Align any part-time jobs or internships to the skills and responsibilities listed in the job posting

All in all, when describing your HR work experience, tailor it to match the job you're applying for by highlighting relevant responsibilities and quantifiable achievements. By doing so, you ensure your resume speaks directly to the needs of the employer, making you a compelling candidate for the HR manager role you’re targeting.

5. How to use powerful action verbs in your resume

Action words, also known as power verbs, are crucial in making your resume dynamic and impactful. They convey your achievements and responsibilities in a compelling way, helping your resume stand out to both hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

Let's dive into why they're important:

• Catch the reader’s attention: Action words create a stronger impression of your abilities and achievements, making your resume more interesting to read.
• Convey accomplishments clearly: They highlight your specific contributions and paint a clear picture of your role in achieving results.
• Improve ATS compatibility: Many companies use ATS to screen resumes. Including strong action words that match the job posting's keywords can improve your chances of getting through the initial screening process.

Remember, using strong action words in your HR manager resume is vital for making a compelling case to both hiring managers and ATS. Carefully selected action words help you paint a vivid picture of your contributions and capabilities, making it clear why you're the right candidate for the job. So choose your verbs wisely, and let them tell your story effectively.

6. How to make your HR manager education section sparkle

Listing your education on your HR manager resume is essential, regardless of whether your degree is directly related to Human Resources. This section provides a foundation of your qualifications and can highlight various skills and knowledge that are transferable to an HR role.

Why is this section important?

• Demonstrates foundational knowledge: Even if your degree isn’t HR-specific, it shows you have a robust educational background.
• Showcases transferable skills: Education often includes courses and projects that build skills applicable to HR, such as communication, organization, and critical thinking.
• Supports career growth: An HR-focused degree will solidify your expertise and enhance your credibility.

For someone whose degree is not directly related to HR but still holds invaluable knowledge, it’s important to highlight courses and experiences that developed skills transferable to HR:

Why does it work? This example highlights relevant courses and academic achievements that are transferable to an HR role, even if the degree isn’t specifically in HR.

Why does it hit the mark? This example is directly relevant, highlighting something extra besides the relevant degree — specialized achievements in HR. It clearly demonstrates the candidate’s preparedness for an HR manager role.

Listing your education on your HR manager resume is crucial, whether your degree is in a related field or not. By including relevant courses, academic achievements, and projects, you can showcase your foundational knowledge and transferable skills. This not only demonstrates your qualifications but also aligns your educational background with the needs of a potential employer, making you a more compelling candidate.

Personnel Manager Resume Example

Executive Recruiter Resume Example

Diversity Manager Resume Sample

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7. How to choose the best-fitting additional sections for your resume

When it comes to adding those extra touches to your resume, consider including anything that reflects your character traits, skills, and expertise relevant to the job. These sections can set you apart and provide a fuller picture of your qualifications.

Additional sections to consider:

• Certifications
• Awards
• Language Skills
• Interests
• Volunteering Activities
• Testimonials from Employees