Whether you’re considering a business degree, already studying towards one or contemplating a career change, human resources (HR) offers an array of job opportunities. You’ll find HR professionals in smaller organisations all the way to huge corporations. We explore some of the essential skills you’ll need to work in HR and how they can help support staff and change a company for the better.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 01 May 2025.
There are many roles within HR and the work you’ll carry out day to day can differ significantly between organisations. However, there are some skills you’ll need to hone no matter what role you undertake.
Communication skills
Strong communication skills are an essential quality for any HR professional. Depending on your role you may be required to carry out interviews, create and deliver training or navigate difficult conversations with employees. Your ability to listen and communicate clearly could make all the difference. Different scenarios will call for different strategies.
Your written communication is equally important as you may be required to write training documents, contracts and company policies – all of which need keen attention to detail.
Emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand and manage your emotions – both your own and those of others. HR is about people and demonstrating emotional intelligence is crucial. You’ll need to manage your interactions thoughtfully and with empathy to help maintain a positive workplace culture and support employee wellbeing.
Adaptability
With much of your focus dedicated to the people in an organisation it can be easy to overlook the operational side of a business. As an HR professional it’s important you stay up to date with the sector in which your employer operates. No matter if it’s industry developments, amendments to employment law or a new company policy, you’ll need to be adaptable and open to changes. Follow both HR and sector specific news to stay up to date with the latest developments.
Organisational skills
Attention to detail and strong organisational skills are essential in most business environments. Within an HR role you could be responsible for managing all kinds of documents and information – some of it sensitive to the people you work with. Having a strong working knowledge of general office tools, such as Microsoft programs, and dedicated HR Information systems (HRIS) will stand you in good stead when it comes to finding employment in the sector.
Critical thinking
Throughout your career you’ll encounter problems and challenges, and critical thinking and decision making are vital skills you’ll need in order to suggest effective solutions and overcome them.
Whilst the most successful HR departments are those that not only respond to challenges but actively work to prevent them, some problems are unforeseeable. How you respond can have a huge impact on your fellow employees and the company as a whole.
Equality, diversity and Inclusion
Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are essential in effective HR management. EDI initiatives can help foster an environment where employees feel valued, respected and empowered. Understanding different cultures, experiences and perspectives is essential as an HR professional. You’ll play an important part in embedding and championing EDI, and by doing so you’ll help contribute to the success of your organisation.
Understand employment law
Understanding employment law is crucial for HR professionals. You’ll need to consider things such as contracts, dismissals, pay, employment rights and health and safety. Knowledge of legal requirements can protect both the company and its employees.
Though tackling employment law might feel a little intimidating at first, many degrees will have optional modules on the topic. You’ll even find specialised postgraduate courses in this area. For instance, we offer an MSc in Human Resources with Employment Law if you’re looking to further enhance your skills in this area.
Corporate social responsibility
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to a company’s commitment to operate ethically and improve society and the environment. HR departments may lead on initiatives to support an organisation’s CSR commitments, so understanding such goals – and how they can be achieved – could give you a competitive edge when looking for employment.
More and more businesses are reliant on HR professionals who can demonstrate the skills we’ve touched on above. With these skills, and a commitment to people, you can help make changes which not only positively impact your fellow employees but ultimately help shape a company.
If you’re a graduate looking to move into HR and want to enhance your employability our MSc in Leadership and Human Resource Management is a great way to boost your knowledge and skills.
