SHRM HR Manager Skills

By LeadLake Team   /   Job Category   /   2026
Back to SHRM HR Manager Job Description

Skills

A human resource (HR) manager is a professional in the field of HR who is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a HR department. Their areas of focus include talent recruitment, payroll, benefits, employee satisfaction, and compliance. Some of the typical duties of HR managers include developing and enforcing corporate policies and procedures.

When it comes to being a good HR manager, there are certain skills and traits that are important to possess. These include effective communication, problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and a strong understanding of HR principles and practices. Being able to adapt to change, being detail-oriented, and having strong interpersonal skills are also crucial for success in this role.

How do I become a good HR manager?

It is important for HR managers to possess a comprehensive knowledge of human resources terminology, methods, and best practices. Pursuing a degree, such as an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in human resource management, can greatly enhance one's understanding in this field. Alternatively, there are online courses and organizations that offer HR certificates as well.

In order to be a competent HR manager, certain skills and traits are essential. Indeed.com provides a list of 15 skills and traits that contribute to being a good HR manager.

Problem Solving

According to a report by the International Association of Administrative Professionals, OfficeTeam and HR.com, 67 percent of HR managers stated that they would be willing to hire a candidate with strong soft skills, even if they lacked technical abilities. In contrast, only 9 percent of HR managers said they would hire someone with strong technical credentials but weak soft skills.

What HR skills can leaders and professionals benefit from learning?

One HR skill that leaders and professionals should prioritize is practicing compassion and effectively interacting with staff during difficult situations. While leaders may already excel in managing high-performing employees, developing this skill can greatly benefit their overall leadership abilities.

What soft skills do HR professionals need?

In the eyes of HR professionals and hiring managers, problem solving, time management, and adapting to change are considered to be the most essential soft skills.

The team was facing difficulties caused by a worker who engaged in gossiping, leading to issues among team members.

Both the first-time manager and the group's supervisor were unsure about the appropriate approach to address the behavior that was causing mistrust among colleagues.

Managers can play a crucial role in helping employees develop and improve their critical soft skills.

What are examples of SHRM programs & policies?

One common example of strategic human resource management (SHRM) is performance management. This involves implementing systems to monitor and enhance employee performance.

Another example is training and development. Through this, organizations identify employees' development needs and offer training and resources to assist them in enhancing their skills.

These are just a few examples of the numerous SHRM programs and policies that organizations can implement to effectively manage their human resources.

Effective Communication

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has developed an HR competency model, which serves as a valuable framework for understanding HR competencies. This model includes both technical and behavioral competencies, such as relationship management and ethical practice.

Another important skill for HR professionals to develop is business acumen. It is crucial for HR professionals to have a solid understanding of business strategies and operations in order to effectively support organizational goals and make informed decisions.

These skills can enhance their effectiveness in their roles and contribute to the success of their organizations.

References:

- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) HR Competency Model

- The 7 Skills That HR Professionals Should Be Developing Right Now - SHRM Blog

What skills do human resources professionals need?

It is important to prioritize our time and ensure that it is well-spent. Human resources professionals should consider focusing on seven key skills that are crucial to their field. One way to begin is by familiarizing themselves with the HR competency model provided by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM).

The blog article titled "The 7 Skills That HR Professionals Should Be Developing Right Now" highlights the importance of these skills and suggests that HR professionals should allocate time to honing them. This resource from SHRM is a valuable starting point for individuals looking to build and enhance their expertise in the HR field.

How does HR communicate with employees?

The importance of employee voice is increasingly recognized and HR must leverage two-way communication tools to effectively connect with the team.

One effective strategy is to arrange quarterly "ask me anything" sessions where leaders and employees from different departments come together to engage in open dialogue.

This approach allows HR leaders to drive effective communication and foster a meaningful connection between employees and management.

By creating an open space for dialogue, HR leaders can ensure that the voice of employees is heard and valued, ultimately leading to a more engaged and productive workforce.

Overall, prioritizing effective communication strategies is essential for HR leaders to build a strong and connected team.

How can HR skills improve productivity & effectiveness?

Developing these skills can significantly improve productivity and effectiveness in human resources positions. Whether you are beginning your career in HR or have years of experience, honing these skills will enable you to effectively handle your daily responsibilities and enhance your overall efficiency. The following article provides insights on the most crucial HR skills and offers guidance on how to master them.

Project Management

Having a strong presence in the workplace will be appreciated by employees and will make managers more receptive to your ideas. By being seen as a valuable member of the team instead of just the HR person enforcing policies, you will have the opportunity to address issues before they escalate into larger problems.

Do project managers understand human behavior?

Many project managers today understand that having a thorough understanding of human behavior and the organizational aspects of project management is crucial for effectively managing projects.

The importance of human resource management in project management is recognized by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

What should HR professionals consider when selecting and developing leaders?

When HR professionals are selecting and developing leaders, it is important for them to assess the competencies of the individuals and determine which ones may need further development in order to succeed in a leadership role.

They should aim to match the existing competencies of the individuals with the ones required for effective leadership.

By carefully analyzing and evaluating the competencies of potential leaders, HR professionals can ensure that they are making informed decisions and providing appropriate developmental opportunities.

Tech Adaptation

The HR technology industry is expected to see ongoing growth and development in 2020. This is due to the entry of new players into the market, as well as organizations' increasing reliance on technology to enhance efficiency and productivity. Venture capitalists also continue to be attracted to the potential of HR tech firms.

In summary, industry experts predict that the HR technology industry will experience further expansion in 2020, driven by various factors such as new market entrants, organizations' technology adoption, and investor interest.

What is SHRM partnering with Harvard Business Review?

This article discusses the partnership between SHRM and Harvard Business Review to provide insightful articles on HR topics and strategies. One topic covered is the application of agile principles in talent management, which is no longer limited to the tech industry.

The article highlights the new rules of talent management, emphasizing the adoption of an agile approach by HR professionals. It provides valuable insights into how HR can effectively implement agile practices to attract, develop, and retain top talent in today's dynamic business environment.

The partnership between SHRM and Harvard Business Review aims to equip HR professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the evolving landscape of talent management and drive successful organizational outcomes.

Will HR use technology to monitor remote workers?

Kropp suggests that HR leaders should invest in technology to monitor remote workers, but with a renewed focus. Instead of primarily tracking productivity or keystrokes, the emphasis should shift towards tools that measure potential burnout risks, such as excessive working hours at home.

Are HR professionals aware of the future of automation?

Automation is a ubiquitous presence in various industries, and its influence on human resources is continuously growing. However, it is argued that many HR professionals have only a limited understanding of this emerging trend. It is undeniable that a future characterized by increased automation is on the horizon.

Given this reality, it is crucial for HR to proactively anticipate and adapt to the advancements in automation. Staying ahead of the automation curve is essential for HR professionals to effectively navigate the evolving landscape of workforce management.

Leadership

HR professionals have the ability to impact a company's performance by identifying and cultivating essential leadership skills within the organization. These leadership competencies serve as a valuable tool for effectively selecting, developing, and promoting individuals in leadership roles.

What makes a good HR manager?

HR managers are expected to demonstrate trustworthiness and maintain a high level of integrity in all circumstances. They are responsible for handling personal and sensitive employee information, which requires them to uphold strict confidentiality and security protocols. Organizations rely on the HR team to exhibit honesty and discretion as employees often approach them with sensitive matters.

What skills do HR professionals need to be effective?

Acquiring business acumen and strategic skills is crucial for effective management and leadership at higher levels. HR professionals should consider the changing competencies needed as managers progress into higher leadership roles.

Desired Experience

To determine job opportunities, it is essential to identify employers who are actively hiring. The position of HR manager generally necessitates a bachelor's degree in HR management or relevant experience. Additionally, prior experience within people management teams is often a prerequisite. Aspiring HR managers frequently begin their careers as interns, gradually advancing into positions such as HR coordinator or HR assistant.