What skills do I need for HR assistant jobs?

Looking at human resources assistant jobs and jobs descriptions? Are you up to using basic office software and such? How do you communicate with others? In this article, find out if you have what it takes to be a human resources administrator.

Basic computing skills

Can you use office software programmes? As a human resources (HR) assistant, are you familiar with using office software programmes? The most commonly used ones are the word processor and spreadsheet programme. Other software which are relatively less used but useful to know are project management and presentation programmes. For example, the former is common in construction companies while the latter, sales companies or departments. Synchronising documentation You are certainly used to email, but is the office staff connected via an internal network? You do not need to get into its technical aspect of course, but you should be able to use it as intended.
What about connectivity outside the office? Perhaps the company uses a software such as Microsoft Groove to keep the staff in sync of any documentation changes, in real-time. This is usually more for (sales) staff who travel often but it is good for you to be up-to-date. Faxing and photo-stating Whether you are in HR or not, basic office skills such as faxing and photo-stating are easy quick to learn. It does not take long to get efficient at such simple tasks. You may want to follow up with a phone call after faxing, to confirm receipt. It may be possible to check through the fax machine the list of numbers faxed to and when (times and dates).

Establishing rapport with others

As a HR administration assistant, a staff may consult you about his or her remaining leave, salary and allowance, claims, staff perks, problems with another staff, etc. You may have to find out the remaining number of days the staff is allowed as annual leave for example. What is the maximum amount claimable per year for dental and medical checks, if any? Is the staff covered by an insurance policy? When is the office trip due and where to? HR assistant jobs are not tough but you can get busy quickly. Remember that good communication skills and interpersonal relationships are part and parcel of HR assistant job descriptions.