What does a Personalman do? – Tasks and work environment
A Personalman works with issues related to personnel and organization and often holds a central role within companies, authorities, or other organizations. The tasks include recruitment, staff development, employment law, work environment initiatives, and supporting managers in personnel matters. It is common for the role to involve responsibility for both strategic and operational HR processes, such as salary setting, skills development, and negotiations with union representatives. The work environment is typically office-based and characterized by a fast pace, where collaboration and communication are crucial for success.
Salary development over time
The salary of a Personalman has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,000 SEK per month, increasing to 47 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 49 900 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 8.5 % over the period. The development is driven by increased demand for qualified HR expertise, changing labor market conditions, and a greater focus on skills development within organizations. The trend indicates that the profession is becoming increasingly valued, reflected in salary levels. Salary gaps between men and women persist, with men generally earning more, but the gap has narrowed somewhat in recent years.
Personalman salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 49 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector)
- Highest salary: 58,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 300 SEK
- Men: 52 900 SEK/month
- Women: 49 100 SEK/month
- Women's salary as a percentage of men's: 93 %
- Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan counties tend to offer higher salaries.
Education and qualifications
To work as a Personalman, a university degree in personnel and work life issues, HR, behavioral sciences, or related fields is generally required. Many employers also seek experience from similar roles and knowledge of employment law and negotiations. Internships or trainee programs during studies are common and can be decisive for employment. Further education and certifications in HR are advantageous for those looking to advance in the profession.
- Formal degree: Bachelor's degree in personnel management, HR, or similar (3 years)
- Certifications: Courses in employment law, salary setting, and leadership
- Internships: Common during studies and often a requirement for employment
- Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Tips: Practical experience through part-time jobs or trainee programs is highly valued
Many Personalmen have specialized in areas such as work environment, recruitment, or employment law, which can lead to greater responsibilities and opportunities to influence the organization strategically. Specialist expertise can also open doors to advisory roles or managerial positions.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as pension schemes, wellness contributions, flexitime, vacation benefits, and sometimes bonuses or performance-based pay are often offered. Access to training, employee support, and the possibility of remote work are also common in many organizations, especially larger companies or within the public sector.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a Personalman is moderate, meaning there are good opportunities for qualified candidates. However, formal education and practical experience are often required to stand out in recruitment. One of the main challenges in the profession is balancing the demands and expectations of different stakeholders, especially in situations involving employment law or organizational restructuring. Rapid changes in the labor market and increased digital competence requirements also demand continuous development. Staying updated on legislation and HR trends is crucial to remain competitive.
Tips for aspiring Personalman
To succeed as a Personalman, it is beneficial to be both communicative and analytical, as the role requires listening, negotiating, and making well-informed decisions. Actively seeking internships or part-time jobs in HR during studies can help build experience and networks. Engagement in student organizations or projects can develop leadership and teamwork skills, highly valued by employers. Curiosity and a willingness to constantly learn new things are important, especially as employment law and HR tools evolve rapidly. Being solution-oriented and resilient helps in mediating conflicts or during busy periods. Finally, developing knowledge of digital HR systems and statistics is advantageous, as these areas are becoming increasingly important.
Key facts about Personalman
- Education level: Bachelor's degree in HR or personnel management
- Work environment: Office-based, often with flexible working hours
- Typical employment: Full-time, in both private and public sectors
- Demand: 751 job openings in May 2024
- Special skills: Employment law, recruitment, digital HR systems
Career paths and future outlook
After three to five years as a Personalman, opportunities often arise to advance to roles such as HR specialist, HR Business Partner, or HR manager. Some choose to specialize further in areas like employment law, work environment, or talent management, which can lead to expert roles or consulting assignments. The forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that job opportunities in the profession are considered moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is balanced, meaning there is neither a significant shortage nor surplus of Personalmen. Continued skills development and experience can improve chances of securing attractive positions and higher salaries.
Common questions about Personalman
- What does a Personalman earn?
- The average salary for a Personalman is 49 900 SEK per month.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, men earn an average of 52 900 SEK and women 49 100 SEK, which means women earn 93 % of men's salaries.
- What education is required to become a Personalman?
- The most common requirement is a bachelor's degree in personnel management, HR, or a similar field.
- What are the future prospects for a Personalman?
- The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
- The highest salary is 58,600 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 40,500 SEK (female, public sector).
- What benefits are common for a Personalman?
- Pension schemes, wellness contributions, flexitime, and the possibility of remote work are common benefits.
- How many job openings are there in the field?
- There are 751 available jobs in the field of Personnel and HR specialists.
