Landing your first job in HR or payroll without any experience might seem like trying to solve a crossword without knowing the clue. Here’s the thing—you probably already have the grid and the hints that you need. Every day, thousands of people successfully transition into HR and payroll roles from an array of backgrounds. Whether you’ve worked in retail, hospitality, customer service, or even taken time off to raise a family, the skills you’ve developed are often exactly what employers are looking for. The truth is, you don’t need to have years of experience. You just need to know how to showcase your transferable skills. Also, you need to have an understanding what these roles actually involve. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to break into these rewarding fields, from understanding what the jobs entail to crafting applications that get noticed, even when you’re starting from zero experience. 

HR and Payroll — Two Sides of the Same Coin 

HR is about managing people, whereas payroll is about compensating them. Both of these roles require trust, organization, and attention to detail. They can be considered two sides of the same coin because of their close working relationship.  

These roles and functions can be blurred in smaller companies, but they are two distinct roles. Think about HR as the architect of the employee experience. The payroll on the other hand is the engineer that makes sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. As a team they create and support everything from compliance to company culture.  

What HR Actually Does (No Jargon) 

When you work in HR you will support people who work for a company from the moment they are hired until the day they leave.  

Let’s go over some day-to-day tasks and responsibilities you can expect as someone who works in HR;  

• You will help hire people for open positions in the company. This will involve writing job descriptions, posting job ads, screening candidates, and organizing interviews. You may even be involved in creating job offers and organizing start dates.    

• Once someone is hired, you will probably help in onboarding and training them. You want to help them feel welcome and integrated with the team. So, you want to help the new hire with paperwork, email accounts, IDs, and explaining company policy. Also, if the role is remote, you may give them access to all the tools that a person may need to do their job.  

• As you work in HR you will also oversee keeping employee records organized. You will need to store contracts, emergency contacts, training certifications and performance reviews. Make sure to handle the information carefully and keep it confidential.  

• HR is also responsible in helping solve employee or workplace issues. Often when employees have concerns related to co-workers, the job itself or management, they often go to HR. As HR you will have to listen, stay neutral and help resolve problems fairly.  

• Another part of your everyday as HR will be managing policies and legal stuff. You will want to make sure that the company follows the law when it comes to things like working hours, holidays, sick leave, discrimination, and health and safety.  

• Finally, as part of the HR team, you will be in charge of employee wellness. HR teams tend to organize wellness programs, surveys, and team building activities. You will help employees feel supported and engaged at work.        

You are person that keeps things running smoothly between the people and the company. If you are organized, a good listener, and genuinely want to help people success – then you are already well on your way to being a great HR employee.  

What Payroll Really Means (It’s More Than Just Math) 

So, let’s be honest when we hear the term payroll, we all associate it with ‘money’, ‘getting paid’ and ‘crunching the numbers.’ It’s so much more than that. Payroll is about making sure employees are paid correctly, on time, and in line with the law.   

Here is a breakdown of what your job would involve when working in payroll:  

• So firstly, you will be collecting the number of hours an employee has worked for the company. Also, you will want to be aware if they took any time off (paid or unpaid) and if they have received any bonuses. Now, for salaried employees you need to just verify that they are still working and paid monthly. Whereas employees that work on an hourly basis, every minute counts.  

• Make sure that each employee is being paid accurately. You will need to calculate how much each employee should be paid. Make sure to include overtime, deductions, commissions, etc. 

• Now, you actually get to pay people and please make sure to do it on time. Once everything is calculated, payroll ensures that money is sent to employees’ bank accounts. This is usually on a set schedule (weekly or monthly). Missing a payday can seriously impact people’s lives, so accuracy and timing are critical. 

• You will also be taking care of taxes, health insurance, pension, and other legal requirements. Also, you will probably oversee creating pay slips and tax forms for the end of the year.  

• Finally, you will need to make sure that every payment is documented and stored. You’ll track pay history, tax filings, holiday balances, and more. You want to make sure everything is organized and secure, in case of audits or employee questions.  

 If you’re someone who double-checks things, likes structure, and takes pride in getting the details right — payroll might be the perfect place to start.  

Why These Roles Are So Valuable (Even at Entry Level) 

When working in HR and payroll, you don’t need to be a manager or specialist to make an impact. An entry level professional in HR and payroll, usually handle the details that keep everything running smoothly.  

There are a number of reasons why entry level roles are so valuable, some of the include:  

1. You help keep the business running  
2. You build trust and protect the company  
3. You will have the opportunity to learn and growth quickly  
4. You will have job security and flexibility. Every company will need HR and payroll, so you don’t have to worry about being ‘out of a job’.   
5. Entry-level HR and payroll roles aren’t “just admin.” They’re steppingstones into meaningful and respected careers.  You can make a real difference from day one.  

Why is it possible to start a career in HR & Payroll without experience?  

There are two main reasons why it is possible to start a career in HR & Payroll without experience. The reality is that career transitions are more common than ever, with recent career transition data showing that 59% of U.S. professionals actively sought new jobs in 2024. One reason being transferable skills matter, and the second reason is there are entry level positions available. 

Transferable Skills Matter 

Many people will assume that in order to have a career in HR & payroll, you need an academic degree. But the truth is you can start from zero because what matters most are your transferable skills.  

HR and Payroll are built on skills that you most likely possess especially if you worked in customer service, retail, hospitality, admin or even did volunteer work.  

Think about it, skills like communication, organization, time management, confidentiality and problem solving were all part of the roles I’ve mentioned above. If you want to strengthen these further, consider developing strong communication skills through specialized training. 

Guess what you need them in HR and payroll as well. Career transition experts identify  these exact abilities as the most valuable transferable skills for HR roles. 

Also, you don’t need to show that you know everything for a company to see your potential. They don’t expect you to be an expert. But what they do like to see, is that you:  

• Are reliable and detail oriented  

• Can learn quickly and handle sensitive tasks professionally  

• Show interest in people, fairness and structure 

If you can demonstrate this throughout the recruitment process, your experience becomes less important.  

Another valuable thing to remember is that the systems of a company can be taught, whereas, attitude cannot. You can learn and be taught various software programs such as HRIS tools while on the job. But personality aspects such as staying calm under pressure, treating employees with respect or staying organized and meeting deadlines. These aren’t things you can easily learn.    

The value of transferable skills in HR cannot be overstated. Sophie Lhoutellier, HR Manager at Badger Maps, emphasizes: ‘If you’re pursuing a career in HR, then you should have great listening skills, empathy and emotional intelligence. I wish more HR applicants would show great listening skills as well as proactivity.’ These are exactly the skills you develop in customer service, retail, and hospitality roles.  

Finally, some companies like to hire people that are from a different background than those who let’s say have an academic degree in HR and payroll. Companies like to have fresh eyes because it gives them a new perspective. You have new ideas and can see past the ‘well we have always done it this way’.   

Entry-level positions available 

Entry level positions are designed for learners. This is great because you don’t need years of experience in HR and payroll to get a position.  There are so many roles build in this field that are specifically created for people with no background in the field. Current employment statistics reveal that entry-level positions in HR and payroll are seeing increased demand as companies recognize the value of fresh perspectives. 

 Here are a few reasons why you can go far even at the entry level in HR and Payroll:  

1. Beginner roles focus on support, not making big decisions or running your own payroll. You will support a team with scheduling interviews, organizing employee documents, updating spreadsheets, etc.    
2. Most companies will train the right people. If you show that you are reliable and trustworthy. Also, you have an interest in HR and payroll. Additionally, if you can show that you have organization and communication skills. Lastly, show that you can handle confidential information professionally. If you have these skills and make it visible during the recruitment process, the company will more than happily teach you the rest.  
3. There are clear entry points with potential for future growth. Some roles that you can look out for in your job hunt include HR assistant, Payroll assistant, HR administrator, People Coordinator, Recruitment or Talent Assistant and Junior Payroll officer. These are careers where many people start from zero experience.  
   Entry-level positions in HR and payroll are designed with beginners in mind. As Charlotte Gallagher, Director at P3 People Management, explains: ‘You have to show an action-oriented CV demonstrating what you did and the results, together with evidence of the impact on the bottom line where appropriate.’ This means companies are more interested in seeing your potential impact than requiring years of direct experience. 
4. Now, are you ready to use your Secret Weapon? Soft Skills. If you have worked in customer service or hospitality, chances are you have the soft skills that you need to work in HR and Payroll. These soft skills are the foundation for both skills.  

What are some actionable steps to get started in HR & Payroll?  

So, we have broken it down to 5 easy actionable steps that you can take starting today to work toward your goal of working HR and Payroll.  

Step 1: Learn the basics – take a course & read industry books 

The first step towards your career in HR and Payroll is to take a course online and read industry books. This will help you gain basic knowledge, insights and trends that will be valuable to you throughout the recruitment process and then your job. 

You can start with topics such as:  

• Intro to HR (recruitment, onboarding, policies) 

• Payroll fundamentals (pay cycles, taxes, deductions) 

• Employment law and compliance 

• HR software and payroll systems (e.g. ADP, BambooHR, Sage) 

Also, you can check out popular industry books like:  

• HR for Beginners by Sharon Armstrong 

• Payroll Accounting by Bernard Bieg & Judith Toland 

• The New HR Leader’s First 100 Days by Alan Collins 

Now, here is the best kept secret and a good place to start:  

The Business Administration Course from Kemp Center is a great option — it covers practical HR and payroll concepts, along with real-world business skills that apply across industries. It’s beginner-friendly and helps you understand how HR and payroll fit into the bigger picture of running a company.                  

Finally, you can pair all this with YouTube videos, HR blogs, or even podcasts — the goal is to speak the language of the industry by the time you’re ready to apply for jobs.  

Step 2: Gain practical experience 

Once you have taken a course, read some books, maybe even listened to a few podcasts, it’s time to gain some practical experience.  Even without formal experience, you can still do things that will help you standout.  

One way you can gain hands-on experience is to volunteer for admin or people-focused roles. You can look for opportunities at non-profits, community groups, or school committees.  

Also, if you are currently working, you can ask your manager to help with tasks such as:  

• Support scheduling or timesheet processes 

• Help with onboarding new staff 

• Sit in on a team meeting with HR 

These experiences will help you develop organizational skills that HR and payroll roles require. For additional support in mastering time management, consider building these skills proactively. 

Another option is to look for an internship or temporary roles such as HR Assistant Internships or Payroll Admin Temp Contracts. This way you gain exposure to systems, documents and internal processes, in just a few short weeks.  

Finally, you can also try to create your own mini projects. You can build your own practice processes. For example, you can draft a mock onboarding checklist. Or you can create a payroll calendar in excel. You can even try your hand at creating a sample HR policy.   

Step 3: Build an HR/Payroll-Focused Resume 

Now that you have gained knowledge and some ways you can apply it, it’s time to create a resume that will get you noticed by hiring managers. Here are some tips to make your resume work:  

1. Start with a strong summary. You can mention your interest in HR and payroll. Also, add your recent course or training (e.g. Kemp Center’s Business Admin course). Finally mention those vital soft skills such as attention to detail, confidentiality, and organization.  
2. Make sure to highlight your transferable skills. Even if your past roles are not related to the field of HR or Payroll, there are still skills you can include in your resume that may appeal to a future employer. For example, scheduling and time tracking or handling confidential information, or customer service.  
3. Make sure that you mention relevant course work and certifications. You can create a section called “Relevant Training” or “Relevant Education” in which you showcasing online courses, the business admin course from Kemp Center, and any other personal projects.  
4. Finally, make sure to include keywords in your resume. Most companies now you as applicant tracking system (ATS) to filter resumes. So, try to use keywords like: onboarding, employee records, payroll processing, compliance, HR administration, time & attendance, confidentiality, and communication.  

Make sure to save your resume in PDF when you send it to potential employers. This way it’s clean and maintains it’s formatting. But also, have a Word document with your resume so that you can edit it at any time.   

Step 4: Network Your Way into opportunities 

Okay, now it’s time to roll up your sleeves and network your way into some opportunities. A great platform to use when trying to network is LinkedIn. Create a profile that will reflect your HR and payroll aspirations. You can optimize your LinkedIn profile with keywords such as ‘“Aspiring HR Assistant | Payroll Admin in Training” 

Another good way to network is to join online communities or forums that are related to HR and payroll. You don’t have to be an expert to join and this way you gain some exposure. Also, you can ask questions, answer questions and stay visible.  

Don’t underestimate the people you already know. Sometimes in your circle of coworkers, friends and family, there may be someone working in HR or finance. You can let them know you are switching careers and that you have the training and some experience. Maybe the will be able to help you out with opportunities or give you more insight.  

Finally, attend events whether there are in person or virtual. Look for HR meetups, webinars, or job fairs. You can ask questions during these sessions or follow up with the speaker on LinkedIn.    

Step 5: Apply Smartly and Widely 

Now you start sending out applications in a smart way and a wide range.  You want to avoid randomly applying, be strategic about it. Of course, you want to cast a wide net, but it should be with intention  

Here are some tips on how to do it:  

• Focus on the right job titles. It’s important to remember that not all entry level jobs are labelled correctly. You may want to look for titles such as HR assistant, Payroll assistant, HR intern, Payroll intern, People coordinator, etc.  

• Apply even if you don’t meet the requirements. Many entry level jobs will have the requirement of “1 to 2 years experience”, apply anyway. If you have skills, training or transferable skills that can be applied to the job, apply. Remember a job ad is a wishlist not a rulebook.  

• Customize your resume and cover letter. You should tweak your resume to be tailored to the specific job ad that you are applying too. This doesn’t mean you have to rewrite the whole thing each time. But try add keywords that match the job description. Place the company name and role title in your cover letter. This will make a huge difference.  

• Apply consistently, not occasionally. Aim to apply to 5 to 10 targeted jobs per week. 

Common mistakes to avoid when looking to work in HR & payroll 

Everyone at the beginning of their journey is bound to make some mistakes. This is common when you are a mix of eagerness and anxiety. But the good news is, once you are aware of them, you are less likely to make them or they become an easy fix.  

Applying Without Tailoring Your Resume 

Recruiters and applicant tracking systems, will be able to tell that your resume is generic, and not tailored to their specific offer. I know it seems efficient and easier that way to send out one resume everywhere. But hiring managers, want to see if you understand the role that you are applying for and that you resume matches at least some of the skills and keywords they have in their job description.  

Here are a few quick ways you can tailor your resume:  

• Adjust your summary to reflect each job’s focus 

• Mirror key terms from the job ad  

• Highlight your relevant training and transferable skills in the top half of your CV 

Waiting for the “Perfect” Job 

I know you probably have the perfect job for yourself in mind. You probably have the exact title, company, responsibilities, benefits, etc. in mind. It may be tempting to scroll past job offers that do not seem 100 percent perfect or match what you have in mind.  

But this is a mistake as entry level jobs are meant to be as stepping stones toward your dream career. That first job might not be perfect — but it will give you the hands-on experience that leads to something bigger. 

This is why it’s important to apply to a wide range of junior roles and focus on learning environments. Don’t just focus on prestige and pay. Say yes to roles that give you opportunities to grow professionally and learn about software programs used in that industry.  

Undervaluing Soft Skills 

Soft skills are the DNA of HR and Payroll, so even if you feel underqualified, it’s not true. If you’ve worked in customer service, admin, hospitality, or retail, you likely already have what it takes to succeed.  

How to resolve it: 

On your resume, highlight your organization, communication, and attention to detail. Provide instances of how you managed confidential information or assisted with team procedures. In interviews, practice speaking confidently about your soft skills. 

Real Talk: What to expect and how to stay motivated when looking for a job 

Entering the HR and Payroll field without any experience can take time, but it is absolutely possible. So don’t lose hope or patience. If you have a strong mindset, you will get there, but we have also broken down what you can expect as you are trying to enter into this fantastic field.  

The Job Search Timeline 

Some people, have beginners luck and get a job in the field pretty quickly. But don’t feel bad if this isn’t you. It is normal to have to wait a few weeks to a few months before getting hired.  

Here is a timeline, of what will likely happen:  

• Weeks 1–2: Updating your CV, taking a course, making a LinkedIn 

• Weeks 3–6: Sending applications, hearing back from a few 

• Weeks 7+: Interviews, rejections, ghosting (unfortunately), maybe some temp or part-time offers 

Also, remember it’s a process, not a straightline, so you may experience some bumps in the road, some curves, and please go back to start and collect 200 points. But keep your head up, you got this.  

Mindset Tips for Career Switchers 

If you are switching careers, this may come with an extra mental hurdle. But here are a few ways that you can keep your head in game:  

1. Focus on your progress, not perfection. Remember that every resume, job interview, etc., builds your confidence and brings you closer to your goal.  
2. Celebrate your small wins. If you finished a course, send out a resume, connect with someone on LinkedIn, and celebrate that. These are small wins, that are bringing you closer to your goal.  
3. Don’t compare your progress to someone else. Your path is yours and it’s not a race. The process will take as long as it needs to take, but things will come together for you eventually.  
4. Rest is productive, remember if your burnout you won’t be successful in a new job. Take breaks, and make space for things that you enjoy.  

Getting your foot in the door takes time, but every step you take is a step forward. Keep learning, keep showing up, and trust that your first “yes” is coming — often when you least expect it. 

FAQ 

What’s a realistic salary for entry-level HR/payroll jobs? 

So, salary will vary from region to region, but here are some statistics that we found on Indeed.com:  

• In the UK, entry-level HR roles typically pay around £21,600–£22,800 per year. Across Europe, entry-level HR roles vary widely—from approximately €15,000/year in Eastern Europe to over €70,000/year in Switzerland.        

• In the UK, payroll assistants earn £23,000–£26,000 per year, with averages around £25,900.  In Poland, entry-level payroll assistants make about 23,480 PLN/year (approx. €5,200)          

What if I’m older or switching careers—am I too late? 

Absolutely not. It’s never too late. HR and payroll value diverse backgrounds and life experience. Remember if you have the soft skills and transferable skills, then you are already partially set. Career changers often bring fresh insights and maturity — qualities companies value highly in these roles.   

Can I work in HR/payroll remotely as a beginner? 

Yes — especially with the growing digital adoption of HR/Payroll systems. Many companies now offer remote or hybrid entry-level positions, especially in HR admin or payroll data roles. For example, on platforms like Remote Rocketship there are entry‑level, no-experience HR roles paying around €34,500/year — available entirely within Europe. 

What are good first jobs to aim for in HR or payroll? 

Here are the most common starting titles: 

• HR Assistant / HR Administrator – Focuses on onboarding, employee records, recruitment support 

• HR Coordinator – A bit more responsibility supporting HR operations and training 

• Payroll Assistant / Payroll Clerk – Helps gather time data, process payslips, calculates deductions 

• Recruitment Assistant / Talent Acquisition Coordinator – Supports hiring processes, job posting 

• People Operations Assistant – A modern, hybrid HR role, popular in startups 

These roles are typically labeled entry-level, assistant, coordinator, clerk, or intern, and are designed for beginners with strong soft skills and a willingness to learn. 

Ready to Start Your HR and Payroll Journey? 

Do you want to advance your career transition? Our Business Administration Course builds on everything discussed in this article. You’ll gain practical HR and payroll knowledge, along with important business skills that employers look for. Don’t just read about changing careers—make it happen with expert guidance and real-world applications. 

Summary 

Breaking into HR and payroll without experience is possible. Many people do it every day. The key is to recognize that your skills from customer service, retail, hospitality, or administrative roles are exactly what these fields need: communication, organization, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with others. 

Keep in mind these five essential steps: educate yourself through courses and industry resources, gain practical experience by volunteering or working on projects, create a targeted resume that highlights your relevant skills, network strategically within the industry, and apply consistently for entry-level positions. 

This journey may take a few months, but with the right approach and mindset, you can successfully transition into a rewarding career in HR or payroll. Your fresh perspective and transferable skills are valuable assets that companies actively seek. Whether you want structured training or practical skills development, KEMP Center offers courses designed to help you transition and grow in your career. 

Start today; your new career in HR and payroll is waiting.