Hiring Manager vs. Supervisor: What Are the Differences?

A hiring manager and supervisor are both responsible for overseeing the work of employees. However, these job titles have different duties and responsibilities. If you’re interested in a management position, learning about the key differences between a hiring manager and supervisor can help you decide which role is right for you. In this article, we compare and contrast the job titles of hiring manager and supervisor, and we provide additional information about each position.

What is a Hiring Manager?

Hiring Managers are responsible for the entire recruitment process from start to finish. They work with Human Resources to identify and assess the skills and qualifications needed for open positions. Hiring Managers develop job descriptions and post job ads. They screen resumes and conduct initial interviews to identify qualified candidates. Hiring Managers also coordinate interviews with other members of the hiring team, including the potential supervisor for the open position. They make the final decision on who to hire and extend job offers to successful candidates.

What is a Supervisor?

A supervisor is a manager of a team of employees in an organization. Supervisors have a broad range of responsibilities, depending on the size and type of the organization. They may be responsible for hiring and firing employees, approving vacation requests, setting schedules, and assigning tasks. Supervisors may also be responsible for training and development, performance reviews, and salary recommendations. In some organizations, supervisors may also be responsible for disciplinary action. Supervisors typically report to a manager or director.

Hiring Manager vs. Supervisor

Here are the main differences between a hiring manager and a supervisor.

Job Duties

A hiring manager’s job duties can vary depending on their industry and company size. Typically, they’re responsible for the overall management of a department. This includes setting goals, creating schedules and delegating tasks to ensure successful completion of projects. A hiring managers may also be in charge of conducting interviews and making final decisions regarding candidate selections.

A supervisor typically has more direct interaction with employees on a daily basis. They oversee work stations or teams to make sure tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. Supervisors may provide guidance where necessary but aren’t responsible for providing training like hiring managers often do.

Job Requirements

The job requirements for a hiring manager and supervisor can vary depending on the company. However, most employers prefer candidates who have at least a bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration or a related field. Additionally, many companies require candidates to have several years of experience working in human resources before they can be promoted to a supervisor or manager role. Some employers also prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in human resources or business administration.

Work Environment

Supervisors typically work in an office setting, while hiring managers may work in a variety of locations. For example, a construction company’s project manager might travel to the job site and oversee the crew there. A hiring manager for a retail store might interview candidates at their local location or over the phone. Both positions can also work from home on occasion.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills needed for a hiring manager and supervisor. Both roles require excellent communication skills, as they will be responsible for conveying information to employees. They also both need to be able to effectively manage time and prioritize tasks. In addition, both roles require strong interpersonal skills, as they will be working with people on a daily basis.

However, there are some key differences in the skills needed for a hiring manager and supervisor. A hiring manager needs to have strong recruiting and interviewing skills, as their primary responsibility is to find and hire new employees. They also need to be familiar with employment law and have the ability to negotiate contracts. A supervisor, on the other hand, needs to have strong leadership and management skills. They need to be able to motivate and inspire employees, as well as handle conflict resolution.

Salary

The average salary for a hiring manager is $61,976 per year, while the average salary for a supervisor is $62,225 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the industry in which you work, your level of experience and the size of the company you work for.