The department in a company or organization that is responsible for all employee-related matters, such as hiring, contracts, payroll, and staff development. It is also called Human Resources (HR).
example
Wenn du Fragen zu deinem Arbeitsvertrag hast, wende dich bitte an die Personalabteilung.
If you have questions about your employment contract, please contact the HR department.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of three parts: 'das Personal' (the staff/employees), the linking '-s', and 'die Abteilung' (the department). So it is literally the department for the staff.
EXAMPLE
Alle neuen Mitarbeiter müssen sich bei der Personalabteilung melden.
All new employees have to report to the HR department.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used in connection with the HR department are 'sich wenden an' (to turn to/contact), 'kontaktieren' (to contact), or 'arbeiten in' (to work in). You contact them with questions about your contract, application, or salary.
EXAMPLE
Für meine Krankmeldung muss ich die Personalabteilung kontaktieren.
I have to contact the HR department about my sick note.
Register and style
In modern business, especially in international companies, the English terms 'Human Resources' or the abbreviation 'HR' (pronounced 'Ha-Err' in German) are often used. 'HR-Abteilung' (HR department) is also very common.
EXAMPLE
Bitte schicken Sie Ihre Bewerbung direkt an die HR-Abteilung.
Please send your application directly to the HR department.