30 Human Resources Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Human Resources interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. What is your long-range career objective?
How to Answer
Interviewing and on-boarding is a costly and time consuming process for any company and hiring manager. Assure the interviewer that you are seeking a long term fit with your next employer.
Take a look at the career growth options with the company. If any of these stand out to you, it's a great idea to specifically mention them to the interviewer. Your expressed interest in those particular internal opportunities will solidify the fact that you are, indeed, seeking a long term fit with them.
1st Answer Example
"I am looking for a long-term fit in my next position. As you can see, I had strong progress and career growth in my previous company. I would love to see the same success with your company. I did notice on your website that you have global leadership opportunities. If I could work my way into a role like that, I would be thrilled."
2nd Answer Example
"Long range, I would like to see myself making strong progress towards a leadership role with Company ABC. I sincerely hope this can happen within your organization as I understand that you choose to promote from within wherever possible."
2. Do you have any questions for me about working for Company ABC?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of questions you could have found the answers to from simply watching a video on their company site!
Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?
Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? In addition, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
3. Tell me about one of the most rewarding experiences you had working on a team.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you feel accomplished through teamwork. Talk about a time when you felt fulfilled through a team setting or project collaboration.
An example may be a time when you worked on a team project in University, a recent work collaboration, or possibly an extracurricular experience such as coaching a little league team.
Discuss the positive results of the teamwork and how you attained a positive outcome as a group.
1st Answer Example
"The most rewarding team work experience that I have had was in my last year of university. We were assigned a project in teams of 4 which accounted for quite a large part of our grade. I believe everyone pulled more than their own weight because so much was at stake. Team work is very rewarding when everyone has sometime to win, or lose."
2nd Answer Example
"One of my most rewarding team work experiences was while I was attending University. I learned so much by working with my classmates. I gained new problem solving skills and learned a lot from their research preferences."
4. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
2nd Answer Example
"Stress is part of any demanding job and I embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself personally and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
5. Describe to me your method of convincing others to see things your way.
How to Answer
This answer can vary based on experience. Think about your personality and how you present your ideas to someone else, make sure you avoid words such as pushy, forceful. ie: Do you present facts and statistics and explain the results from your research? Do you influence them by coming up with inspirational concepts?
1st Answer Example
"When I would like others to see my way, I am sure to carefully lay out the ways that my idea will benefit them. I review those reasons, collect agreement from them, and then close them on the idea by having them verbally agree that it's the soundest decision or choice."
2nd Answer Example
Some additional ways that you can gain the agreement of others:
- Collect a few 'yes' answers from them before making your final request
- Ensure that your timing is always appropriate
- Get to know them and what they value / need. Build your proposition from there
- Have credibility, be honest, and logical
6. If you were to be hired at Company ABC, what are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations are to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000 and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."
7. When a problem requires a quick solution, how do you respond?
How to Answer
When it comes to complex problem solving, the decisions do not always come easily. It takes practice, experience, and confidence to learn what sorts of decisions yield the best results.
Problems that require you to act quickly can be emergency situations such as knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on.
Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it becomes to make these types of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and able to react swiftly when the need arises.
1st Answer Example
"When an urgent problem arises at work, I always try to respond in a calm and assuring manner. I am a natural leader which means that my team often looks to me for answers. One instance of my fast-thinking was just last week when we had an administrative employee no-show on a very important and busy day for us. I called a temp agency and they had the position filled in just one hour."
2nd Answer Example
"I react swiftly in emergency situations. Perhaps my skills come from my years as a parent, having to think fast and put out fires! If a quick solution is required I will do a fast overview of the facts and make a decision based on risk factors."
8. What is your personal mission statement?
How to Answer
Not everyone has a mission statement or personal mantra just off the cuff. In business, especially when entering leadership, this is an important question to ponder. Do you have a quote that inspires you, or a saying that you grew up with that really resonates with you?
1st Answer Example
"My personal mantra is that 'people who shine from within do not need the spotlight.' I feel that it is incredibly important to be a humble leader and I take this mission statement very seriously. I want my team to be in the spotlight rather than being the kind of leader that takes credit for good work."
2nd Answer Example
"I am known to say 'Kindness wins'. I truly believe that if we approach all situations with kindness first, the world would be a happier place."
9. How do you balance life and work?
How to Answer
It is important to keep a healthy work/life balance in order to prevent burnout. Talk to the interviewer about how you are able to maintain that appropriate balance for yourself.
1st Answer Example
"I find that with the right company, it's pretty simple to balance life and work. When I enjoy what I do it doesn't feel like a chore. I am always sure that, when at home, my family gets my attention first. I take time on the weekends to do things for myself and ensure that I regenerate before the work week begins."
2nd Answer Example
"I am aware of my need for balance so I will take small actions when I come home from work such as putting my cell phone away for awhile, choosing to not check my emails every hour, and taking some time to spend outdoors. All of these small choices help me to find my balance after a hard day at work."
10. What are you reading right now?
How to Answer
Do you feed your mind on a regular basis? What kind of literature do you prefer and why? Talk to the interviewer about a book that you are currently reading. If you are not currently reading a book - talk about one that has impacted you the most.
1st Answer Example
"Currently I am reading 'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday. It is a book about ambition, resilience and success. I feel that every professional should read it - it comes highly recommended."
2nd Answer Example
"I love to read and will pick up a book as often as I can - I just wish that were more often. The latest book I read was "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho. I think it's an important book that everyone should read."
11. Who has inspired you in your life and why?
How to Answer
Your life's inspiration can come from a book, a mentor, your family, a celebrity, author - literally anyone! Talk to the interviewer about who has inspired your life and why.
1st Answer Example
"I find inspiration in a variety of people and things. I would have to say that the person who has most greatly inspired me has been my grandmother. She always had a smile on her face no matter how hard she worked and she loved everyone. She was well respected and always gave more than she received. I try to live like her as much as I can."
2nd Answer Example
"My previous manager was a huge inspiration to me. Her passion for this industry was motivating and really put the fire in me to climb the ladder in my own career."
12. What characteristics or events have contributed towards your success as a leader?
How to Answer
Why do you think that you are a successful leader? Talk to the interviewer about the variety of things that you think have lead you to your success.
1st Answer Example
"There are a multitude of factors that have helped me to become a strong leader. First and foremost; I had a very good mentor from a young age. Secondly, I have studied leadership at great length. My personality has also contributed to my success as I am a natural coach, teacher, and leader."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some other characteristics that can make you a successful leader:
- Being self-aware and utilizing self-control in tough situations
- Being able to manage your time and guide others towards successful time management
- Showing support for the corporate or organizational structure
- Being decisive when challenging problems arise
- Showing empathy for your team
- Encouraging a teamwork and collaborative environment, while personally participating
13. Why do you believe you will have success at this position at Company ABC?
How to Answer
Why are you the right fit for this particular position? This is a good time to highlight the skills you possess and show the interviewer that you are the best choice for the position.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that I will be successful in this position because I am passionate about what your organization stands for. I can clearly see your vision and have already drafted some great ideas on how I can help you to get there. My organizational skills will be a major asset to you and I also bring with me a strong track record of increasing sales and client base."
2nd Answer Example
"In addition to meeting the 'must-have's' for this role, I also bring 3 years of industry specific experience in human resources. I have researched your organization to a great extent and feel that our values align very well."
14. How can Company ABC motivate you on the job?
How to Answer
Every employer should know how each staff member is best motivated. Talk to the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you are best motivated on the job.
1st Answer Example
"I am best motivated through words of praise and recognition for a job well done. I do like to know that my efforts are being noticed. In my current position we have a leader board and I do like that concept because it creates a healthy bit of personal competition in me as well."
2nd Answer Example
People are most commonly motivated by:
- Positive environments
- Clear and positive communication
- Good managers who lead by example
- Feelings of empowerment
- The ability to work autonomously
- Opportunities for career growth
- Incentives and contests
15. Would you say you are a better verbal or written communicator?
How to Answer
In which manner do you prefer to communicate - written or verbal? Discuss your preference with the interviewer and support your answer.
1st Answer Example
"I prefer verbal communication because I feel that with written communication, a lot can be misread due to lack of tone, fluctuation, expression and body language. I will always choose a face to face conversation whenever possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I like to leverage both methods of communications when dealing in business. Sometimes, situations call for verbal communications and other times, written. As a rule of thumb, I tend to practice verbal communications, with written follow up or visa versa. Utilizing multiple methods creates repetition and therefore, change."
16. How do you feel about joining a new organization?
How to Answer
Changing employers can be exciting, scary, and all of the feels wrapped into one weird emotion. Talk to the interviewer about how you feel regarding this particular career move.
1st Answer Example
"For me, the thought of joining a new organization is very exciting. I am excited about learning new skills although I am also aware that it will be a lot of hard work. Overall, I am very enthusiastic about this opportunity."
2nd Answer Example
"Finding and accepting a new job opportunity always elicits a range of emotions. I would prefer for my most recent position to have been a longer term fit, because I do not like jumping from position to position. With that said, I am excited by the opportunity that Company ABC offers. It's career growth that I am ready for."
17. How will you earn the trust of your coworkers at Company ABC?
How to Answer
Workplace relationships are important to nurture. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to earn the trust of your new co-workers, should you be offered the position.
1st Answer Example
"I feel that the best way to earn the trust of my co-workers is to be helpful, always do what I promise, and be honest with them at all times. Strong relationships have to be built on these principles."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some ideas on how to build trust with your coworkers:
- Show that you care about them, and their personal lives
- Understand that you can learn from your coworkers and attempt to do so
- Show consistency in the quality of your worl
- Behave in consistent and predicable ways
18. With your experience, what contributions do you believe you will make to our team at Company ABC?
How to Answer
Do you plan to make an immediate impact on the organization if you are hired? Talk to the interviewer about the contribution that you are going to make should you be the successful candidate.
1st Answer Example
"After meeting with you, and getting to know your organization on a deeper level, I am confident that I will make a strong contribution to this years' sales goals. I understand that you have set ambitious goals for the company and I can get you there through my existing network and strong portfolio."
2nd Answer Example
"Because my human resources specialty is in compensation and benefits, I believe that my initial and largest contribution will be in the restructuring of your compensation plans. I look forward to making an impact that will make your employees happy while introducing cost savings to Company ABC."
19. List the top 3 skills that you have acquired in your last role.
How to Answer
You have likely gained many valuable skills in your career. Share with the interviewer which skills you value the most. Be sure to include skills that will potentially benefit this potential new employer.
1st Answer Example
"In the past few years I was able to upgrade my education while still working full time. The biggest skill that I gained was my ability to multi-task as I worked the dual role of employee and student. I also have strong skills in a variety of Microsoft programs such as PowerPoint and Excel."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some additional skills to mention, that may be transferable to any role:
- Experience leading others
- Ability to motivate a team
- Experience in giving positive feedback
- Ability to terminate employees with tact
- Strong research skills
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
20. If you were given a choice, which work related task would you leave for last? Why?
How to Answer
Often times we will leave the tasks that we don't like for last in an act of procrastination. Other times, we will mindfully leave a task for last because we feel that it makes the most sense. Help the interviewer to determine which personality type you are by answering this question clearly.
1st Answer Example
"If I were given a choice, I would leave my documentation tasks for last. I say this because I like to spend my time selling and hitting targets so anything to do with documentation during business hours - I feel takes away from my business development tasks. I do understand the importance of it, though."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not believe in procrastination so I tend to take on the most challenging aspects of a project first, and then work my way into the easier, less time-consuming portions of my work. Especially in the field of human resources, procrastination can be very problematic."
21. Outside of work, what type of creative activities do you like to pursue?
How to Answer
A true creative minded person will have outside activities aside from what's happening in the workplace. Tell the interviewer about the variety of ways in which you express your creativity.
1st Answer Example
"Outside of work I like to attend dance classes and I also attend the odd paint and sip wine nights at a local wine shop. I also enjoy reading as a way of nurturing my creative side."
2nd Answer Example
"Outside of work I love to explore my creative side. I practice photography for fun. As an avid reader, I also explore writing. Cooking is also an art for me and I try to incorporate creativity into the fun meals I prepare for family and friends."
22. Tell me about your relationship with your previous boss.
How to Answer
When you answer this question be sure to remain positive, even if the experience wasn't. Avoid talking about any previous drama and do not speak poorly of your employer. Keep your answer short and respectful.
If you had a good relationship with your previous boss: "I had a very healthy relationship with my previous employer. She was easy to approach and we would bounce ideas off of each other quite often. I would sum it up as a relationship lead by a strong mutual respect."
1st Answer Example
"I had a very healthy relationship with my previous employer. She was easy to approach and we would bounce ideas off of each other quite often. I would sum it up as a relationship lead by a strong mutual respect."
2nd Answer Example
If you did not have a good relationship with your previous boss: "I have had healthier relationships in the past with previous employers but we did the best that we could. Our communication styles were very different which made it challenging at times."
23. What do you know about the company culture at Company ABC?
How to Answer
Company culture and fit is a very important factor when considering a career move. Assure the interviewer that you have put thought, research, and consideration into how the company culture will work for you.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched your company through your social media channels, and on glassdoor.com. Your employees have really great things to say and overall it seems that you have fun while you work. I am looking forward to joining an organization, like yours, that is upbeat and thoughtful with an eye on helping the community at the same time."
2nd Answer Example
"I have researched your organization a great deal and see that you recently earned the 'XYZ Award' for industry innovation. You had a lot of competition when it comes to winning this award so it tells me that your team is incredibly dedicated and focused."
24. You will be required to present to large teams at Company ABC. Tell me about your experiences giving presentations in front of large groups.
How to Answer
Public speaking can be intimidating so assure the interviewer that you are capable of communicating well in front of large groups. Have you taken any courses or training in public speaking? Perhaps you have so much experience that it comes second nature. Assure the interviewer that you are capable of giving presentations.
1st Answer Example
"In my past 2 roles I have been responsible for regularly presenting to my team of 43 staff as well as to our entire warehouse team of over 200. I have taken a couple of Toastmasters sessions which helped a great deal. I am a confident public speaker."
2nd Answer Example
"Although I do not bring experience in giving presentations to large groups, it is something that I would be comfortable with doing. I am confident and do have some training in public speaking from my days in University."
25. As a human resources professional, you will come across difficult scenarios. How do you deal in uncomfortable situations?
How to Answer
Often, our work environment holds the possibility for awkward or tense situations. It can be difficult to know how to respond when you have a coworker who is moody, or when your coworker lacks social skills and constantly asks inappropriate questions. The interviewer wants to know that you can keep your cool in situations like these.
1st Answer Example
"I have had my share of awkward situations, and having raised 2 kids, I am no stranger to them! In the workplace, if an uncomfortable situation arises I tend to face the issue head on, but in a tactful way. Sweeping things under the rug rarely helps. I have no problem being open with my team or colleagues if I am not feeling comfortable in a particular situation."
2nd Answer Example
"Uncomfortable situations don't really phase me. As a human resources professional, I truly have seen and heard it all. It's important to remain professional and collected, even in the most awkward of situations."
26. Company ABC is asking for 8 years of industry experience and you have just 5. Why do you think you are qualified for this position?
How to Answer
To many employers, the number of years' experience is flexible - so long as you have the results to show for the years that you do have. Talk to the interviewer about your major career successes. This is the time to sell yourself. Make no apologies for your lack of years!
1st Answer Example
"Although I have 5 years' experience vs 8 years' experience I can absolutely do this job well. In my previous role, I was outperforming colleagues who had 12 years of experience. To me, it's all about drive and ability to be a quick study. I have all of these qualities and more."
2nd Answer Example
"Along with my 5 years working in this industry, I have worked in related industries my entire career. Also, I hope that my graduate degree gives me a little boost in experience over the required undergraduate degree."
27. How do you determine priorities when you have multiple projects due?
How to Answer
When you feel torn between multiple projects or tasks, how do you decide which one needs your attention the most? Assure the interviewer that you are able to be diligent when it comes to assessing your priorities.
1st Answer Example
"I will determine which project requires my attention by the amount of hours we are behind and then the project size. I am comfortable delegating tasks when needed but I am also aware that these times will require an additional commitment of hours from me. Never have I under delivered on a deadline."
2nd Answer Example
"Assuming that the projects have different stakeholders, I interview each to determine the value of increased productivity, morale or revenue, decreased costs, and/or the overall impact."
28. How would your co-workers describe your attention to detail?
How to Answer
It is always best to support your reply with a real life example. Talk to the interviewer about your level of attentiveness when it comes to details on the job.
1st Answer Example
"My co-workers would describe my attention to detail as very strong. I can very easily point out spelling discrepancies in communication and will notice the small things. I think big-picture as well but have always had a knack for details."
2nd Answer Example
"My attention to detail is a point that I have been working on a lot this past year. I am meticulous but, in the past, have pushed my documentation back a little bit. It's something I am conscious of and continually working on."
29. What is the riskiest decision you have made? What happened in the end?
How to Answer
As a successful professional, you have the knowledge to calculate risk in your industry. Tell the interviewer about a work-related risk you have taken and what the outcome was.
Start with an overview of the decision you needed to make, and explain why the situation was risky. Describe who the situation affected, as well as the possible outcomes. Complete your answer by sharing how the decision paid off, or by mentioning any recognition you received for your success.
1st Answer Example
"The riskiest decision I ever made was to leave the recruitment industry to move into workforce planning, as a consultant. The risk meant that if I was unsuccessful, I would be looking for a new job in a really slow economy. The pay off would be that I would finally be in a sector that I was truly interested in. I made a great career for myself for the next 8 years, which has brought me here today - with an exceptional opportunity in front of me."
2nd Answer Example
"One of the riskiest decisions I made was to leave corporate america and join a start up with an innovative idea. The company was seeking to provide a product/service that would pioneer a new industry. We worked hard and smart to launch and create a new space in the nutraceutical marketplace. We failed a lot along the way, but we learned to fail fast and it made us all better professionals."
30. How would you like to be recognized for your accomplishments at Company ABC?
How to Answer
We all like to be recognized in some way for our accomplishments in the workplace. Share with the interviewer how you would like to be recognized for your hard work.
1st Answer Example
"I am very much an over-achiever and find that the best way for me to be recognized for a job well done is to be given words of kindness and recognition. I am easily encouraged and the best reward for me is to know that my hard work is being noticed."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some ways that a company can recognize you for your accomplishments:
- Corporate gifts
- Financial perks and bonus'
- Public recognition
- Kind words
- Continued encouragement
- Title promotions