Do you have experience in mass-layoffs or terminations? What is your view on job eliminations?

Most Human Resources Managers can agree that terminating employees is one of the least desirable aspects of an HR function. Laying off or terminating employees in mass amounts is even worse. However, this is a reality that you may need to face in your HR career, especially if you work in a larger company that goes through a merger or acquisition or is impacted by an unforeseen circumstance.

Discuss a time when you have had to take part in or even lead job eliminations. Walk the interviewer through the steps that you took and how you handled the situation with poise and professionalism. If you do not have experience with job eliminations, discuss the approach you believe you would take in such a situation. If you have a rapport with the interviewer, you may want to ask if a mass-layoff is something this company has ever experienced or is currently facing.