Question Overview: This is a question that's asked to test the applicant's sense of direction and ability to read a map. It's best to ask this question if you're interviewing in a rural area where there are few landmarks.
Sample Answer: I'm about five miles away.
Question Overview: The best way to learn about an applicant's character is to ask them to describe a time when they faced adversity. The ideal candidate will be able to describe a situation in which they were forced to take on a leadership role, and how they handled the situation.
Sample Answer: I was recently promoted to human resources manager at my company. When I took over the position, I realized that I was in over my head. I had to take the initiative and learn everything I could about the position before I could even begin to make a difference.
Question Overview: This is a question that's best answered with a story. The applicant should describe a time when they had to gain the respect of others, and how they went about doing so.
Sample Answer: I had to gain the respect of my employees when I took over as manager. I did this by showing them that I was willing to work just as hard as they were, and that I was willing to learn from them as well.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is in charge of creating a positive work environment. As such, they should be able to describe their methods for improving the culture of their team. The ideal candidate will have a number of methods at their disposal, including team-building exercises and motivational speeches.
Sample Answer: I like to schedule a team-building exercise every quarter. It's important to keep the team on their toes and remind them that we're all in this together.
Question Overview: This is a question that's best answered with a positive spin. The applicant should focus on the positive aspects of their previous position and use it as a springboard to discuss why they're interested in this position.
Sample Answer: I left my last job because I felt that I had reached my limit in terms of growth. I'm looking for a position where I can continue to learn and grow.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is a position that requires a great deal of flexibility. The ideal candidate will be able to see the long-term picture and have a plan for their career path.
Sample Answer: I'd like to be in a position where I'm able to make a difference in the lives of others.
Question Overview: This is a question that's designed to gauge the applicant's ability to work with others. The ideal candidate will be able to describe a situation in which they were able to resolve the conflict in a positive manner.
Sample Answer: I had a disagreement with one of my co-workers about how to handle a particular situation. We were both passionate about our positions, but we were able to come together and find a solution that benefited everyone.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is often the last line of defense between the company's goals and the employees who will be asked to carry them out. It's important to know how they'll handle themselves when faced with a difficult situation.
Sample Answer: I've always been able to find a compromise that works for everyone. I'm able to look at the situation from all angles and come up with a solution that benefits everyone involved.
Question Overview: This is a great opportunity to learn about the applicant's interest in the company. If they're applying for a position in a different department, ask them to describe why they'd like to work for the company as a whole.
Sample Answer: I've always been interested in the field of human resources. I've also been impressed with your company's reputation for excellence.
Question Overview: The financial services industry is one of the most competitive in the country. The applicant's answer to this question will give you a good idea of their motivation and drive.
Sample Answer: I've always been interested in the stock market and have been following it closely for years.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the applicant's understanding of the company's goals and objectives. The ideal candidate will be able to describe how their project contributed to the company's success.
Sample Answer: The project was a success because it allowed us to cut costs by 15% without sacrificing quality.
Question Overview: This is a simple question that can reveal a lot about the applicant's work ethic. If they're unwilling to work weekends or evenings, it may be an indication that they're not willing to put in the extra effort.
Sample Answer: I'm available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is a jack-of-all-trades. They're responsible for everything from hiring to firing and everything in between. The ideal candidate will be able to describe how their previous experience has prepared them for this role.
Sample Answer: I've worked in several different departments during my time with the company, so I'm familiar with the various needs of each.
Question Overview: This is a broad question that can be answered in a number of ways. The applicant's response will give you a good idea of their personality and work ethic.
Sample Answer: I'm a team player who's always willing to pitch in. I'm also a strong leader who's able to take charge when necessary.
Question Overview: This is a good opportunity to find out if the applicant is looking for a long-term position with your company or if they're simply looking for a stepping stone to a higher position.
Sample Answer: I'm hoping to use this position as a springboard to a management role.
Question Overview: This is a great opportunity to learn more about the applicant's personality. You may be surprised to find that they're a talented musician or have a passion for a certain sport. This is also a good way to learn whether they're comfortable talking about themselves.
Sample Answer: I'm a pretty good cook. I like to experiment with new recipes and often invite friends over for dinner.
Question Overview: The applicant's answer to this question will give you a good idea of what they expect from the position. The ideal candidate will be able to describe how they'll be able to contribute to the company's success.
Sample Answer: I'm a hard worker who's always willing to take on new challenges. I'm confident that I can help the company achieve its goals.
Question Overview: A human resources manager will be expected to communicate with a number of different people on a regular basis. The ideal candidate will be able to describe their preferred method of communication, as well as the method they find most effective.
Sample Answer: I prefer to communicate with my team in person. I find that it's easier to maintain a sense of camaraderie when we're all together.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is a position that's often filled by an individual who's willing to relocate. The ideal candidate will be able to describe their willingness to move if necessary.
Sample Answer: I'm willing to relocate if necessary.