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: Union avoidance is a controversial topic, and you'll want to be sure that the applicant is well-versed in the issue. The ideal candidate will be able to discuss the pros and cons of union avoidance without taking either side.
Sample Answer: I believe that union avoidance is a matter of personal choice. It's important to remember that both sides have valid arguments.
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: 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: 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 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: 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: 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 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 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 simple question that can be used to gauge the applicant's level of self-confidence. The ideal candidate will be able to discuss their strengths and weaknesses in a straightforward manner.
Sample Answer: I'm a hard worker who's always willing to take on new challenges. I believe that my greatest strength is my ability to work well with others.
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: This question is designed to get a feel for the applicant's level of integrity. While it's important to know that they're willing to investigate their co-workers, it's also important to know that they're not willing to go too far.
Sample Answer: I've never had to investigate a co-worker, but I have had to report one for inappropriate behavior.
Question Overview: This question is designed to gauge the applicant's level of self-confidence and their ability to take on a challenge. The ideal candidate will have a story to tell about a time when they were able to overcome an obstacle and achieve a goal.
Sample Answer: I was able to increase our company's productivity by 15% over the course of a year.
Question Overview: A human resources manager is a leader in the truest sense of the word. As such, they should be able to describe their leadership style in detail. The ideal candidate will be able to explain how they inspire their employees to work hard and stay motivated.
Sample Answer: I'm a firm believer in leading by example. I'm always willing to pitch in and help out when needed. I also believe that it's important for my employees to feel comfortable approaching me with any questions or concerns they may have.
Question Overview: Asking this question will help you determine whether or not the applicant is likely to stay with the company for the long term. While you may be willing to overlook a few shortcomings, you don't want to hire someone who's likely to jump ship at the first opportunity.
Sample Answer: I've been working at my current job for over five years. I've grown comfortable with my position and I'm not looking to make a change any time soon.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is a crucial part of the company's management team. As such, it's important to find someone who's excited about the position and ready to take on the challenges that it presents.
Sample Answer: I'm very excited about this opportunity. I feel that my experience in human resources management will be a great asset to your company.
Question Overview: The human resources manager is responsible for the hiring and firing of employees. As such, it's important to know what they hope to accomplish in their career. The ideal candidate will have a clear idea of their goals and how they plan to achieve them.
Sample Answer: My goal is to eventually become a regional manager. I've been working hard to develop my skills and I'm confident that I'll be able to make the leap soon.
Question Overview: This is a straightforward question that gives you a chance to learn more about the applicant's research skills. They should be able to provide a brief overview of the company's history, its current standing in the industry, and any recent newsworthy events.
Sample Answer: I've read several articles about your company, including one in the Wall Street Journal about your recent expansion into China.
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.