60+ HR Interview Questions And Answers You Must Know

An HR interview is an essential part of the hiring process. During a job interview, the hiring manager tries to assess the person’s qualities and learn more about him.

During an interview, the hiring manager tries to understand the skills and proficiency of the candidate. In the interview, there would be some straight and tricky questions. This candidate must therefore stay prepared for the interview. 

Before going for the interview, you must recheck the resume. You must also figure out some essential things about the company. 

You need to understand the job role and the job profile. If you do this kind of research, you will know better what the company’s vision is and how you can have objective standards for your future growth in this company.

Read the questions and answers sample here related to an HR interview to get a clear picture.

In This Article

➡️General HR Interview Questions And Answers

How are you today? 

When the Hr manager asks how you are today, he doesn’t want to understand your schedule or what happened today. He is just setting the mood and environment for the interview. So, to this, your answer should be short and sweet.

Sample answer:

“Yes, I am fine, and it’s good to meet you here.”

This answer would be an ideal one. While you answer, make sure that you have a good smile and confidence on your face. Maintain eye contact and see what’s next for you.

Tell me something about yourself.

This statement again is the extension to the first question. But say something different from what’s written in the resume. You must talk about your soft skills and some of your details. While you speak, you must frame the answer well and be ready to show your skills via communication. But only boast a little, and also do not underrate your accomplishments.

In such questions, you must remember that it would be great if you stay positive and confident. Focus on your strengths to impress the HR manager. Whatever you speak, it should be relevant and make sense.

When the Hr manager asks you to say something about yourself, avoid landing in an uncomfortable position by sharing something that would not be relevant and painful.

Sample answer:

I am a [insert profession or area of expertise], with a passion for [insert relevant interests or skills]. In my free time, I enjoy [insert hobbies or activities that showcase your personality or strengths].

Why are you suitable for this role?

When the recruitment manager asks you why you think you suit this role, he is trying to know whether you have understood the job profile in detail. Also, he would like to determine the confidence levels. 

You must show your confidence and say yes, you are confident in the role, and your positives will help you do justice to the position.

Sample answer:

Sir, I am extremely grateful you called me for the interview. I have seen through the job description, and when I saw it, I immediately thought I wanted to do it. I have skill sets that would exactly match this job profile. Since I am on my way to expanding the scope, this job will provide me with the relevant challenges that I want to meet.”

What do you think are your strengths and weaknesses?

Here, it would help if you were clear about the strengths and weaknesses in connection to your work. You must not mention them if they are personal and irrelevant to the job. 

During an interview, some of the strengths you can mention include creativity, good decision-making power, sound analysis, problem-solving skills, time management, etc.

You can mention some weaknesses at the interview: bluntness, impatience, and worrying about small things.

You must first consider your strengths and weaknesses and become aware of the same. Before you talk to the HR manager about these things, you should be prepared.

Sample answer:

My greatest strengths include [insert 1-2 key strengths that align with the job requirements], while I am constantly working to improve in areas such as [insert 1-2 areas for improvement that are not critical to the job requirements]. I believe in continuous self-improvement and am always seeking opportunities to learn and grow.

What motivates you?

In most HR interviews, you will get this question. So, what motivates you? To answer this question, you can say, “I want to be part of an organization that values skills. I am motivated when I achieve my goals.

I want to stay ahead in my professional life, and hence with sheer determination and motivation, I like to cross all the hurdles that come my way.”

When you give such an answer, the HR manager or the employer will understand that you like to grow, which motivates you. Even if money is the motivator, do not mention that.

While answering this question, you must stay positive. But do not give a fake and superficial answer. The Hr manager may ask you further questions about your words. So, be prepared and talk sense.

Sample answer:

I am motivated by [insert 1-2 things that drive your passion or sense of purpose in your work] and the opportunity to [insert 1-2 aspects of the job that excite you or align with your career goals]. I am committed to positively impacting and take pride in achieving meaningful results.

Why are you looking forward to changing jobs?

You have come for an interview, so it is clear that you wish to change your job. The Hr manager may ask you the question. You can mention many reasons for the job change. These include:

  • Expanding your horizon and accepting a more challenging role.
  • Sharpening your skills.
  • Getting a better opportunity.
  • Domain switching.

So, some specific reasons can lead you to seek new job opportunities. It would help if you told this thing to the Hr manager. It is vital to talk quickly. If you bluff, the HR manager can make it out.

Sample answer:

To be honest, I liked the role, and so I thought I could use my skill sets here. I am looking forward to enhancing the scope and expanding my horizon; thus, I want to seize the opportunity.”

What’s your aim in life?

With this question, the HR manager is trying to understand how ambitious you are. What kind of life are you living, and how will you help the organization?

It would help to speak about relevant things to the job and the field. You also need to talk about your objectives and the need to grow. Try to speak of the goals and aims aligned with the company’s goals. 

Sample answer:

My aim in life is to [insert your ultimate goal or aspiration]. I am driven to achieve this by [insert 1-2 key motivations or inspirations that fuel your ambition]. I am committed to working hard, continuously learning, and overcoming challenges to make my aspirations a reality.

Did you ever have issues or conflicts with your previous boss?

Here, the interviewer is trying to determine whether you have encountered any conflict. The answer to this is something that should say that conflict is part of normal life, and sometimes when it comes, one should solve it and not avoid it.

When the interviewer specifically asks you about what was an event and how things came up, you can explain in brief. But don’t bring out too many bitter words. Just explain in brief about the conflict and how you handled the same.

Sample answer:

I have had different working styles and approaches with previous bosses, but I have always aimed to maintain positive and professional relationships. In instances where there were disagreements or conflicts, I took a proactive approach to discuss and resolve them in a respectful and collaborative manner.

What is an ideal organization for you?

Sample answer:

For me, an ideal organization provides equal opportunity to all. When the organization values the individual’s contribution and understands how things are to be done, it is ideal for the person. The place where the person can dream of a better goal can be an ideal organization. 

Perhaps, this answer can be an ideal answer, and it can provide an idea to the interviewer about how you are.

How quickly can you adapt yourself to new technology?

Here the interviewer is trying to ask you about the skills like adaptability, flexibility, and smartness in terms of technology. Ideally, you provide a genuine answer to this.

Sample answer:

Previously, I have worked with a setup with many options and technological solutions. I think that technology can take things to newer zones. I am good at it, and with proper education and guidance, I am good at grasp[ing and learning the newer options.

When you answer like this, you are trying to indicate that you will adapt quickly to the new technology. All you need is some good guidance and education.

How are you in terms of taking risks or experimenting?

Sample answer:

In terms of experimenting and taking risks, I have the relevant diligence to do what’s new. I am flexible enough to get adapted to new things quickly. When someone experiments, he gets a good chance to learn.

This kind of answer will be impressive and provide an idea that you have the caliber to do new things in life and make things work for you.

What are you most proud of?

There would be something in your mind, and you may want to say that; you can say that. If it doesn’t strike, you can say, “The best and the proudest moment is yet to come.” 

It means that you are quite optimistic about the work or the job you will take up. So, all you need to do is answer the question hoping that you will prove something good at the company you will join.

If you did something good in your previous job, then you can mention the same and the response you received from your boss.

In this way, you explain that you have a lot of potentials and want to give your best to the organization you will join.

Sample answer:

I am most proud of [insert accomplishment that showcases your skills or character]. This achievement was significant because [insert reason why it was meaningful or impactful]. It was a challenging but rewarding experience that taught me valuable lessons and reinforced my commitment to hard work and perseverance.

Are you an organized person?

The hiring manager wants to know how organized you are and what you expect from the people around you. You can answer,

Sample answer:

I am organized and keep my belongings properly. I keep everything in such a way that I get them quickly.

The above questions and answers are examples that you can think of. You must stay prepared and go to the interview with complete confidence.

There can be many other questions that the Hr manager can ask. You must prepare yourself.

➡️Behavioural HR Interview Questions And Answers for Experienced

Tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem under pressure.

Sample answer:

In my previous job, we had a project deadline that was fast approaching, and there were a few critical issues that needed to be resolved. I gathered the team, prioritized the problems, and assigned tasks to each team member based on their strengths. I monitored the progress closely, ensured everyone had what they needed to complete their tasks, and offered support where necessary. We managed to meet the deadline, and the project was successful.

Describe a situation where you had to adapt to a new or unexpected challenge.

Sample answer:

At my previous job, I was tasked with working on a new software program that I had no prior experience with. I spent extra hours researching and learning about the program, asking for help from colleagues, and attending training sessions. I was able to complete the project on time and to the satisfaction of the client.

Can you give an example of a time when you had to communicate a difficult message to a team or client?

Sample answer:

In my previous job, I had to inform a client that their project had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. I scheduled a call with the client and prepared a detailed explanation of the situation, along with alternative solutions. I remained empathetic and transparent throughout the conversation, and the client appreciated my honesty and professionalism.

Tell me about a time when you had to work with a difficult or challenging colleague or customer.

Sample answer:

At my previous job, I had a colleague who was often negative and resistant to change. I realized that his behavior was affecting the team’s morale and productivity, so I scheduled a one-on-one meeting with him to discuss the situation. I listened actively to his concerns, offered constructive feedback, and proposed solutions that aligned with the team’s goals. Over time, he became more positive and engaged, and our team’s performance improved.

Describe a situation where you had to take a calculated risk to achieve a positive outcome.

Sample answer:

In my previous job, I suggested a new marketing strategy that involved significant investment. Although there was no guarantee of success, I believed that the potential rewards outweighed the risks. I presented a detailed plan to my manager, highlighting the benefits and potential pitfalls. My manager approved the plan, and the campaign was successful, resulting in increased revenue and customer engagement.

Can you give an example of a time when you had to prioritize multiple tasks or projects?

Sample answer:

In my previous job, I was responsible for managing several projects simultaneously. I created a system to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance, keeping a detailed to-do list and calendar. I also delegated tasks where appropriate and communicated regularly with the team to ensure we stayed on track. Despite the workload, we successfully completed all projects on time and within budget.

Tell me about a time when you had to overcome a setback or failure.

Sample answer:

In my previous job, I was leading a project that did not go according to plan. Despite our best efforts, we could not meet the client’s expectations. I took ownership of the situation, analyzed the root cause of the problem, and proposed a revised plan that addressed the issues. I communicated openly with the client and kept them informed throughout the process. Although it was a challenging experience, we salvaged the project, and the client was satisfied with the result.

➡️HR Interview Questions For Salary Negotiation

What are your salary expectations?

This is a common question during an HR interview, and it’s important to be prepared to negotiate. Start by researching the market rate for the position and level of experience in your industry.

Be confident in your response and provide a range instead of a specific number so you have room to negotiate.

Sample answer:

Based on my research and experience, I’m looking for a salary in the range of $15,00,000 to $20,00,000.

Why do you think you are worth the salary you are asking for?

Be prepared to explain your value proposition and how it aligns with the company’s needs. Highlight your skills and experience that make you the best fit for the position.

Sample answer:

I believe my unique combination of skills and experience make me an asset to the company. My track record of exceeding expectations and my ability to bring innovative solutions to the table demonstrate my value to the team.

How do you handle salary negotiations?

Be honest and transparent in your response. Explain that you approach negotiations as a collaborative process where both parties can benefit.

Sample answer:

I approach salary negotiations as a collaborative process where both parties can benefit. I’m open to discussing different compensation packages and finding a solution that works for everyone.

What benefits are you looking for in addition to salary?


This is an opportunity to discuss other benefits that are important to you, such as health insurance, retirement plans, or flexible working hours. Be clear about what you’re looking for and open to compromise.

Sample answer:

In addition to salary, I’m looking for health insurance and retirement plans. However, I’m open to discussing other benefits that could be a good fit for both parties.

How do you respond to a lower-than-expected salary offer?

Be professional and open to discussing the offer. If the offer is lower than you expected, ask for clarification and express your concerns. Be prepared to explain why you think you’re worth a higher salary.

Sample answer:

Thank you for the offer. However, based on my research and experience, I was hoping for a higher salary. Can you help me understand how the salary offer was determined? I believe my skills and experience justify a higher salary.”

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