Interview Questions

HR Generalist Interview Questions


A Human Resources (HR) Generalist is a professional who oversees the human resources responsibilities and activities of an organization. They manage recruitment processes, employee relations, regulatory compliance, and training and development.

Whether you're a job seeker preparing to be interviewed for the role of HR Generalist or an employer preparing to interview candidates for HR Generalist position, these HR Generalist interview questions will help you prepare yourself for the job interview session.

HR Generalist Interview Questions

Below are a list of some skill-based HR Generalist interview questions.

  1. Can you provide an overview of your experience as an HR Generalist and highlight some of the key responsibilities you have handled?
  2. How familiar are you with HR compliance and employment laws? Can you give examples of how you have ensured compliance in your previous roles?
  3. Can you discuss your experience with employee relations, including handling disciplinary actions, conflicts, and employee grievances?
  4. How do you approach the recruitment and selection process, from job posting to interviewing and onboarding new hires?
  5. Can you explain your experience in administering employee benefits programs, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and leave management?
  6. How do you ensure accurate and up-to-date HR records and maintain confidentiality of employee information?
  7. Can you discuss your experience with performance management, including setting performance goals, conducting performance evaluations, and providing feedback to employees?
  8. How do you handle employee training and development initiatives to enhance skills and foster career growth?
  9. Can you describe your experience in conducting investigations into employee complaints, ensuring fair and unbiased processes?
  10. How do you stay updated on changes and trends in HR practices and ensure the organization remains compliant with new regulations?
  11. Can you discuss your experience in developing and implementing HR policies and procedures?
  12. How do you handle sensitive situations, such as employee terminations or layoffs, while maintaining empathy and professionalism?
  13. Can you explain your approach to employee engagement and building a positive work culture within the organization?
  14. How do you handle difficult conversations with managers or employees when addressing performance or behavioral issues?
  15. Can you discuss your experience with HRIS systems and other HR technology tools you have utilized in your previous roles?
  16. Imagine you receive a complaint from an employee about a potential violation of company policy by their supervisor. How would you handle this situation?
  17. A manager approaches you with concerns about an employee's consistent decline in performance. How would you address this issue and work towards improvement?
  18. You are responsible for managing the company's performance appraisal process. How would you ensure that the process is fair, effective, and supports employee development?
  19. A candidate you have been actively pursuing for a job suddenly withdraws their application. How would you handle this situation and maintain a positive employer brand reputation?
  20. The company is undergoing a major organizational change, such as a merger or restructuring. How would you support employees through this change and ensure effective communication?
  21. An employee discloses that they are experiencing personal issues impacting their work performance. How would you handle this situation while maintaining confidentiality and providing support?
  22. You discover a potential discrepancy in an employee's timesheet. How would you address this issue and ensure accurate record-keeping while treating the employee fairly?
  23. A manager wants to terminate an employee for poor performance, but the employee claims they were not given proper training and support. How would you navigate this situation to ensure fairness and compliance?
  24. A conflict arises between two employees that is affecting team dynamics. How would you mediate the conflict and promote a positive work environment?
  25. The company is planning to introduce a new employee benefits program. How would you assess employee needs, evaluate options, and communicate the changes effectively to ensure employee satisfaction?

These interview questions assess the candidate's experience, knowledge of HR practices, skills in employee relations, compliance, recruitment, performance management, and their ability to handle various HR responsibilities.

HR Generalist Interview Questions and Answers

Every interview is different and the questions may vary. However, there are lots of general questions that get asked at every interview.

Below are some common questions you'd expect during HR Generalist interviews. Click on each question to see how to answer them.

  1. Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
  2. Why Should We Hire You?
  3. What is Your Salary Expectation?
  4. What is Your Greatest Weakness?
  5. Tell Me About Yourself
  6. What Is Your Greatest Accomplishment?
  7. Are You a Leader or a Follower?
  8. Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?
  9. Why Do You Want This Job?
  10. What is Your Greatest Strength?