Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for HR & Administration Manager Roles – 2021

Looking to ace your interview for an HR & Administration Manager role? To help you stand out from other candidates, we have compiled a list of 20 top interview questions and answers that will assess your skills, knowledge, and experience in managing and leading the HR and administrative functions within an organization.

Behavioral Questions

1. Tell us about a time when you had to manage a difficult employee.
A: In my previous role as an HR manager, I had an employee who consistently showed up late and had a negative attitude in the workplace. I scheduled a meeting with the employee to discuss their behavior and provided constructive feedback on how it was affecting their performance and the team. I also worked with the employee to come up with a plan to improve their punctuality and attitude. After a few follow-up meetings and support from the team, the employee's behavior and performance significantly improved.

2. Give us an example of when you had to handle a conflict between employees.
A: In one instance, two employees had a disagreement over a project's responsibilities and felt that the other was not pulling their weight. I facilitated a meeting between both employees to address their concerns and find a resolution. After actively listening to both sides and clarifying the project's objectives, we were able to come to an agreement and continue working together effectively.

Situational Questions

3. How would you handle an employee who consistently misses deadlines?
A: I would first discuss the issue with the employee to understand the reason for missing the deadlines. Once I have an understanding, I would work with the employee to develop a plan to manage their workload and prioritize tasks better. This may include delegating tasks, providing additional resources or support, or adjusting deadlines.

4. What would you do if a team member was consistently not following company policies?
A: I would address the issue with the team member, reminding them of company policies and the consequences of not following them. I would also offer additional training or resources to help them understand and comply with the policies. If the behavior continues, I would escalate the issue to upper management.

Technical Questions

5. How would you manage the recruitment and hiring process?
A: I would start by understanding the job requirements and developing a job description. Then, I would advertise the job posting on various platforms and screen resumes to narrow down potential candidates. After conducting interviews and reference checks, I would make a hiring decision and facilitate the onboarding process for the new employee.

6. Can you tell us about a time when you implemented a new HR policy?
A: In my previous role, I noticed that our performance evaluation process was outdated and not effectively measuring employee performance. I researched and developed a new performance evaluation system that was fair, transparent, and aligns with the company's goals. After receiving approval from upper management, I implemented the new policy and saw an increase in employee satisfaction and productivity.

Cultural Fit Questions

7. How do you prioritize and balance competing tasks and deadlines?
A: I prioritize tasks based on urgency, importance, and impact on the company's goals. I also communicate with my team and stakeholders to ensure all deadlines are met and adjust priorities when necessary.

8. How do you handle confidential employee information?
A: As an HR professional, I take confidentiality very seriously. I make sure to handle all employee information with care, only sharing it with those who have a legitimate need to know. I also keep all documentation secure and adhere to company policies and procedures.

Experience & Accomplishments

9. What experience do you have managing employee relations?
A: In my current role, I am responsible for managing and maintaining positive employee relations. This includes handling conflict, providing guidance and support, and ensuring a fair and respectful work environment for all employees.

10. Can you share an accomplishment from your HR career?
A: In my previous role as an HR & Administration Manager, I was able to reduce employee turnover by 20% within the first year. I achieved this by implementing new employee development programs, addressing employee concerns and issues quickly, and improving the overall work culture.

Leadership & Management

11. How do you support employee growth and development?
A: I believe in providing opportunities for continuous learning and development for employees. Along with offering training and development programs, I also conduct regular performance evaluations and provide feedback and coaching to help employees reach their full potential.

12. How do you handle underperforming employees?
A: I first try to understand the underlying reasons for the employee's underperformance. Then, I work with the employee to develop a performance improvement plan with achievable goals and regular check-ins. If the employee's performance does not improve, I may have to take further action, such as a demotion or termination, following company procedures.

Teamwork & Collaboration

13. How do you build and maintain positive relationships with team members?
A: I believe in open communication, mutual respect, and recognizing and appreciating my team's contributions. I also make sure to involve them in decision-making processes and provide support and resources to help them succeed.

14. Can you give an example of a successful team project you led?
A: In my previous role, I led a team of HR and administrative professionals in implementing a new payroll software. I was responsible for coordinating project tasks, fostering communication and collaboration, and ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget.

Industry Knowledge

15. How do you keep up-to-date with HR and employment laws?
A: I regularly attend seminars, conferences, and workshops related to HR and employment laws. I also subscribe to industry newsletters and publications and stay connected with other HR professionals to stay informed of any changes or updates.

16. Can you tell us about a time when you had to handle a difficult compliance issue?
A: In my previous role, I discovered an employee was violating the company's code of conduct. I immediately reported the issue to upper management and worked with them to determine the best course of action to handle the situation while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

Problem-solving & Decision-making

17. How do you handle a difficult decision that affects employees?
A: In such scenarios, I gather all the information and consider potential outcomes and consequences. I also consult with relevant stakeholders and seek their input. Then, I make the best decision based on what is fair, ethical, and in the company's best interest.

18. Can you tell us about a time when you had to resolve a complex issue in the workplace?
A: As an HR & Administration Manager, I come across various complex issues, such as employee conflicts, policy violations, and performance-related issues. One time, an employee filed a complaint against a supervisor for discriminatory behavior. I immediately launched an investigation, conducted interviews, and gathered evidence. After discussing findings with upper management and the legal team, we took disciplinary action against the supervisor and implemented diversity and inclusion training for all employees.

Company-specific Questions

19. What motivates you to join our company?
A: I am drawn to your company's positive work culture, emphasis on employee development, and alignment with my values and beliefs. I am excited to be a part of a team that values its employees and strives for excellence.

20. How will your previous experience benefit our company?
A: With my experience in managing HR and administrative functions in various industries, I believe I can bring a diverse perspective and a wealth of knowledge to your organization. I am confident I can help improve processes, foster a positive work environment, and contribute to the company's growth and success.

Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for HR & Administration Manager Roles – 2021

Behavioral Questions

Situational Questions

Technical Questions

Cultural Fit Questions

Experience & Accomplishments

Leadership & Management

Teamwork & Collaboration

Industry Knowledge

Problem-solving & Decision-making

Company-specific Questions

Want to apply for a similar job?

Trending Right Now

Top 20 Corporate Recruiter Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)

Top 20 Contract Recruiter Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)

Top 20 Workforce Management Analyst Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)

Top 20 Workforce Development Specialist Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)

Top 20 Volunteer Coordinator Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)

Top 20 Talent Development Manager Interview Questions and Answers (Updated 2025)