12 Questions

Questions to Ask HR Professionals

Insightful prompts for informational interviews with HR pros about policy, culture, analytics, and career paths.

1

What HR initiatives created the biggest culture shift here?

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Why this works

Finds levers that actually moved behavior.

2

How do you measure success beyond turnover and eNPS?

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Why this works

Explores richer people analytics.

3

What’s a policy you iterated after unexpected outcomes?

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Why this works

Honest learning and evidence-based change.

4

How do you partner with managers on performance?

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Why this works

Reveals coaching and accountability model.

5

What tech stack do you use and where are the gaps?

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Why this works

Practical systems understanding.

6

What makes HR trusted by employees here?

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Why this works

Trust dynamics and confidentiality norms.

7

How do you approach DEI with real metrics and budgets?

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Why this works

Separates statements from action.

8

What talent risks keep you up at night?

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Why this works

Strategic view of pipeline and retention.

9

What does a great HR career ladder look like?

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Why this works

Maps skills for progression.

10

What advice would you give someone breaking into HR now?

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Why this works

Actionable entry points and certificates.

11

What’s an underrated HR skill?

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Why this works

Surfaces edge skills (facilitation, negotiation).

12

Which communities or resources do you recommend?

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Why this works

Builds network and ongoing learning.

Informational Interviewing

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Etiquette

Ask for 20–30 minutes, end on time
Send a concise thank-you
Offer to share helpful resources back

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