Likely Interview Questions – General & Motivation

These questions assess your motivation, understanding of the organisation, and interest in a career in Human Resources.

• What do you know about Smollan and the work it does across retail and people solutions?
• Why did you apply for the Smollan Human Resource Internship Programme?
• Why are you interested in a career in Human Resources or People Management?
• How does this internship align with your qualification and long-term career goals?
• What do you hope to gain from hands-on exposure in an HR environment?

Role-Specific Interview Questions

These questions assess your understanding of HR fundamentals, workplace professionalism, and readiness to support people processes.

• What do you understand about the role of HR in supporting business performance?
• Why is confidentiality important in HR operations?
• How can HR contribute to a positive employee experience?
• What HR processes are involved in the employee lifecycle?
• How would you approach learning HR systems, policies, and procedures?
• How can HR teams support line managers effectively?

Behavioural Interview Questions (STAR-Based)

These questions assess communication skills, professionalism, empathy, and teamwork using academic or personal experiences.

• Tell us about a time you handled sensitive or confidential information responsibly.
• Describe a situation where you had to communicate professionally with others.
• Give an example of when you worked as part of a team to achieve a goal.
• Tell us about a time you had to manage multiple responsibilities.

How to Answer Using the STAR Method

STAR Method Explained:

1. Situation – Describe the context
2. Task – Explain what was expected
3. Action – Describe what you did
4. Result – Share the outcome and learning

Sample Graduate-Level STAR Answer:

1. Situation: During my studies, I assisted with organising a student project involving multiple team members.
2. Task: I was responsible for coordinating communication and ensuring deadlines were met.
3. Action: I communicated clearly, kept information confidential where required, and supported team members.
4. Result: The project was completed successfully, and I developed strong organisational and interpersonal skills.

If You Have No Work Experience

Smollan understands that graduates may not yet have formal HR experience. You can use examples from:

• University assignments or case studies
• Group projects or presentations
• Student leadership roles
• Volunteering or community involvement
• Part-time or casual work

Focus on communication skills, ethical awareness, organisation, and willingness to learn.

Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid

• Not researching Smollan or its people-focused work
• Being unclear about HR as a career choice
• Underestimating the importance of confidentiality and professionalism
• Giving vague answers without examples
• Showing limited interest in learning HR operations

Quick Interview Preparation Checklist

• Research Smollan and its culture
• Review core HR and people management concepts
• Prepare 2–3 STAR examples from academic or personal experience
• Practice explaining your qualification and interest in HR
• Dress professionally and arrive prepared
• Prepare one question about HR exposure or development

Qualification-Specific Role Interview Questions

Human Resources

These questions assess your understanding of HR operations and people processes.

• What is the role of HR in managing the employee lifecycle?
• How does HR support recruitment, onboarding, and employee development?
• Why are HR policies and procedures important?
• How can HR contribute to fair and consistent people practices?
• What HR topics from your studies are most relevant to this internship?

Industrial Psychology

These questions assess your understanding of human behaviour, motivation, and workplace dynamics.

• How does industrial psychology contribute to improving employee performance?
• Why is understanding employee behaviour important in organisations?
• How can motivation and engagement impact productivity?
• How would you apply psychological principles in an HR environment?
• What industrial psychology concepts are most relevant to people management?

Tips for Candidates

• Research Smollan, its culture, and how HR supports performance in retail and people-focused organisations.
• Be clear about why you chose Human Resources or Industrial Psychology and how it fits your long-term career goals.
• Prepare examples from your studies, projects, or personal experiences that show confidentiality, professionalism, and empathy.
• Demonstrate an understanding of basic HR processes such as recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, and performance support.
• Show a strong willingness to learn, take feedback, and support line managers and employees.
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
• Communicate professionally, listen carefully, and maintain a respectful tone throughout the interview.
• Prepare at least one thoughtful question about HR exposure, mentorship, or career development at Smollan.