Xiaoran (Emily) Chen, Braathe Enterprises intern, interviews Robert Braathe. Questions included: 1. If a candidate lacks direct experience related to the position they’re applying for, how should we evaluate their potential fit? 2. Which do you think matters more when assessing candidates — passion for the role or professional skills relevant to the position? 3. Do you have any tips for proactively reaching out to potential candidates on platforms like LinkedIn or Handshake? 4. How do you think AI and automation are transforming the HR field, like recruitment, performance evaluation, and employee engagement? 5. Some people perceive HR as a less “respectable” function in companies because it’s often seen as administrative and less technical. How would you respond to that view? 6. In your opinion, what does genuine employee engagement look like, and how can leaders actively foster it? 7. What skills do you think HR professionals should deliberately develop to strengthen their future career prospects in HR and the broader job market?