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I suspect the GP is interpreting "Honestly?" as an expression of incredulity at being asked the question - as though the asker did not know their place as an employee.

I can see how such an attitude would be offputting, but I do not believe that is the correct interpretation of the HR spokesperson's meaning.

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You're right. English is not my first language and I've read the "Honestly?" more as "Seriously?".

It's just an english idiom that doesn't mean much. It's like saying "If you are looking for an honest response, the answer is no."

Sometimes it something like "I know you won't want to hear this" or "I suspect you won't like the answer". It is prefacing something like I know you don't want to hear this but I would rather be honest than lie about it.

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