Interview Tip: “What other companies are you considering?”

March 18th, 2009 by lewis

If the employer asks if you are interviewing with other companies, it’s okay to tell them that you’re looking at other job opportunities.  It’s not easy getting a job; most people look at more than one option.  However, to answer this question well, you have to be very specific why this company is your top choice.  If you are considering Google, Microsoft, and Apple, don’t give a canned response about how you want to work for a leading high-tech firm with smart people.  Take the time to research each company and have specific reasons for why that company is best suited for you.

Also keep in mind that if you’re interviewing for jobs in different industries, it’s bound to raise some eyebrows.  For instance, if you’re interviewing at Proctor & Gamble, and you mention that you have interviews at McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, and FedEx, the hiring manager will question your career focus and industry passion.  The same applies for different job functions, so don’t tell the interviewer you’re applying for the COO, CFO, and VP of Engineering jobs at different companies.

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One Response to “Interview Tip: “What other companies are you considering?””

  1. April 30, 2009 at 6:58 am, You're Never Stuck said:

    Great article!