Hiring manager: "Are you interviewing with any other companies?"

After nearly three decades of interviewing, we’ve seen this play out a million times over. This question isn’t designed to trick you or trap you. Hiring managers don’t ask if you’re actively interviewing unless they’re considering moving you forward. In the hiring manager’s mind, you’ve just become a high-potential candidate. In fact, this is your opportunity. Because the tables have turned. It’s a theory: people want what they can’t have. Interest from other companies validates their interest in you. But there’s a flipside. You also need to make this hiring manager feel like you are highly interested in THEIR opportunity and they aren’t just another company on your interview list. Here’s the strategy: 1. Be honest about your search. If you’re interviewing, say it. Especially if you’re interviewing with a competitor. “Yes, I’m actively interviewing with other companies right now. I’m at different stages in those conversations.” You don’t need to give them every detail. But what you’ve done is create a perception of marketability. You’ve made yourself a hot commodity. Marketability creates leverage. The more leverage you have, the more opportunities come. 2. Show them you’re selective. You don’t want to sound like you’re applying to anything and everything. “I’m being intentional about the opportunities I pursue and focusing on roles where I feel my experience aligns and I can make an impact.” You’re communicating that you have options and you’re being strategic about your job search. 3. Make them feel like they’re your top pick. You’ve shown them you’re in demand. Now you need to make sure they don’t feel like they’re fighting a losing battle against the competition. “After learning more about the role and what you’re looking for, this opportunity really stands out to me because [specific reason].” Give them a specific reason: the role, challenge, team, leadership, or opportunity to make an impact. You want the hiring manager thinking: Other companies want you, but you want us. The hiring manager needs to figure out how to move the process along quickly and avoid losing you to a different opportunity. Now you’ve just created a sense of urgency. #job #interview #careeradvice #interviewtips #hiring