How to answer the question “are you interviewing anywhere else?” during an interview at a startup

manpreet Best Answer 2 years ago

Let's suppose we are in an advanced stage of the recruiting process of a company and this question pops up. I wanted to point out the nuance of being an startup since who is interviewing is not an HR agent but the whole startup team instead (four members), in case it can have any impact (maybe the fact that they are less professional and more emotionally driven on this aspect).

The truth is "yes", but in a more early stage, besides that I am genuinely less interested on the other companies' offers. However I am not sure of how to deliver that answer.

On one hand I think it might give the impression of someone who did not make his mind up for their particular company and is only trying to get a job. Also in that case I don't know if it is fair for the other companies you are interviewing with to name them. On the other hand, I think it may help to give the sense of urgency needed to make the startup decide faster and to let them know that I am someone "marketable" who is not there only because it is the only chance he had.

Are there any general DOs and DONTs for this kind of question? I imagine it is a commonplace in interviews. Any suggestion appreciated

manpreet 2 years ago

Just say yes

You can point out that you expect them to be interviewing other candidates as well. You can also say that you find it unwise to stop looking elsewhere until you reach an agreement with them or at least until they give you an offer.

In general believing in the startup project is good, but it's not like you are a founder or a partner and they better not expect that level of dedication from you (you should remember that as well).