What to Say When Asked Who Else You are Interviewing With?

When you're asked, "Who else are you interviewing with?" in a job interview, your first reaction may be to tense up and become defensive. This is a natural reaction to an interview question that is aggressive and just a little rude. Here are some ways to deal with this often-asked interview question.

Don't Disclose Too Much

When you're asked an aggressive interview question about who you're interviewing with, be very careful not to disclose too much. Simply say that you're exploring several options. Describe other companies you're interviewing with in general terms, mentioning the field, the type of position for which you're being considered and the size of the firms involved. Tell the truth without giving specifics. Only mention those possibilities that are similar to the one you're interviewing for so you don't come across as a dilettante.

Don't Name-Drop

If you've had recent interviews with major companies in your field, it can be very tempting to list their names. You may think doing so shows how valuable you are. However, you run the risk of alienating or even threatening the job interviewer. Don't succumb to the temptation to name-drop. Instead, give a vague answer, explaining that you're very pleased some great firms in your industry are interested in you although you can't share their names, then turn the conversation back to the company at hand.

Control Your Answer

When you get this sort of aggressive interview question, it's just as crucial to keep your composure as it is to give the right answer. Stay calm, and don't raise your voice or speak more quickly when you answer. Treat the question as if you expected it, and don't let yourself become flustered. Just redirect the conversation back to your own positive strengths and fit with the company. If the interviewer is using this probing interview question as a way of testing you, he's likely to be impressed by your positive attitude.

Be Specific When You Have an Offer

The one time to answer this question specifically is when you already have a job offer from another company. In this case, let the interviewer know that you've been extended an offer, and tell him the basics of the offer, including salary and bonuses, without telling him the name of the company. The goal here is to get the interviewer to match or beat the offer. Sometimes you can even be the one to initiate this conversation after your interview is over by calling back your interviewer or job recruiter.

Be aware that it's actually a good sign when the interview question "Who else are you interviewing with?" comes up in an interview. It's often an indication that the company is interested in you. Just remember that there's nothing to be gained by giving an actual answer to this question. Deflect the question, focus on the job at hand, and remain professional to impress your interviewer.

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