How to Answer: What Other Companies Are You Interviewing With?

Just as you’re about to wrap up the interview, the hiring manager has one final question: “So, what other companies are you interviewing with?” By asking this question, the interviewer is trying to determine how serious you are about the position and how committed you are to landing a job in the specific industry you’re trying to enter. Although this is a less common interview question than some others you’ll encounter, there’s still a chance it will come up, so it’s great to have a strong answer prepared.

Here’s are some tips to keep in mind when answering this question.

Talk about what the companies you’re interviewing with have in common.

Whether you’re interviewing with a dozen other companies or this is your very first interview ever, don’t feel pressured to share exact information about your job search. Instead, find a common theme among the roles and companies you’ve been applying to and use that as a way of highlighting why you’d be a great fit for the position. This is especially helpful if you’re applying for positions in multiple industries since it will show potential employers that you’re passionate about finding a certain kind of role even though you’re flexible about some of the specifics.

Pro Tip: If you’re not interviewing with any other companies, you may want to talk about other jobs you’ve applied to instead (without getting too specific). In that case, you can say something like: “I’m in the early stages of the job search but I’m exploring several opportunities that will allow me to use my social media skills. I’m really excited about finding a position where I can learn a lot and add value to the company’s overall social media strategy.”

Highlight your excitement for this specific position.

Ultimately, interviewers ask this question because they want to gauge your interest in their role and make sure that you’re as interested in the position as the company is in hiring you. To demonstrate your commitment and still make it clear that you’re a valuable candidate who is already on the radar of other employers, be enthusiastic while showing that you do have other opportunities.

Say something like: “I’m interviewing with a few organizations that will allow me to use my social media skills, and I’m excited about finding a position where I can learn a lot and add value to the company’s branding goals. However, I’m particularly interested in the role at your company because it will allow me to make the most of my social media skills while also providing me with growth opportunities, and the ability to work with such an amazing team.”

Answering “What other companies are you interviewing with?” might seem a bit tricky at first, but it’s actually a wonderful opportunity to show that you’ve done your homework on the industry and that you know the position would be the best fit for you. By answering with enthusiasm and confidence, you’ll show the hiring manager that you’re interested in the position not just because you need a job, but because you know this job will be the perfect fit for you.

Next, get more career tips for internships and entry-level jobs such as Top 10 Things You Should Look For in a Company and find answers to common interview questions such as Are You Willing to Relocate?