Best Answers to the question:(ranked by the quality)
1. WaterBottleGirl - August 01 2008 (Answer ID: 33)
*Trick question. By answering that you have applied to other companies gives hint to the employer that this job isn’t a top priority (though that may or may not be the case). To avoid such complications but reminding them that you are a candidate in demand, keep the focus to this present job by not detailing on other offers or other interest in companies.
“I have applied to (general name) and (general name), but it is really as a security net. The job that I would truly enjoy coming into work for is the position as (name of position) in your company. I’m very passionate about this opportunity and with my well-qualified front-line experience; I hope that you will see that I am a perfect fit for your company.”
2. Tom - August 05 2008 (Answer ID: 137)
There’s really no guaranteed win-win situation that can come out of answering this question (unless you don’t have any other prospective interests on the side). By admitting having applied to other companies (competitors or non-competitors alike) can make you look like you are just weighing options, not serious about this particular opportunity. But then there may be your conscious gnawing away to be honest. Since this a touchy subject, it is best left in generalized terms and end on a compliment to the company.
"I’ve been applying to a variety of places but this is the one position that I believe is the best fit for me. I’d love an opportunity to be (position title) because (list company’s attributes & achievements) and (draw qualities from position description to yourself)”.
3. cl123 - August 04 2008 (Answer ID: 81)
Be honest and general. Focus on the new job at hand. Everything else is considered a distraction.
4. Berry - August 21 2008 (Answer ID: 400)
"Elsewhere and nowhere. The other opportunities don't interest me as much because this is the one position and company I feel the most passionate about. I know I will be giving 110% effort and work if given the opportunity to work for this company."
5. Danielle - August 18 2008 (Answer ID: 350)
Be honest and general. Focus on the new job at hand. Everything else is considered a distraction.
6. ese locs - August 11 2008 (Answer ID: 179)
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7. JLKS - August 14 2008 (Answer ID: 267)
I truly love what I do, I hope to join your (company) as I believe I will be an asset and will commit to your success
8. Taxman08 - May 17 2010 (Answer ID: 4573)
I was asked the question during a PwC manager level interview. Interviewers ask this to see whether you are committed to your career in the specific industry which they operate in. The best answer is to tell them generally that you have applied to other firms in the same industry without being too specific but then insist why you think they are the best employer out of their competitors.
9. Mike - December 07 2009 (Answer ID: 4332)
I agree with Barry. I have made this mistake and am now realizing it. I googled this question because it was the one part of the interview in the last several interviews that makes me uncomfortable and now I know why!
Suggest an Answer to the Question or Make a Comment
Where else have you applied?
(Question ID: 62) Contributor: WaterBottleGirl
1. WaterBottleGirl - August 01 2008 (Answer ID: 33)
3. cl123 - August 04 2008 (Answer ID: 81)
5. Danielle - August 18 2008 (Answer ID: 350)
6. ese locs - August 11 2008 (Answer ID: 179)
8. Taxman08 - May 17 2010 (Answer ID: 4573)