An author and public speaker has shared the one thing you should always say when asked a specific question in a job interview – but not everyone is convinced about what she said
A author who focuses on mastering job interviews has revealed precisely what to say when faced with a particular question – though not everyone agrees with her. It’s important to bear in mind when entering a job interview that, whilst the employer is attempting to determine whether you’re suitable for the position, you are also evaluating them.
One topic that frequently leaves candidates stumped is when the conversation shifts to whether you’ve submitted applications to other firms. It might appear that the correct strategy is to inform them they’re your sole choice – even when this isn’t accurate – but an interview specialist has revealed this isn’t the optimal approach.
Anna Papalia, a writer and public speaker, consistently provides guidance on TikTok regarding the best ways to present yourself when seeking employment.
In a video posted last year she said: “When you’re asked in an interview, ‘Are you actively interviewing?’ or, ‘Are you interviewing anywhere else?’, there is only one thing to say.
“There is only one good answer to this question. This is the most important concept when it comes to job interviews so if you forget everything else I’ve ever taught you I want you to remember this one thing. The less you want it the more they want you.
“If in a job interview, you act as though you’re desperate and you need this job and you want this position, it’s going to pull them back a little bit. I can’t explain it, it’s humans, right? We want what we can’t have.
“So the next time someone asks you ‘are you actively interviewing, are you interviewing anywhere else?’ You say ‘yes, I am actively interviewing’. And when they ask where, you say ‘I would prefer to keep that confidential’.”
She continued in the comments: “If you’re in final rounds with another company or multiple companies, you should let that be known in the interview process. Because the principle of scarcity applies. The less your skill set is available the higher the salary you can demand. Pro tip, have a skill set that is unique and desirable if you want to get the best offer and whatever you do keep all your options open until you sign that offer letter.”
Viewers were divided over Anna’s guidance, with many users disagreeing with her strategy.
One person responded: “My fav is: ‘No, I’m happy with my current position. I love what I do and my team. When I saw this opening, I thought my skills matched and it was worth exploring if it’s a good fit both.'”
While someone else said: “Have hired dozens of people over the years. If a candidate appears lukewarm about a position, that’s a red flag.”
Another added: “As a recruiter, the more a person seems to want the job, the more we give them the attention if they have the skillset and attitude.”
