Should one, at an interview, disclose that they might not take the job?

Question

I know when we interview at my place of work we ask the question "if we were to offer you the job, will you accept?".

I have 2 interviews next week and I want to wait for outcome of both before deciding.....do I admit this to them at the first interview if they ask? And what do I say if they offer me the job before I hear back from the 2nd interview?

I don't want any 'minus' points!

Answer 1

The slightest mention that you might NOT take the job and they'll think "Why did we bother interviewing this idiot"! and your name will be instantly deleted - and most likely so will you be ! ! !

Answer 2

The obvious answer to your EXACT question is you reply yes. But I don't think that's the proper question that is typically asked. It's probably more like, "Would you be interested in a position like this?"

Nobody says in an interview that they will decline a job offer. The only exception might be if the person is still employed and in the interview they realize the position is nothing like what they though tit would be. Otherwise, you would always say yes to your question. The truth is, the candidate has no way of actually knowing in advance if they will accept. What if you get a better offer at the same time or beforehand? What if the potential employer offers a lower salary than you asked for or they verbally stated? There are many hypotheticals here. It's really a silly question where the answer is, well, natural.

The proper question is to ask the canadidate what their interest is in the position and their availability. You phrase the question in a way to see how interested they are, especially in the body language. If they don't appear excited or if they are excited but it looks fake, then you decline. Or, if their availability is not quite right. Again, watch the body language.

Getting to your issue about mutliple offers, this gets asked all the time. I just answered this question a few minutes ago for someone else. If you get an offer before finding out about a better one, go ahead and take it. If you get the better offer, then you quit the current job on the spot and take the better offer. Happens all the time and it's perfectly legal. Keep in mind if the other job doesn't work out, the kilted employer will obviously not take you back.

Best,
-- Liam

Answer 3

I would not give any indication of possibly not taking the job if offered, unless specifically asked. In that case, I would be honest and say that you are considering several opportunites at the present time and you'll need a little more time to make a good decision. Even if you say you will accept, that does not obligate you to anything. But I think they will respect you if you are honest. You also may be able to negotiate a better offer if you end up getting offers from both. Just be positive, enthusiastic and focused on the position at each interview. Don't worry about the other one. Good luck!!

Answer 4

Personally I would advise you to be honest and say to the interviewer should they ask the question that you have other interviews and obviously need time to make an informeed decision but that you would hate for them to hold that against you - its not a case of being indecisive its a practical and thoughtful approach to ensure you can offer what they are looking for and that they are the right company for you. If you are offered a role before you fininsh interviewing for the other, again, be honest and say you dont want to make any snap decisions and you will get back to them with an answer as soon as you have made one. Dont allow them to force you to decide. IF they push you then say that they are obviously keen to recruit for the role but that doesnt influence your ability to make a decision.

Good luck with your interviews and I hope you land the one you want and that is right for you.

Answer 5

To say that you might not take the job is very negative, and you will get minus points,
Best to say that you are considering various offers at this time, and ask for the job, with a time frame for acceptance, so you can give consideration, and the courtesy of consideration to those who have made offers !!! This gets you more offers, brownie points with whom you are interviewing, and its a win win situation all round, especially for you !!!

Answer 6

It's fine but don't sound too cocky with it. Remember that an interview is for both parties to make a decision, not just the interviewer but also the interviewee.

If they ask you directly whether or not you'd take tell them that if they were to offer it then you would have to weigh up your options and their offer. Never say a direct yes or no.

Answer 7

No. For you, the whole purpose of the interview is be offered the job, right? Why else are you there? Therefore, you need to sound as enthusiastic as possible.
If you say you might not take the job, then the chances are they will offer it to another person who definitely will.

Answer 8

No, when they offer the job to you simply state you need to think about it as it is an important decision. If it's okay to let them know by the end of the week. They should be okay with that. They might even want you more as you seem not too needy/desperate. Good luck!

Answer 9

NO, NO, NO! Even the playing field. They are not telling you if and when you will get a job offer, so don't show your hand, before it's necessary. You might end up losing out on everything, if this is your last option. Good luck!

Answer 10

Don't bring it up unless they ask. If they are a good/smart company, they will contact you if you got the job a few days after. Rarely will they tell you on the same day. Should they ask you directly if you will accept the job, tell them in an eloquent manner that you need a few days to think it over. You sound like a smart person, so i am sure you will think of a clever manner to tell them should they ask.