Should I tell the firm I’m interviewing with that I got rejected from another firm?

Question

I’m applying to 2 MBB firms. While I received rejection from a firm recently, I’m still interviewing with another firm. I’ve spoken with a few people working there and they know that I’m applying for both firms.

I’m wondering how to answer the “are you applying to other firm” question during interview. Should I be honest (I applied twice, made it to the final round once and first round for the other one), or could I just say I’m still waiting for the update from the other firm? What would be the best communication plan? I don’t want to look bad by saying that I have been rejected already. Any thoughts on this? Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi there,

Is the company you are interviewing with the only one you have left?

If so, if they ask if you are interviewing with others, you can simply say: “Not at the moment as you are my favourite company. I will apply to others only in case I won’t be extended an offer, as [COMPANY NAME] is my first choice”.

They are not asking you about previous applications but current ones, so no need to mention previous rejections.

Hope this helps,

Francesco

Answer 2

Francesco is outlining a very elegant way to respond to this type of question.

In addition, I'd like to put your mind at ease a little bit more: this will most likely not be a topic of conversation. Any MBB firm is testing for very specific things in their interview process. Whether or not you're applying successfully or unsuccessfully to other MBB isn't one of them.

As for the interviewers themselves, all they have is your CV and that's it. Whatever you discussed about your status with other people won't be part of the brief to the interviewer about you as a candidate.

Best of luck for the interview!

Answer 3

Hey there,

In MBB, this question will not be part of the interview since they know 99% of candidates apply at all the other firms as well.

This will only be relevant if you are extended an offer and hesitant to sign. Then they will ask and get nervous. :-)

Cheers,

Florian

Answer 4

Hello!

First of all, I don´t think you will be asked that question. That is typically something asked in a follow-up email.

However, if you do, I wouldn´t give that visibility, and emphasize that that comapany is without doubts your numbr one choice.

Hope it helps!

Cheers,

Clara

Answer 5

Hi there,

There is such a thing as a white lie in the professional/interview world :)

You don't need to mention anything! Just say you are not currently interviewing with others as you're happy with the current role but this firm is particularly appealing to you.

Answer 6

Just say: not at the moment, you are my priority.