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Interview Question

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by vncoder

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Hello,

What would the "best" or "better" answer to give if this question is being asked at the interview:

"Does your current employer know that you are looking for another position?"

8 replies

by james r linn

The best answer is the honest one.

If you answer yes they could ask for a reference from your current employer.

If you answer no, they assume you can't get one.

James

by vncoder

I personally agree with telling the truth but if the truth is "no", then does that create question in the potential employer's mind "Can I trust this guy? Will he going to leave at any moment after I hired this guy?".

by james r linn

But I've been in the workforce for 20 years, and on many occasions have had successful interviews. Usually the assumption is that you haven't told your employer. Some employers will walk you to the door if you give notice.

What you want to do, isdo some homework on the company you are interviewing with and give them some compelling reasons why you think you can do better there than where you are - it could be work environment, better career opportunities, more interesting technology challenges etc.

I've never told an employer I am leaving until I have a letter of offer and a firm start date in hand - and some employers have rehired me. I think most employers expect this to be the norm.

James

by timwalsh

The truth is ALWAYS the best course, even if it hurts once in a while.

This type of question is likely to lead to 1 of 2 possible follow-on questions:
1. If you answer yes, the next question will likely be "Do you mind if I call your present employer for a reference?" It wouldn't look very good to then say you would mind or "Please don't call" unless you have a very good reason.
2. If you answer no, the next question will likely be "Why are you looking for another job?" Make sure you have some well thought out reasons. Also try not to bad-mouth or denigrate your present employer while giving your reasons. Doing so will inevitably come back to haunt you.

by zlitocook

Told the truth I am looking into a better position then I have now. And I explan why I am looking for a better and more productive job. Yes I tell them to call my present job but first I explan why I am looking. The director wanted me to do things that were not in the best interest of the company. Like installing non paid for soft ware.

by patsw1

The purpose of an interview is to determine the fitness of the candidate to the opening. If you want to show a little firmness of your own you can ask "What's your purpose in asking that question?" or "I have references, if that's your purpose in asking that question." or "If I accepted an offer I'd be able to work in x days/weeks, if that's your purpose in asking that question."

by james r linn

I'd not be happy with that answer - it could be interpreted as being defensive, impatient or deflecting. Of course it depends to an extent on the tone.

But I'd be happiest with a straight answer. Does your employer know, yes or no? The follow up question will show the reason why. Wait for it, patiently.

James

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