Should I tell a company they’re my top choice?

Anonymous

November 4,2021 at 1:58PM UTC

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Should I tell a company they’re my top choice?

I’ve made it pretty far with this company - what seems to be the end of the interview process. And now the hiring manager has reached out and said she would like to contact my references versus having HR do so. She asked me if I was I was looking at another position, and by that I’m assuming she means offer (which I’m not). I’m going to let her know I’m actively interviewing, but that the company still remains my top choice.

Should I tell her that? Does it show that I’m really interested, or just eager at this point?

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AnonymousNovember 4,2021 at 2:33PM UTC
As an internal recruiter, I appreciate hearing this. It lights a fire under my butt to get the next step moving as it's not easy finding ppl who truly want to be a part of a brand.
Emmy BemmyNovember 4,2021 at 2:34PM UTC
I wouldn't say they are my "top choice". I would just say that you are highly interested in the job and company and the interview process has just reinforced/strengthened this. I would tell her that you are actively interviewing. If she asks if you have any offers, just say you aren't to that point with your other interviews.
AnonymousNovember 4,2021 at 3:28PM UTC
I approach every opportunity with the attitude that it is my top choice. Would you want to be told that you are the second-best candidate? No way! So treat every organization and opportunity as though it is your top choice. The truth is: there are many factors that go into making a job and an organization great--and you don't know if your #2 and #3 (and on down) have the perfect combo to BE your #1--so assume that they ARE your #1 while you interact; you will be more likely to interview well with that vibe.
Kirsten BunchNovember 4,2021 at 4:37PM UTC
Honesty wins (almost) every time. Be authentic.
AnonymousNovember 4,2021 at 5:13PM UTC
I used the phrase 'this is the position I'm targeting' during my interview with a place from which I got an offer (they subsequently rescinded the offer, sadly)--I found it to be a powerful phrase to use and, I believe, was one reason that I got the offer. People want to be wanted. All of us! Targeting a position also doesn't mean you're not applying to other things, but I think, again, it's a strong show of interest and lets hiring committees know that you've identified THIS job as the one you want most.
Peggie Arvidson * Career Consultant | Adoptee Advocate | RecruiterNovember 5,2021 at 1:24PM UTC
I like the phrase, "I'm targeting this opportunity" or simply saying the truth - "I'd love to continue this process and I am continuing my job search to ensure I find the ideal fit for me and the organization that hires me."
As a recruiter, knowing that someone is also interviewing somewhere else helps me light a fire under a client - to let them know it's not a sure thing and they need to get an offer out if they want you.
Lesa Edwards, Career Coach & Master Resume WriterNovember 5,2021 at 1:47PM UTC
I encourage my clients to use phrases like "I'm still very interested in the opportunity with COMPANY, " or "I've received another offer and I wanted to touch base with you before I accept their offer." You lessen your competitive advantage if they know they are your first choice, so let them know they are a top choice (but not THE choice).
Lynda BoothNovember 6,2021 at 3:06AM UTC
Thank her for asking and let her know that you are actively interviewing. Also, let her know that you are still very interested in the opportunity to join her team and you hope to hear from her with a decision soon.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistDecember 3,2021 at 6:30PM UTC
I would let her know you are actively interviewing and I would absolutely let her know her company is your first choice. Companies and hiring managers love hearing that you're enthusiastic about their company, not that you're just looking for any job.