Hiring managers and recruiters will ask this question. It's almost never in your interest and it's not all about the money anyway.
The question “Tell me about your other offers” is common in interviews, but answering it in detail isn’t in the candidate’s best interest. Recruiters and hiring managers use this information for competitive research and salary negotiations, often to the candidate’s disadvantage. The best strategy is to politely decline by saying it’s confidential or not appropriate to share. Smiling and maintaining a warm demeanor help prevent the response from seeming rude or evasive. If a candidate has no other offers, being honest about it is perfectly acceptable.
If the interviewer presses further, deflection is another effective technique. Responses like “I have comparable offers” without elaboration can satisfy curiosity while maintaining discretion. However, being too open can invite more probing questions, leading to an unnecessary discussion about details. Instead, candidates should stick to vague but positive wording, keeping the conversation professional and non-committal. Avoiding specifics prevents hiring managers from using the information to offer the lowest acceptable salary.
Some recruiters might try to extract details by claiming they need the information to make a better offer. Candidates should resist this tactic by reinforcing that their decision is based on the entire package, not just salary. Ethical negotiation is key—fabricating or inflating offers is not advisable. Handling this question with confidence and diplomacy ensures that candidates remain in control of their job search. Want to learn how to navigate this tricky topic with ease? Listen to The Interviewing Series for in-depth advice.
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