What do you say when you are being interviewed?
James Olson
Updated on April 01, 2026
Here are five things to say at the beginning of your interview:
- It’s nice to meet you.
- Thank you for meeting with me today.
- I’ve read the job description.
- I’ve researched your company.
- I’d like to learn more about the company.
- This job sounds interesting.
- The job description aligns perfectly with my qualifications.
How do you tell an interviewer you have another interview?
How to tell your interviewer you have another offer
- Give yourself time to think. When you receive an offer, it’s common to ask for at least one day and up to a week to consider the terms.
- Be professional.
- Share what is necessary in early interviews.
- Be transparent in the final interviews.
- Show gratitude.
How long should an interviewer wait?
Typically, it’s best to give interviewers five business days to contact you. That means if you interview on a Thursday, you would wait until the following Thursday to reach out. This could mean you are waiting a week or longer before you get a response from the hiring company, provided they do reply.
What if interviewer is late?
Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then attempt calling the interviewer. After 15 to 20 minutes have passed, you should give the interviewer a call at the number that was provided. This can allow you to immediately speak with the interviewer if they answer to either reschedule or begin the interview.
How do I ask if Im shortlisted?
How to Ask Interview Status: More Tips and Advice
- Keep it short, specific, and to the point.
- Be professional. Avoid unnecessary details.
- Don’t come across as desperate.
- Don’t accuse or attack the contact for making you wait.
- Give HR at least 3 days to reply.
- Waiting to hear an interview result is tough.
What does it mean that a job I interviewed for was re…?
There is a fair bit of zen-like thinking that comes into play with job searching – relax into the knowledge that if it’s right, it will happen and if it doesn’t happen, then it wasn’t right. Or something along those lines. Good stuff! I’ve been watching two positions at 2 different Fortune 500 companies get listed over. and over. and over.
What to say when you don’t know what position you are interviewing for?
I recommend emailing your contact and using some variation of: “I’m a big fan of your company, and I would be flexible in terms of roles and departments. Should I prepare for any specific open positions you are considering me for, or is this more of a general meeting?”
What should I send after a job interview?
I’m very excited about the opportunity to work with you and your team. The [job position] role sounds exciting and is a role I believe I’d excel in thanks to my [experience or skill that would help you succeed in their job]. I look forward to hearing your feedback.
How to prepare for a specific job interview?
Should I prepare for any specific open positions you are considering me for, or is this more of a general meeting?” If you hear back that you’re being interviewed for a specific position: great. You’re all set (and you should start working on our Interview Prep Guide !). If not, keep reading.