How to best answer this question in interveiw

Hey guys, would appreciate some thoughts.

I was recently interviewed at a fund but after several rounds, they picked a different candidate. The hiring manager then refers me to another fund that is recruiting. I am going to interview with them. 

My question is: if the interviewer ever asks......what is the best way to say how I get connected with the referer. I feel it is too blunt to say I was interviewed there but did not get the job or should I just say they are acquaintances (is it lying?)

Thank you. 

2 Comments
 

I don't know how likely that question will be, however you could find out information about the new company, and say that the referrer felt you would be a better fit for the new company's style of analysis, company culture, or something along those lines.

 
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