Mentioning Significant Other in Interview?
So, I'm looking for some advice for my on-site interview next week. I've been going back and forth in my head on whether or not to mention that my girlfriend lives in the city I'm interviewing in and that being one of the drivers that led me to apply to the firm I'm interviewing with. Any thoughts?
To give you some background, it's a Corp Fin role at a F500 company in the south (think: Charlotte, Richmond, etc.). I genuinely think the role/ company would be a good opportunity for employment, but the fact that my gf (of 4 years) lives in the city is definitely driving my relocation efforts. I have a good network of friends in the area, but no family. I'd be moving from the NY metropolitan area to the south, so I think the question of "why [this city]?" is inevitable. I'm worried that the 'GF card' might raise some red flags, even if I articulate all the other reasons I want to work at the firm. As an additional caveat, my gf's father works at the company but is not involved with the group I'm interviewing with, but is my 'reference' for my application.
IMO I have three options: 1) Completely avoid the topic 2) Don't mention it up front, but if it comes up naturally go along with it 3) Be upfront about it
Anyone with experience in this situation have some advice?
When the question comes up, don't make it the main reason obviously, but would definitely mention it to underpin your commitment to moving city. Would suggest something like "I see great potential in this city at a professional level for X, Y and Z reasons. But on a personal level my girlfriend and some family live here, so it would be a great opportunity for me to get closer to them in the longer term." and thereby show you have a long term commitment to the role.
Agree with @TommyGunn
Telling interviewer you want to be in City X because of girlfriend? (Originally Posted: 07/10/2015)
This may honestly be a stupid question, but I'm really not sure. I'm a rising senior in undergrad, looking for full time jobs. I know my girlfriend is going to be working in City X next year (not where I live). Naturally, I'd ideally like to work in the same city as her and am applying to a lot of jobs in City X, but obviously I wouldn't turn down a good job somewhere else.
So, is it a good idea to tell companies I'm talking to (that have positions in City X) that I ideally want to be in City X because my girlfriend is there? Will that come off as relatable and show I'm extra interested in the position, or will it make me sound childish and short-sighted? I'd be sure to stress that City X was just a preference and not a deal-breaker. Any opinions?
most likely you would know beforehand whether that position can be based in that particular city ... if yes, mention your preference. If no, don't.
I woud say I am looking to relocate back into the area to be closer to family ( I had a friend who was in a similar situation).
I would definitely say something along the lines of closer to family instead of girlfriend if that's the only reason you want to move to that city.
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