Should I tell a possible job I'm interviewing somewhere else?

[tjdee]

Poll question: Should I tell a possible job I'm interviewing somewhere else?

Especially if I really want the other job?
Got an interview tomorrow at (Place #2), with a very nice woman I have already informally spoke with. I interviewed today with the job I would prefer (#1). I won't know about #1 until Wednesday or Thursday. If #2 offers me the job tomorrow should I:

[tjdee]

1. But what reason do I give for letting them know later in the week?

If asked, I should be honest, right?
So why not just say I'm interviewing elsewhere? Well...I know why. But ...

[Misunderestimator]

2. Since you are actually waiting to hear from another company...

I'd say that you are. It makes you more desirable to this other company. Make sure that you frame it in a way that doesn't make it seem you will prefer the other job, but just that you are weighing your options.

If they are willing to offer you the job, they should be willing to wait a couple of days for your decision. I've interviewed many candidates for jobs, and them telling me that they have other offers and need to wait a few days only makes them more desirable.

You could also accept this job, and then turn it down later. As long as you haven't signed anything yet, there are no strings. On the other hand, if you wait, you may be able to negotiate for more money.