Hey Ashley, yes, you should signal that you are in another late-stage process, but do it to manage timelines rather than to posture. When an employer asks about other processes, say something like, "I'm in final rounds elsewhere and expect clarity within about two weeks, so I'm trying to keep timelines aligned." You do not need to name the company or share numbers until you have a written offer, and sharing only the timing usually preserves leverage without oversharing. This also gives them a reason to accelerate interviews or approvals if they are serious.
For Company A asking for salary expectations, give a range that reflects your target and your floor, and ground it in total compensation. Example phrasing: "For a mid-level product role in this market, I'm targeting total compensation of X to Y depending on scope, with base in the A to B range, plus bonus and equity." Immediately follow with your timeline: "I'm in late stages elsewhere with a two-week decision window. Can we align on next steps and whether you can move on comp approval in that timeframe?" For Company B in final rounds, proactively mention the same timing and ask for their compensation band early so you can confirm fit before an offer. Once you have a written offer, you can share key details selectively to negotiate, like base, equity, and start date, but avoid quoting unverifiable numbers or bluffing. Keep the tone positive and interest-forward, make clear you would prefer to land where the role and team fit best, and you will avoid burning bridges while keeping options open.
