I have a second face to face interview with a chain pharmacy. I am applying for residency as well. I am going to attend the interview anyways. And I am pretty sure they are going to ask me if I am planning to apply for residency or not. Could someone please word it out for me how I should answer that question. I read the posts and many of them mention to say I am keeping my options open. But during my first interview I mentioned to the interviewer that I am applying for residency but I am open to options, he gave a weired look. So I dont know. Any help would be appreciated.
I think explaining that you are considering residency is important. You CAN always lie (so long as they are not asking you to sign a binding contract) but be aware that can burn bridges in the future should you end up backing out. The safest answer in that situation (in my opinion) is, I am willing to accept an offer without signing an agreement but please understand I am pursuing residency and if I match (binding agreement), I will have to back out of an offer.
Employers encounter this every year. I am sure most understand (although I'm sure some would blacklist you at the mention of residency). You will not be the first nor the last. If you are concerned you won't get a residency for whatever reason, it may be better to never mention the residency. Just again, be aware of that potential to burn bridges.
Bottom line is there is NO right answer. YOU have to determine based on your relationship with the company what the best option is. In my case, I worked for a chain for 5 years, was good friends with the recruiter and primary hiring manager. I explicitly told them my interest in retail AND my intent to pursue residency. They explained they could not offer a full time position but would keep a part time position open for me regardless of whether I matched or not. I ended up matching and have never looked back.