Dear Cindy – Interview Expenses?

When someone has to travel for an interview, who pays the cost?

Sincerely,

DC

It could go either way – the job seeker or the prospective employer. And even if the employer pays, not every employer covers the same things.

For example, you may want to visit a specific town before accepting an offer, but the employer may be content with telephone or video-conferencing interviews. In this case, they may welcome you to visit, but on your own nickel.

In all cases, if it's a short driving distance (or short trip on a commuter train), don't expect – and don't ask for – a reimbursement.

With recruitment companies, it varies. For short distances, like any other job, you cover your own costs. If it's a long distance, the company will usually cover your transportation (air, train, or mileage) and accommodations (if necessary), but may not cover meals.

Before you go, clear up who is paying for what. If the employer is paying, keep detailed records and, wherever possible, receipts of meals, accommodations, taxis, tips, and/or gas/mileage. Above all, don't submit receipts for any personal expenses, expensive meals with alcohol, or anything that wasn't agreed upon in advance.

And another word of advice – though you'd never think of doing it – don't abuse the employer by padding costs. When I worked for a recruitment company, we had people fly in to town regularly. Most took an airport cab (which is reasonable), and a few really impressed us by taking the less expensive airport bus – but then there was the one person who took it upon herself to hire a stretch limo at our expense. And there was the person for whom we were going to cover costs of hotel and meals – but he had company at dinner, and charged both meals to us. Doing such things can give an employer a better measure of your true quality than the actual interview did. Or to put it more simply, it really leaves an impression: A bad one that lasts!