> I go on an interview and someone at the company asks me very officiously, "Why do you want to work for this company?" I respond, "I don't know that I do want to work here. I have a job. The headhunter called me and told me there was an opportunity here so I came to check it out". The interviewer didn't say anything, but their expression was slightly shocked. I guess I was supposed to launch into a pitch about how it was always my dream to work at that company.
I rather see it differently. As you said, you have a job and the head hunter told you that this company had opportunities. So common sense dictates that you check briefly what they have to offer before going to the interview. Is it a better pay (you could tell the recruiter "I am currently making X, what would they be willing to offer?"), the chance to use a technology you don't use at your current work place, or you really like what the company is doing - if it's Planetary Resources or Khan Academy that would be understandable.
So if I was the interviewer, I would be surprised about that guy who comes to the interview without bothering to check what's on the table. Apart from that, I agree with you that the recruiting process of many companies is partly designed to show who is the boss, and it's a sad thing IMHO.
This. And you could do it both ways, too. "I'm very interested in learning X technology, and my background with Y skillset makes me a good fit. From what I can see, this seems like a cool company. That said, one of your people contacted me first, so I'm here to find out more about the position."
I rather see it differently. As you said, you have a job and the head hunter told you that this company had opportunities. So common sense dictates that you check briefly what they have to offer before going to the interview. Is it a better pay (you could tell the recruiter "I am currently making X, what would they be willing to offer?"), the chance to use a technology you don't use at your current work place, or you really like what the company is doing - if it's Planetary Resources or Khan Academy that would be understandable.
So if I was the interviewer, I would be surprised about that guy who comes to the interview without bothering to check what's on the table. Apart from that, I agree with you that the recruiting process of many companies is partly designed to show who is the boss, and it's a sad thing IMHO.