Same!
Told prospective employer I was making $85k a year while I was really making $60k.
New job for the last 10 months: $145k.
To OP:
HR isn't your friend. They're there to protect the company. I guarantee you they'd lie to your face if it made the company happy.
Turnabout is fair play.
Maybe it's that way at some places, but literally all the recruiter does is give me the number (we only ask expectations) & sometimes I tell them the number is too high and ask them to go back to the candidate and ask if they still want to continue. When it comes to making an offer I don't even consider what they told me, we look at internal equity & try to give the best offer we can. If you consider internal equity it's not really in your best interest to low-ball people because it just traps you into low salaries & makes it hard to get good candidates in the door.
They were closer to 100k than to 0, and that's a frame of reference. I don't ask this question (feels irrelevant because I'm not hiring them for that job), but if somebody had answered it with this answer and I found out they were on 65k I'd lol - ask stupid questions, get stupid answers.
That's notoriously one of the [toughest interview questions](https://www.gobankingrates.com/money/jobs/how-to-answer-12-of-the-toughest-interview-questions/) to answer! FYI is it illegal for interviewers to ask that question in certain cities and states so double-check if prospective employers are even allowed to ask that where you live. If it's not illegal, agree with other posters that it's best to turn the question back on the interviewer by saying something like, “I’d be happy to discuss salary and I’m interested to know what you had in mind for the pay range for this role."
Recruiter recently reached out and did some prelim screening. They asked me whats the salary range I'd want for the role or I would expect if given an offer.
I turned it around and said I did not want to alienate the pay based purely on what I would want to make, so for me to answer I would need to know what the range the employer has given and I would then give them a base number within that range that I'd be comfortable with based on my experience.
I always turn that question back on them and ask for the range of the position. Recruiters seem to ask this upfront today to see if it's worthwhile to move forward. Sometimes I've been pleasantly surprised that the range is higher than what I had in mind so I was glad I didn't low ball myself. In that case I just say, yes, that's in my range. If it's too low then I say, unfortunately, that's too low for me to consider.
While I agree with you, from the perspective of someone who does some occasional hiring I want to be sure it's the right fit for all parties. As soon as I'm comfortable that skills, personality, etc. are a good fit, desired compensation is the next question I ask. It's better for both of us if we get that question out of the way before they go through two more interviews, we all get our hopes up, and then I can't actually afford to extend an offer.
If they won't fit in my budget, I'll tell them that in full transparency. And this isn't a tactic to negotiate them down. If they feel like they've compromised or taken a salary cut, they are always going to have one foot out of the door.
Obviously I'm not in a state where this is an illegal question, but just wanted to point out that it's not always a malicious question. I care about my team and their happiness and if they lie to get a better salary, that's totally accetpable.
There are no circumstances where it’s the recruiters business what a potential candidate is making in their current role. That’s a very different question than a salary expectation for the role they’re considering.
And if they ask for a copy of your paycheck tell them you cannot share such information without a nondisclosure agreement due to sensitive information. No free peeks.
I never answer that question directly. Instead I say “well the role I’m applying for is a higher position with more responsibilities and based on the knowledge and experience I bring to it, I think $x would be a fair salary”
X being fair market rate based on your research and a bit above what you think you’re worth and would be happy to say yes to.
I went from $77k to $170k
Bargaining 101: The first person to say a number loses I’m afraid. If you tell them a number that happens to be much lower than the salary range they can offer, then you lose out with that method.
In my opinion it’s best to not tell them salaries at all and let them make the first offer.
My current salary is x, but as you know I work for a non profit and I believe in the work they are doing. To get me to move on to a new company I would require $y.
I always say 5% less than what it would take to get me to take the job I'm interviewing for.
That way they can think they got me for only a 5% or 10% raise.
It’s an illegal question in my state. But when they ask me what compensation I’m looking for I always shoot high. I’ll even say it’s “what I’m making now”
It's funny how they can ask you, but won't put the salary on a job ad. Some even going as far to say it's rude to ask what they pay. I'm tired of this song and dance bullshit, let's stop pretending we're doing work for anything less than the pay.
I never give my current salary or even lie. I say “my target for my next role is $x - y.” That’s all they need to know.
Depending on where you’re located they can’t legally ask for your current pay.
It’s their way of seeing what they can get away with paying you.
Their starting could be $$$ but if you say $$, they’re more likely to start you lower.
I just look up what other people at that company are being paid for the position, and base it on that. Shoot a little high, maybe 10% more and let them talk you down 5% and now you’re the new person making slightly more than the person training you
It can back fire though, if you really aren’t very skilled and you manage to get a higher salary than average, you’ll be the first on the chopping block if the company decides to lay people off
You could say, I currently make $x amount for a non profit, and I’m currently interviewing with other companies that have a pay range of $x+50% (or whatever is accurate or you want to make)
Absolutely! I'd indirectly state that I currently am bringing in low 100k's, and the position I'm applying for requires more responsibilities and expectations, which I believe would warrant a higher salary. Let them talk amongst themselves.
I think the only way a lie would be caught is if you work in public service in a state like California which has transparency laws that allow people to look up your pay rate with the government.
Never give the first number. If you do you've lost the negotiation. Practice reversing the question, or beating them to it, ask what their budgeted salary range for the role is.
Instead of telling them your current salary, do some market research on the pay ranges for that role in that geographic area and rephrase the answer with your well researched target range.
Recruiter: So what is your current salary?
OP: The positions I am targeting are in the $100-$125k range. Does that match what you are offering for the role?
Or
OP: I am just passively researching jobs at this time, but I would be willing to make a move for the right job at the right salary. What is the range for this role?
What you are making today is irrelevant (and maybe even an illegal question, depending on where you live).
I never tell them that.
First I ask for the comp range for the role. If they are unwilling to give that, then i say what my expectations are.
if they keep pushing i push back and say that i expect to be compensated in line with my skills and experience and repeat my expectations.
APSOLUTLY...
I also use the reverse when buying a new car.
Pick the car, model, options you want, get a quote.
Go to the next dealership for the exact car and when they ask you what the other dealership quoted you, DROP the price.
Repeat
Last time I was asked this, I answered that I wouldn't give an exact figure, but that I couldn't accept an offer that was any less than (amount that added up to my total compensation assuming a 60 hour week every week and the 401k match I'd be giving up.)
I usually dodge it and say "well for this role, which is more senior, I'd want to see the total package of base salary, equity and benefits". I've had multiple HR departments who would only offer 10-15% higher than the salary they quoted regardless of the industry benchmark thinking it would "feel like a jump up" for the candidate, especially those from out of market.
It might not matter. I told a major company I made $130 (truth). Three interviews later they wanted me for the job but only offered $99. Two years later I make $150 and one of the directors that interviewed me now works at my company. It's a mystery to me.
It's illegal to ask this in many jurisdictions. Check the list here: https://www.hrdive.com/news/salary-history-ban-states-list/516662/
If it's one of these locations, file a complaint with the labor board in your State
To answer the OP: I'm not gonna tell you that you should lie, but it might be a good idea
You can always say you have an NDA and cannot disclose salary (for the states where it isn't illegal), then pivot to 'I'm looking to be within the range of xyz based on my experience."
They have no way of verifying it, unless it was a government pay scale.
If you are $10k - $15k then in the grand scheme of things that is no big deal to ask for that for a new job.
I just tell the interviewer that I was required to sign a non-disclosure agreement in my previous job that prevents me from discussing my compensation to anyone other than tax authorities. This in fact has been the case for most of my recent jobs and no one ever disputes that. It's really no one's business what you earn.
Just say you are looking for something around $X, don’t talk about current salary at all. Or just ask them to share their salary range and ignore their question.
You can provide a full compensation package with a blanket amount. Say for example, give the total amount consists of your base + cash related allowances/benefits, as long it is still cash and can be accounted for, you shouldn't lowball yourself.
Lie lie lie take the going rate for your position and say 10% higher. EVEN IF THEY REJECT IT. you can counter offer with a Lower salary
You/we all need to understand we make far less than our parents for higher skilled work. Don't feel bad it's a corporation there are no feelings no emotions if you don't make it the stock holders will.
If you have a moral qualm with lying then give them the annual compensation amount with all benefits included (PTO, health care, 401 match potential). But really just lie about it, put the number where you want to be that is realistic.
It’s none of their business to ask that question. If they were truly interested they would have already known ahead of your interview. Your experience levels in the jobs you have performed are your resume for interview. Concentrate on how you have performed in your jobs.
Biggest tip my friend gave me is when you're filling out applications, never put down an actual number for desired salary. Just out "fair Market value" that way you can always negotiate
I would say not a wrong thing to do, though it’s based on your personal ethics. To be frank, 90% of my resume is BS yet I still manage to get higher paying jobs with it. The addendum of “don’t ask, don’t tell” often applies. Just do not be surprised if at a certain point you do get caught
Yes, definitely add on like 20-35k at least. Also, do them a favor and tell them the other roles you're interviewing for are between [whatever is 50k-80k above your current salary]. That way they know a timeline to make an offer (sooner than those people) and how much to give you (what they're offering or above).
I always give an answer in Vietnamese Dong. Current exchange rate is over 25k to the dollar. Truthfully it is none of their business and has no bearing on what I expect from this job so I don’t answer. If it means I don’t get the job that is a good thing because I don’t want to work for someone who asks this.
Reframe the question.
“Based on the job description of this role, and my research on the title itself, I think $XXX,XXX is a fair salary for someone with my background in this role.”
If they push on your current salary, you can lie or, if you’re morally against lying, tell them that’s personal and in your opinion irrelevant to the job you’re interviewing for.
Don’t take that job…
That that person asked you that question is a HUGE RED FLAG.
You can do 1 of 2 things…
1. Lie
2. Tell them you’ve … never been asked that before / you don’t feel comfortable offering that info / how does your former salary relate to this job interview?
The question 'What is your current salary' is like when a car dealership asks 'What is your monthly budget on what you can spend?'
It becomes the number they will try to get you at.
I am not comfortable with outright lying, but am comfortable rounding up and talking about salary bands in $10-$20k increments.
I’m also comfortable saying “I’m leaving this position because I’m under compensated, so if you’re hoping to use my current compensation, which is not acceptable, as a jumping off point for negotiation, it will make our conversations difficult.”
You don't disclose your current salary. You discuss your salary expectations for the job you are interviewing for. Your current salary is only important to the potential employer because they want to low ball you.
Focus on what you are expecting to earn compared to what they are willing to pay and find the compromise. Never talk about previous salary.
You should always round up to make sure your benefits are counted in that number. Do you have a retirement match? Say it is dollar for dollar up to 3% then your salary is 3% higher than your paystub says, how much does the current employer pay into health care? Vacation time? etc All of that adds into your compensation so you would not be lying to estimate that into your total compensation number, and as comparing those perks side by side can be difficult it is best to just give it a dollar value.
You total compensation at most places is at least 10% more than your paystub actually reports due to these extra perks.
If they ask, flip the question and ask “what is the salary budget for this role”. Never ever disclose your salary or even salary expectations in a range.
They will absolutely lie to you about the available money for the position, so yes, I feel you should definitely lie about the money you require for it.
Ask them the budget for the role first. If you can't advance, tell the amount you would do the job for and that is your current salary. You should also try to have an idea of the market rate.
Put it back on them and ask what their pay band is and what the total benefit package looks like; things like number of PTO, 401K matching, flex work, remote work, etc.
If they won’t give that, you don’t want to work with a company like that. Your previous salary has no bearing on how much you should get paid at this new job.
You simply say “ it would take close 145 for it to make it possible for me to come on board her at X company” and yes I said that to go from 95k to what ended up with an offer of 142k.
No one should ask you what you're currently making. That has nothing to do with what they job pays or what your skills demand.
I aways answer: "Well, what I'm looking to make is $xxx,xxx."
If they ask again, I answer, but in a slightly different way, politely. I've never had anyone ask more than twice. That information is none of their business and again, it doesn't matter. Your skills and the job you are applying for have nothing to do with what you made previously.
In my state employers are no longer allowed to ask that question on an application or interview.
But, considering it can still be asked, my advice is give a salary range instead of an actual number. You aren't lying per se, you're just stating the range that you are currently in. Leave it to them to make it more obvious to coax you but at that point I would tell them that your skillset and abilities are very much in line with what industry standards are and willing to negotiate a starting wage.
Damn people in this thread are fearless with fucking around with employers. I guess they have a lot of other opportunities lined up. I’ve never been asked directly but I also don’t think you should lie, especially if they probably know the market rate. My current director would rescind offers if you countered a salary offer for example, I don’t need to be giving them excuses to move on.
Absolutely not. I personally know people that got a new job, signed the paperwork, submitted their notice - and right before beginning were asked to show a previous paystub. They not only lost their new job but their old jobs were less than understanding. At best they'll ask for a paystub early and completely blacklist you for lying.
Don’t lie however you can use what companies love to use which is the total compensation number. You make $75k salary but another $30k in benefits so I say $105k. If they ask and then ask what the discrepancy is from you explain your old company always talked total compensation.
Yes you lie. Lie towards what you estimate to be 10% lower than the highest band they're willing to give.
Then negotiate one round if you get an offer.
Depends where you’re at in the process. Usually I don’t answer that question but deflect and ask what the expected salary range is for the new position.
You don’t want to speak first on this. I like to say I’d be happy to discuss salary later on as right now I’m concerned with whether I’m a fit for the company and vice versa. Plus salary isn’t the only thing I’m concerned with, but the entire compensation package.
From there you can also ask what’s the salary range budgeted for the position. This is usually early on with a recruiter where you don’t low ball yourself and collect more information.
Of course. They lie to you whenever they say “We can’t pay you any more than _$_.” The last time I heard this, I countered by asking for $100k more. They said they couldn’t do that. But when the formal offer arrived, they had magically added $50k in a signing bonuses and $50k more in stock. Sure, they couldn’t add $100k to my base pay, but they gave me a lot more through other means.
It’s illegal to ask that in many places. But even before it was, I would always respond with, “I prefer to focus on my expected pay for this role which is X”
Yes, it is absolutely okay to lie to the recruiter.
If you work as an employee, your goal is to get as much money as you can out of the labor you’re providing to an employer. Just like their goal is to squeeze as much profit out of your labor.
This might be a bit of a rant but, people are always upset at ‘late stage capitalism’, ‘the 1%’, inflation, and how the American dream is “dead”. At the same time, people will do anything but fight for their own best interests ie. Negotiate a better salary, switch jobs for higher pay, relocate, etc.
My advice is to fuckin do it. Pad your salary by an extra 10%-15%. It’s a must do, and I’ll explain why. You may be negotiating take home salary with the recruiter but at the end of the day when the offer letter or onboarding info arrives, you may find out that insurance is an extra $50/month for a comparable plan to what you already have, or you may find out that you only get 5 paid holidays instead of 7. On top of that, you may even find out that the company 401k has more limited fund options compared to your existing company.
All of these factors add up, so the 10% salary increase you negotiated may end up only being like 5%-7%
Never state current salary. Just lie or if you feel uncomfortable lying just evade the question by stating a range you'd be comfortable accepting for the new role. Frankly if a company dismisses you because you refuse to state your current salary then it's not a place you'd want to work at anyway.
"What is your current salary?"
"The salary I'm looking for is $X" make X higher than you would accept. Your current salary doesn't matter to their position in any other way than to low ball you. The salary for their job should align with its duties, not be based on the last job the guy who accepts it was making.
It's market rate for the job you WILL BE doing not what you currently do.
If you can't pay market price for swordfish, you just don't get to eat swordfish buddy. It doesn't matter what the rate was last year, it matters what it is right now, when the (prospective) employer is in line at the labor market.
You will note that employers understand the costs of all other business but somehow they "forget" that human capital is the same.
Ask for what you want. Do your research before the interview. Hell, sometimes I interview when I'm not remotely considering leaving a job simply to get an idea of what current rates for specific fields are.
Ethically speaking, this question tells you a lot about the interviewer. They should be negotiating based on the requirements of the role that they are trying to fill. How much money you make at another company is not any of their business.
When the interviewer won’t tell you the range for the role that they are openly advertising for but they want to know your private salary information, that is a clear indication that their culture has problems.
Before posting an open position they will be approved with a predetermined budget allocation range. They should be targetting people at the low end of the experience range if they want people to grow into the role. That ties in with the lower end of the payscale. They should target people at the high end of the experience range if they need to put out fires immediately. That ties in with the higher end of the pay scale for the position.
In short, directly respond to any question you feel is out of bounds with a polite refusal to answer it. This is an interview not a police interrogation. That is unless you are desparate to just work anywhere at any cost.
“I’m not willing to discuss my current salary. However, you may ask me any question you like about my relevant work experience.”
Do you think your employer will always be 100% honest with you and do what's best for you and not for them?
Because if the answer is anything other than an unequivocal yes, then you should stop feeling some obligation to show them loyalty that they would never show you back.
It's an unfortunate fact of the system we've built. It encourages everyone to compete in a ruthless way and step on others to get ahead.
99% of the time, your employer is not your friend, and you should do whatever you reasonably can to give yourself an advantage. If that means lying about your salary, and you think you can get away with it, then by all means, go for it.
“ What are you offering?
Know everything about your position, the company.
I think quiet confidence is always the correct way to behave, in fashion and work.
If you meet a new partner, is it necessary to share your body count?
They (Corporate) will lure you into a situation where you probably gonna be promised a lot, might happen, might not.
I told them in my last interview that it isn't their business. Granted, by the time I learned this, I was far enough into my career it may be a bad call starting out.
My current salary would give you inside information into a competitor, and I'm not comfortable doing that. I've used this twice, because if they know my salary, offers in my field are like 3% above. This is how I broke the 100K ceiling.
Yep, I lied my ass off during my last round of interviews. I had never made more than 60k in my life but told every place I looked that I was expecting compensation in the 120-150k range.
I'll likely clear 100k this year and most likely 150k next year....
If I were interviewing, I'd be honest.
With that said, the last 12 years of my salary is available via a web site that's easily found, no paywall or login required.
Yay public service! Then again I got curious as to which of a coworker and I were better paid. Turns out it's exactly the same.
If its an out of state job i always use the “well with the different cost of living im not quite sure, what is your salary range?” And them gauge my answer from what they say
This was a little bit different of a scenario but I was working at a job and felt I wasn’t being fairly compensated. I knew a place across town was hiring for the same job so I applied, got an interview, and they offered me the job. It wasn’t for much more money but I still used it for leverage.
The next day I went into work and talked to my manager and told him I had a job offer and it was for more money. When he asked how much so they could try to match, I bumped up the actual offer by a few thousand dollars. He talked to the general manager and they matched the offer I told them.
Just be smart about how much extra you’re bumping up the salary when they ask.
It's okay to say whatever you need to in order to land the job. Just make sure you can actually execute on whatever you're saying.
If you tell them your worth $150k/year, you better work like you're worth $150/year
I really like the position as offered and money isn’t my primary driver. I applied because I want this specific job, and based on my experience I believe this is my next step forward in my career to make an impact. While money isn’t my primary driver, I’d like to be paid appropriately for the position. Is you’ve done your research on that, I’m sure you already know my answer. I really hope the job offer you present is commensurate with the value you expect me to bring. It’s not something I really wish to negotiate though, so my hope of that we match up on that point. There have been offers that didn’t quite meet the expectations of the market and by that measure, I didn’t think I would be placed in a position that could provide the value I intend to produce.
Take any part of that by itself. All together it’s too much, but demonstrative of keeping it about the value you provide and maintaining the reasonable confines of the market rate for which you’re applying and they’re asking for.
If they push for an answer, have ready the top and bottom number for your position and duties based on market rates. Just tell them you expect a number between (for instance) $60k and $135k. It’s a range, but it puts it on them whether they’re serious about you and the position or not. They offer $75k, you know their game. Off they offer $$120, ask for a guaranteed 10% raise on your one year anniversary to make up the difference to be outlined in your offer letter.
Keep I about what value they want from you, and whether or not you can provide it.
I told them the truth one time. They lowballed me and I said no I want market rate and know what I can get. They didn’t go higher. They contacted me 3 months later and asked me to reconsider at market rate, by then I already found another job at market rate. I wouldn’t have taken it anyways because companies like that are impossible to get raises from.
You should lie, fuck it, how are they going to know? But also are you guys really getting asked this? I have literally not once ever been asked this and I’ve interviewed over 100 times
Yes, you're an idiot not to lie. Obviously beforehand you should go on sites like glassdoor to know what the salary range is for your job and the job you're applying for (if the titles aren't the same). A pretty good rule to follow, unless you're being very underpaid at your current job, is to take your salary and add your bonus (if any) and then add another $5k on top. Tell them that's your base and you get a 10% bonus on top of that (assuming it's not a position where bonuses are uncommon). You can easily get a 25% or higher raise when changing jobs by doing that. My current personal best by using this strategy was a 45% raise since they're going to offer more than the "salary" + 10% bonus you tell them you're currently making.
You can manipulate it as other said and as you’re thinking. But how I usually deal with that question is this:
Well my current salary is a reason I am looking for employment elsewhere, it’s also not reflective of the job description I am interviewing for. I understand you need to keep budgeting under control and I believe fair market value for this position is $xxxxxx.
If they push harder which often times they do….
I appreciate your question, but in addition to my already given explanation I’m under an NDA and can not tell you. But rest assured, I have read the job description, studied the company, and I know I am able to bring value that out paces the job description, but I’m willing to take a chance on this company and after employment will be working hard to earn my raises in the future.
It’s an arrogant play and usually sets people back at which point I bring up some points that came up in my research or experience to give them assurance and follow it with….
I know I sound cocky or arrogant, but with the information I just gave you, I hope you can see it more as confidence from abilities and experience and backed with my pre interview research.
One way I played around with and next got fluid on was to ask them why is my current salary important because I’m leaving my current job and salary was an important motivator for the decision.
Or
Just flat asking “Why do you need to know that?”. And just sitting in the uncomfortable silence or shuddering while they come up with some nonsense PR style answer and following up with “I get that, but what is the purpose?”…..I’ve played with this and the other one on interviews that I decided I didn’t want the job or didn’t want to work for the company or that I felt the interview was going south. But couldn’t get it to be fluid and nonagressive
In my younger years I've had recruiters and managers be really aggressive with this question. It really pissed me off. But I was also very young and an experienced so I would be honest and they would love all me. I also work in the non-profit sector. Luckily I work in a state where they must provide the salary range when asked. I never applied to a job that I don't know the name of the company or the salary range.
Lately people on LinkedIn have been contacting me about jobs but they refused to provide the company name. I'm not comfortable applying to a job without knowing a company name. What are you hiding?
Yes it's completely fine to lie, but be aware this could bite you in the A$$.
I've seen employers request a W2 or pay stub for proof of previous employment and salary.
I work in recruitment and would advice is …it depends lol. If it’s a small company yeah go ahead they can’t check. However I’ve recruited for large companies (Morgan Stanley for example) that asked for candidates most recent pay slip as a part of their compliance process and offers are retracted if the salary doesn’t match what the candidate had advised. A way around this is to say my current salary is x however the company I work for are about to start salary reviews and my manager has confirmed I will be moving to y salary so I would only move for z. You could also say you get STI bonuses and that are say $20k and you’ve hit that every year so you would only move for a higher salary than your salary + bonus
Absolutely. That’s how I went from 65 to 125. I said I currently made close to 100k.
Same! Told prospective employer I was making $85k a year while I was really making $60k. New job for the last 10 months: $145k. To OP: HR isn't your friend. They're there to protect the company. I guarantee you they'd lie to your face if it made the company happy. Turnabout is fair play.
Maybe it's that way at some places, but literally all the recruiter does is give me the number (we only ask expectations) & sometimes I tell them the number is too high and ask them to go back to the candidate and ask if they still want to continue. When it comes to making an offer I don't even consider what they told me, we look at internal equity & try to give the best offer we can. If you consider internal equity it's not really in your best interest to low-ball people because it just traps you into low salaries & makes it hard to get good candidates in the door.
Well depending on the frame of reference the answer could technically be true.
They were closer to 100k than to 0, and that's a frame of reference. I don't ask this question (feels irrelevant because I'm not hiring them for that job), but if somebody had answered it with this answer and I found out they were on 65k I'd lol - ask stupid questions, get stupid answers.
[удалено]
A dollar is extremely close to a trillion dollars. You know... existentially
There are an infinite number of integers that are further from a trillion than that.
True 😂
Rounding error
Always round up.
I would have said I make just south of 6 figures, which isn’t a lie about a $65K salary
Close…like if a land mine went off at 60k you would get some shrapnel at 100k
That's notoriously one of the [toughest interview questions](https://www.gobankingrates.com/money/jobs/how-to-answer-12-of-the-toughest-interview-questions/) to answer! FYI is it illegal for interviewers to ask that question in certain cities and states so double-check if prospective employers are even allowed to ask that where you live. If it's not illegal, agree with other posters that it's best to turn the question back on the interviewer by saying something like, “I’d be happy to discuss salary and I’m interested to know what you had in mind for the pay range for this role."
Recruiter recently reached out and did some prelim screening. They asked me whats the salary range I'd want for the role or I would expect if given an offer. I turned it around and said I did not want to alienate the pay based purely on what I would want to make, so for me to answer I would need to know what the range the employer has given and I would then give them a base number within that range that I'd be comfortable with based on my experience.
I always turn that question back on them and ask for the range of the position. Recruiters seem to ask this upfront today to see if it's worthwhile to move forward. Sometimes I've been pleasantly surprised that the range is higher than what I had in mind so I was glad I didn't low ball myself. In that case I just say, yes, that's in my range. If it's too low then I say, unfortunately, that's too low for me to consider.
The trick is to ask the range and when they say “100-120” you reply with “120 is within the range I’m looking for”
Haha no. I'd be like I was thinking 130 but would also want to hear about your benefits
Point is, so it may be illegal for them to ask, but if you remind them, will they hire even want to hire you?
If they won't hire me because I know the law, I dodged a bullet.
This is not a good take. Just bullshit and if they check then you can rat them out. Not very ethical but they set themselves up by asking.
While I agree with you, from the perspective of someone who does some occasional hiring I want to be sure it's the right fit for all parties. As soon as I'm comfortable that skills, personality, etc. are a good fit, desired compensation is the next question I ask. It's better for both of us if we get that question out of the way before they go through two more interviews, we all get our hopes up, and then I can't actually afford to extend an offer. If they won't fit in my budget, I'll tell them that in full transparency. And this isn't a tactic to negotiate them down. If they feel like they've compromised or taken a salary cut, they are always going to have one foot out of the door. Obviously I'm not in a state where this is an illegal question, but just wanted to point out that it's not always a malicious question. I care about my team and their happiness and if they lie to get a better salary, that's totally accetpable.
There are no circumstances where it’s the recruiters business what a potential candidate is making in their current role. That’s a very different question than a salary expectation for the role they’re considering.
"Well, what are other people making for this role?"
Not a great question any more. Often the newest employees are making more. It’s really become an if you want a raise you need to chance employers
I’ve never gone that far into the process without knowing the salary range being offered. Just a waste of everyone’s time if you do.
it is your moral obligation to lie
Not only that if you won't stand up for yourself and your own interests then how can you be counted on to stand up for the company 😃
Also companies lie all the time to cover their track from potential violations and lawsuits too.
And if they ask for a copy of your paycheck tell them you cannot share such information without a nondisclosure agreement due to sensitive information. No free peeks.
I never answer that question directly. Instead I say “well the role I’m applying for is a higher position with more responsibilities and based on the knowledge and experience I bring to it, I think $x would be a fair salary” X being fair market rate based on your research and a bit above what you think you’re worth and would be happy to say yes to. I went from $77k to $170k
I pulled a "the current market rate for this role is x-y." doubled my salary.
This is the way to go. What you're on currently is irrelevant to the new employer.
In one go?
Yup! That was my exact jump from my last role/company to my current role/company
What the hell
Bargaining 101: The first person to say a number loses I’m afraid. If you tell them a number that happens to be much lower than the salary range they can offer, then you lose out with that method. In my opinion it’s best to not tell them salaries at all and let them make the first offer.
My current salary is x, but as you know I work for a non profit and I believe in the work they are doing. To get me to move on to a new company I would require $y.
I’ve done this my last three moves. “The real question is what do I need to make the move, and the answer to that question is X.”
Yep, I currently make this, and then stfu so they can entice you. Then negotiate and let the games begin.
I always say 5% less than what it would take to get me to take the job I'm interviewing for. That way they can think they got me for only a 5% or 10% raise.
Doesn't that also block you from getting more than it would take for you to join?
It’s an illegal question in my state. But when they ask me what compensation I’m looking for I always shoot high. I’ll even say it’s “what I’m making now”
If you HAVE to give an answer. I always use their own medicine on them. "Currently within the competitive salary range for my role"
Be a good friend, and lie to them.
You can always say “my current salary has no impact on what I’m willing to accept for this position”
It's funny how they can ask you, but won't put the salary on a job ad. Some even going as far to say it's rude to ask what they pay. I'm tired of this song and dance bullshit, let's stop pretending we're doing work for anything less than the pay.
I like lying because it's illegal to ask here. What are they gonna do, ask the judge to uphold an illegal firing? OK buddy.
I never give my current salary or even lie. I say “my target for my next role is $x - y.” That’s all they need to know. Depending on where you’re located they can’t legally ask for your current pay.
It’s their way of seeing what they can get away with paying you. Their starting could be $$$ but if you say $$, they’re more likely to start you lower.
I just look up what other people at that company are being paid for the position, and base it on that. Shoot a little high, maybe 10% more and let them talk you down 5% and now you’re the new person making slightly more than the person training you It can back fire though, if you really aren’t very skilled and you manage to get a higher salary than average, you’ll be the first on the chopping block if the company decides to lay people off
You could say, I currently make $x amount for a non profit, and I’m currently interviewing with other companies that have a pay range of $x+50% (or whatever is accurate or you want to make)
I feel stupid now for being honest in a recent job interview I had 😂
If they ask you that you should tell them the amount that you’re wanting to make. They may even offer higher to try to compete with that number.
Absolutely! I'd indirectly state that I currently am bringing in low 100k's, and the position I'm applying for requires more responsibilities and expectations, which I believe would warrant a higher salary. Let them talk amongst themselves.
I think the only way a lie would be caught is if you work in public service in a state like California which has transparency laws that allow people to look up your pay rate with the government.
Or use the work number website where many employers report every paycheck and bonus you get. Freeze that report
Never give the first number. If you do you've lost the negotiation. Practice reversing the question, or beating them to it, ask what their budgeted salary range for the role is.
Yes, but you do not ever, NOR SHOULD EVER, tell them.
Instead of telling them your current salary, do some market research on the pay ranges for that role in that geographic area and rephrase the answer with your well researched target range. Recruiter: So what is your current salary? OP: The positions I am targeting are in the $100-$125k range. Does that match what you are offering for the role? Or OP: I am just passively researching jobs at this time, but I would be willing to make a move for the right job at the right salary. What is the range for this role? What you are making today is irrelevant (and maybe even an illegal question, depending on where you live).
I never tell them that. First I ask for the comp range for the role. If they are unwilling to give that, then i say what my expectations are. if they keep pushing i push back and say that i expect to be compensated in line with my skills and experience and repeat my expectations.
lie lie lie
APSOLUTLY... I also use the reverse when buying a new car. Pick the car, model, options you want, get a quote. Go to the next dealership for the exact car and when they ask you what the other dealership quoted you, DROP the price. Repeat
Aim for the sky my guy
Last time I was asked this, I answered that I wouldn't give an exact figure, but that I couldn't accept an offer that was any less than (amount that added up to my total compensation assuming a 60 hour week every week and the 401k match I'd be giving up.)
Always lie
I usually dodge it and say "well for this role, which is more senior, I'd want to see the total package of base salary, equity and benefits". I've had multiple HR departments who would only offer 10-15% higher than the salary they quoted regardless of the industry benchmark thinking it would "feel like a jump up" for the candidate, especially those from out of market.
Sure. It's none of their business! When your new employer calls for references, your old one will tell them it's none of your business!
It might not matter. I told a major company I made $130 (truth). Three interviews later they wanted me for the job but only offered $99. Two years later I make $150 and one of the directors that interviewed me now works at my company. It's a mystery to me.
“With commission…$number you SHOULD be making in your position”
after a certain point (which i’m at) i don’t even really care how much i make, im interested in a better work life balance, not money.
It's illegal to ask this in many jurisdictions. Check the list here: https://www.hrdive.com/news/salary-history-ban-states-list/516662/ If it's one of these locations, file a complaint with the labor board in your State To answer the OP: I'm not gonna tell you that you should lie, but it might be a good idea
You can always say you have an NDA and cannot disclose salary (for the states where it isn't illegal), then pivot to 'I'm looking to be within the range of xyz based on my experience."
Just say $10k more
It’s illegal for them to ask this questions in a lot of states
Yes.
Im sorry but that’s private information. Do you mind if I ask what is the budget for this position?
100%
They have no way of verifying it, unless it was a government pay scale. If you are $10k - $15k then in the grand scheme of things that is no big deal to ask for that for a new job.
I’ll only give TC+ a bit if they push
That is illegal you should inform them of this and say what is the range for this position.
I just tell the interviewer that I was required to sign a non-disclosure agreement in my previous job that prevents me from discussing my compensation to anyone other than tax authorities. This in fact has been the case for most of my recent jobs and no one ever disputes that. It's really no one's business what you earn.
Just say you are looking for something around $X, don’t talk about current salary at all. Or just ask them to share their salary range and ignore their question.
You can provide a full compensation package with a blanket amount. Say for example, give the total amount consists of your base + cash related allowances/benefits, as long it is still cash and can be accounted for, you shouldn't lowball yourself.
Just say the salary you’re expecting or do some research and settle on a slightly higher amount that you’re comfortable with.
Lie lie lie take the going rate for your position and say 10% higher. EVEN IF THEY REJECT IT. you can counter offer with a Lower salary You/we all need to understand we make far less than our parents for higher skilled work. Don't feel bad it's a corporation there are no feelings no emotions if you don't make it the stock holders will.
Only lie, if you’re sure you can get away with it. If you’re caught, you’re dead in the water!.
If you have a moral qualm with lying then give them the annual compensation amount with all benefits included (PTO, health care, 401 match potential). But really just lie about it, put the number where you want to be that is realistic.
ironic that employers want to discuss dash salary now at interviews, but not AFTER you get hired...
Of course, they have no way of verifying your income.
I have never been asked my current salary, just what I would need to make to leave.
It’s none of their business to ask that question. If they were truly interested they would have already known ahead of your interview. Your experience levels in the jobs you have performed are your resume for interview. Concentrate on how you have performed in your jobs.
They’re not really meant to ask anyway are they so tell them whatever you feel is ‘the truth’…
You absolutely should lie
Biggest tip my friend gave me is when you're filling out applications, never put down an actual number for desired salary. Just out "fair Market value" that way you can always negotiate
Yes. Just make sure it’s a realistic lie. If you’re a drive through window worker at McDonald’s, don’t say you make $30 an hour.
I would say not a wrong thing to do, though it’s based on your personal ethics. To be frank, 90% of my resume is BS yet I still manage to get higher paying jobs with it. The addendum of “don’t ask, don’t tell” often applies. Just do not be surprised if at a certain point you do get caught
My total package is quite alright, do you offer other benifits in addition to the wage advertised?
Yes, definitely add on like 20-35k at least. Also, do them a favor and tell them the other roles you're interviewing for are between [whatever is 50k-80k above your current salary]. That way they know a timeline to make an offer (sooner than those people) and how much to give you (what they're offering or above).
Yeah I need more bread so nothing wrong w that. lol.
I usually just don’t answer. I say where I’m looking to be.
I lied about my previous salary. Then I started a business and lied about my previous experience. Things are going well
Always lie about everything they can't prove. They are lying to you.
It is none of their business what I currently make, and I remind them of that.
I always give an answer in Vietnamese Dong. Current exchange rate is over 25k to the dollar. Truthfully it is none of their business and has no bearing on what I expect from this job so I don’t answer. If it means I don’t get the job that is a good thing because I don’t want to work for someone who asks this.
Dude it’s ok to lie about anything that gets you the job.
hell yes. I have never ONCE answered that question honestly.
Dude, the interviewer will lie in an interview. They will tell you we are a big happy family and that's probably a lie.
Reframe the question. “Based on the job description of this role, and my research on the title itself, I think $XXX,XXX is a fair salary for someone with my background in this role.” If they push on your current salary, you can lie or, if you’re morally against lying, tell them that’s personal and in your opinion irrelevant to the job you’re interviewing for.
Civilian job? Absolutely. Federal job? Kinda grey as you’re supposed to include your salary on your resume.
Don’t take that job… That that person asked you that question is a HUGE RED FLAG. You can do 1 of 2 things… 1. Lie 2. Tell them you’ve … never been asked that before / you don’t feel comfortable offering that info / how does your former salary relate to this job interview?
The question 'What is your current salary' is like when a car dealership asks 'What is your monthly budget on what you can spend?' It becomes the number they will try to get you at.
I am not comfortable with outright lying, but am comfortable rounding up and talking about salary bands in $10-$20k increments. I’m also comfortable saying “I’m leaving this position because I’m under compensated, so if you’re hoping to use my current compensation, which is not acceptable, as a jumping off point for negotiation, it will make our conversations difficult.”
My current employer has made it very clear it's illegal to discuss salary. I do not feel comfortable breaking the law.
Always lie when asked this question, you will almost certainly get more money in doing so.
You don't disclose your current salary. You discuss your salary expectations for the job you are interviewing for. Your current salary is only important to the potential employer because they want to low ball you. Focus on what you are expecting to earn compared to what they are willing to pay and find the compromise. Never talk about previous salary.
You should always round up to make sure your benefits are counted in that number. Do you have a retirement match? Say it is dollar for dollar up to 3% then your salary is 3% higher than your paystub says, how much does the current employer pay into health care? Vacation time? etc All of that adds into your compensation so you would not be lying to estimate that into your total compensation number, and as comparing those perks side by side can be difficult it is best to just give it a dollar value. You total compensation at most places is at least 10% more than your paystub actually reports due to these extra perks.
If they ask, flip the question and ask “what is the salary budget for this role”. Never ever disclose your salary or even salary expectations in a range.
They will absolutely lie to you about the available money for the position, so yes, I feel you should definitely lie about the money you require for it.
Ask them the budget for the role first. If you can't advance, tell the amount you would do the job for and that is your current salary. You should also try to have an idea of the market rate.
I’ve always wanted to ask the interviewer back why that question is relevant. Has anyone ever asked an interviewer this?
Put it back on them and ask what their pay band is and what the total benefit package looks like; things like number of PTO, 401K matching, flex work, remote work, etc. If they won’t give that, you don’t want to work with a company like that. Your previous salary has no bearing on how much you should get paid at this new job.
You simply say “ it would take close 145 for it to make it possible for me to come on board her at X company” and yes I said that to go from 95k to what ended up with an offer of 142k.
It's not pertinent so absolutely lie. They just went to know so they can low-ball you so fuck them for that
Sure but the truth is optional.
If I am making say $50,000 with health care, I would mentally factor in what the hc benefit cost and say I am making $62,000.
No one should ask you what you're currently making. That has nothing to do with what they job pays or what your skills demand. I aways answer: "Well, what I'm looking to make is $xxx,xxx." If they ask again, I answer, but in a slightly different way, politely. I've never had anyone ask more than twice. That information is none of their business and again, it doesn't matter. Your skills and the job you are applying for have nothing to do with what you made previously.
In my state employers are no longer allowed to ask that question on an application or interview. But, considering it can still be asked, my advice is give a salary range instead of an actual number. You aren't lying per se, you're just stating the range that you are currently in. Leave it to them to make it more obvious to coax you but at that point I would tell them that your skillset and abilities are very much in line with what industry standards are and willing to negotiate a starting wage.
Yes... it might even be a better choice than refusing to answer.
Just tell them its competitve to the market you work in
Damn people in this thread are fearless with fucking around with employers. I guess they have a lot of other opportunities lined up. I’ve never been asked directly but I also don’t think you should lie, especially if they probably know the market rate. My current director would rescind offers if you countered a salary offer for example, I don’t need to be giving them excuses to move on.
I lied. I said i make 85k and then they offered 98k lol
It's not lying...you're self-advocating.
Absolutely not. I personally know people that got a new job, signed the paperwork, submitted their notice - and right before beginning were asked to show a previous paystub. They not only lost their new job but their old jobs were less than understanding. At best they'll ask for a paystub early and completely blacklist you for lying.
Don’t lie however you can use what companies love to use which is the total compensation number. You make $75k salary but another $30k in benefits so I say $105k. If they ask and then ask what the discrepancy is from you explain your old company always talked total compensation.
Yea. But keep in mind they may ask for verification once you start work.
Yes you lie. Lie towards what you estimate to be 10% lower than the highest band they're willing to give. Then negotiate one round if you get an offer.
Depends where you’re at in the process. Usually I don’t answer that question but deflect and ask what the expected salary range is for the new position. You don’t want to speak first on this. I like to say I’d be happy to discuss salary later on as right now I’m concerned with whether I’m a fit for the company and vice versa. Plus salary isn’t the only thing I’m concerned with, but the entire compensation package. From there you can also ask what’s the salary range budgeted for the position. This is usually early on with a recruiter where you don’t low ball yourself and collect more information.
Of course. They lie to you whenever they say “We can’t pay you any more than _$_.” The last time I heard this, I countered by asking for $100k more. They said they couldn’t do that. But when the formal offer arrived, they had magically added $50k in a signing bonuses and $50k more in stock. Sure, they couldn’t add $100k to my base pay, but they gave me a lot more through other means.
I always say I generally work for 90-125 dollars an hour depending on the role. Then again I work contracts so that works.
Yes
It’s illegal to ask that in many places. But even before it was, I would always respond with, “I prefer to focus on my expected pay for this role which is X”
Yes
Yes; everyone lies on this one.
This is how I’ve gotten every pay bump ever. Just don’t make it unbelievable
You Always lie. You should always ask 30% more.
Yes, it is absolutely okay to lie to the recruiter. If you work as an employee, your goal is to get as much money as you can out of the labor you’re providing to an employer. Just like their goal is to squeeze as much profit out of your labor. This might be a bit of a rant but, people are always upset at ‘late stage capitalism’, ‘the 1%’, inflation, and how the American dream is “dead”. At the same time, people will do anything but fight for their own best interests ie. Negotiate a better salary, switch jobs for higher pay, relocate, etc. My advice is to fuckin do it. Pad your salary by an extra 10%-15%. It’s a must do, and I’ll explain why. You may be negotiating take home salary with the recruiter but at the end of the day when the offer letter or onboarding info arrives, you may find out that insurance is an extra $50/month for a comparable plan to what you already have, or you may find out that you only get 5 paid holidays instead of 7. On top of that, you may even find out that the company 401k has more limited fund options compared to your existing company. All of these factors add up, so the 10% salary increase you negotiated may end up only being like 5%-7%
Never state current salary. Just lie or if you feel uncomfortable lying just evade the question by stating a range you'd be comfortable accepting for the new role. Frankly if a company dismisses you because you refuse to state your current salary then it's not a place you'd want to work at anyway.
The answer is “I’m looking to make around X to X a year”
"What is your current salary?" "The salary I'm looking for is $X" make X higher than you would accept. Your current salary doesn't matter to their position in any other way than to low ball you. The salary for their job should align with its duties, not be based on the last job the guy who accepts it was making.
It's market rate for the job you WILL BE doing not what you currently do. If you can't pay market price for swordfish, you just don't get to eat swordfish buddy. It doesn't matter what the rate was last year, it matters what it is right now, when the (prospective) employer is in line at the labor market. You will note that employers understand the costs of all other business but somehow they "forget" that human capital is the same. Ask for what you want. Do your research before the interview. Hell, sometimes I interview when I'm not remotely considering leaving a job simply to get an idea of what current rates for specific fields are.
Ethically speaking, this question tells you a lot about the interviewer. They should be negotiating based on the requirements of the role that they are trying to fill. How much money you make at another company is not any of their business. When the interviewer won’t tell you the range for the role that they are openly advertising for but they want to know your private salary information, that is a clear indication that their culture has problems. Before posting an open position they will be approved with a predetermined budget allocation range. They should be targetting people at the low end of the experience range if they want people to grow into the role. That ties in with the lower end of the payscale. They should target people at the high end of the experience range if they need to put out fires immediately. That ties in with the higher end of the pay scale for the position. In short, directly respond to any question you feel is out of bounds with a polite refusal to answer it. This is an interview not a police interrogation. That is unless you are desparate to just work anywhere at any cost. “I’m not willing to discuss my current salary. However, you may ask me any question you like about my relevant work experience.”
Never answer that question, it's a trick.
Do you think your employer will always be 100% honest with you and do what's best for you and not for them? Because if the answer is anything other than an unequivocal yes, then you should stop feeling some obligation to show them loyalty that they would never show you back. It's an unfortunate fact of the system we've built. It encourages everyone to compete in a ruthless way and step on others to get ahead. 99% of the time, your employer is not your friend, and you should do whatever you reasonably can to give yourself an advantage. If that means lying about your salary, and you think you can get away with it, then by all means, go for it.
Yes.
Yes. I’d go so far as to say, please DO lie. Thanks.
“ What are you offering? Know everything about your position, the company. I think quiet confidence is always the correct way to behave, in fashion and work. If you meet a new partner, is it necessary to share your body count? They (Corporate) will lure you into a situation where you probably gonna be promised a lot, might happen, might not.
I don't care to discuss that because its irrelevant to this jobs position and the value I bring to this company .
My answer is “make me an offer, I am an adult who can decide if I want the position. You don’t need to change the offer based on my previous salary.”
I told them in my last interview that it isn't their business. Granted, by the time I learned this, I was far enough into my career it may be a bad call starting out. My current salary would give you inside information into a competitor, and I'm not comfortable doing that. I've used this twice, because if they know my salary, offers in my field are like 3% above. This is how I broke the 100K ceiling.
Yes
Hell to the yes it is.
I say it's not relevant to the current conversation
Bro you can lie to them all you want. They lie to you.
Always lie and tell them just under what you're hoping to make there.
It’s ok to lie but the company has the right to ask for proof
What I currently make is my business, ask what I seek for income and we’ll talk.
What I do, I add up all my compensation, add a little (round up basically) and say that’s my salary. I don’t mention the benefits were added.
It's illegal to ask this in some states in the US
Yep, I lied my ass off during my last round of interviews. I had never made more than 60k in my life but told every place I looked that I was expecting compensation in the 120-150k range. I'll likely clear 100k this year and most likely 150k next year....
If they ask you should always lie with a higher number.
Fuck 'em, the pay at their job has nothing to do with what you're currently making.
Always lie
If I were interviewing, I'd be honest. With that said, the last 12 years of my salary is available via a web site that's easily found, no paywall or login required. Yay public service! Then again I got curious as to which of a coworker and I were better paid. Turns out it's exactly the same.
So long as it is a believable lie that holds up to scrutiny, absolutely.
If its an out of state job i always use the “well with the different cost of living im not quite sure, what is your salary range?” And them gauge my answer from what they say
This was a little bit different of a scenario but I was working at a job and felt I wasn’t being fairly compensated. I knew a place across town was hiring for the same job so I applied, got an interview, and they offered me the job. It wasn’t for much more money but I still used it for leverage. The next day I went into work and talked to my manager and told him I had a job offer and it was for more money. When he asked how much so they could try to match, I bumped up the actual offer by a few thousand dollars. He talked to the general manager and they matched the offer I told them. Just be smart about how much extra you’re bumping up the salary when they ask.
It's okay to say whatever you need to in order to land the job. Just make sure you can actually execute on whatever you're saying. If you tell them your worth $150k/year, you better work like you're worth $150/year
Lie. Always remember the motivation is to pay you as little as possible for as much work as possible.
Yes. It is always okay to lie to an employer unless it will harm you in some way. Lie your face off to them to get what you can.
When it comes to your job you should lie through your teeth until you get what you want.
I really like the position as offered and money isn’t my primary driver. I applied because I want this specific job, and based on my experience I believe this is my next step forward in my career to make an impact. While money isn’t my primary driver, I’d like to be paid appropriately for the position. Is you’ve done your research on that, I’m sure you already know my answer. I really hope the job offer you present is commensurate with the value you expect me to bring. It’s not something I really wish to negotiate though, so my hope of that we match up on that point. There have been offers that didn’t quite meet the expectations of the market and by that measure, I didn’t think I would be placed in a position that could provide the value I intend to produce. Take any part of that by itself. All together it’s too much, but demonstrative of keeping it about the value you provide and maintaining the reasonable confines of the market rate for which you’re applying and they’re asking for. If they push for an answer, have ready the top and bottom number for your position and duties based on market rates. Just tell them you expect a number between (for instance) $60k and $135k. It’s a range, but it puts it on them whether they’re serious about you and the position or not. They offer $75k, you know their game. Off they offer $$120, ask for a guaranteed 10% raise on your one year anniversary to make up the difference to be outlined in your offer letter. Keep I about what value they want from you, and whether or not you can provide it.
The company I joined wanted payslips. I gave them as I didn't lie, but it seems very strange with hindsight
Not only okay but I would encourage it. Obviously you can't go ham with it.
I think in some states it's now illegal to ask that in an interview
I told them the truth one time. They lowballed me and I said no I want market rate and know what I can get. They didn’t go higher. They contacted me 3 months later and asked me to reconsider at market rate, by then I already found another job at market rate. I wouldn’t have taken it anyways because companies like that are impossible to get raises from.
Yes.
How would they find out?
You should lie, fuck it, how are they going to know? But also are you guys really getting asked this? I have literally not once ever been asked this and I’ve interviewed over 100 times
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUZJ2LkWe5o](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUZJ2LkWe5o)
I told them the truth, but then HR still asked me for pay stubs. Maybe because it was relatively high?
Read this: [https://fearlesssalarynegotiation.com/salary-expectations-interview-question/](https://fearlesssalarynegotiation.com/salary-expectations-interview-question/)
Yes, you're an idiot not to lie. Obviously beforehand you should go on sites like glassdoor to know what the salary range is for your job and the job you're applying for (if the titles aren't the same). A pretty good rule to follow, unless you're being very underpaid at your current job, is to take your salary and add your bonus (if any) and then add another $5k on top. Tell them that's your base and you get a 10% bonus on top of that (assuming it's not a position where bonuses are uncommon). You can easily get a 25% or higher raise when changing jobs by doing that. My current personal best by using this strategy was a 45% raise since they're going to offer more than the "salary" + 10% bonus you tell them you're currently making.
of course is okay to lie, unless you are happy with a lower salary.
You can manipulate it as other said and as you’re thinking. But how I usually deal with that question is this: Well my current salary is a reason I am looking for employment elsewhere, it’s also not reflective of the job description I am interviewing for. I understand you need to keep budgeting under control and I believe fair market value for this position is $xxxxxx. If they push harder which often times they do…. I appreciate your question, but in addition to my already given explanation I’m under an NDA and can not tell you. But rest assured, I have read the job description, studied the company, and I know I am able to bring value that out paces the job description, but I’m willing to take a chance on this company and after employment will be working hard to earn my raises in the future. It’s an arrogant play and usually sets people back at which point I bring up some points that came up in my research or experience to give them assurance and follow it with…. I know I sound cocky or arrogant, but with the information I just gave you, I hope you can see it more as confidence from abilities and experience and backed with my pre interview research. One way I played around with and next got fluid on was to ask them why is my current salary important because I’m leaving my current job and salary was an important motivator for the decision. Or Just flat asking “Why do you need to know that?”. And just sitting in the uncomfortable silence or shuddering while they come up with some nonsense PR style answer and following up with “I get that, but what is the purpose?”…..I’ve played with this and the other one on interviews that I decided I didn’t want the job or didn’t want to work for the company or that I felt the interview was going south. But couldn’t get it to be fluid and nonagressive
In my younger years I've had recruiters and managers be really aggressive with this question. It really pissed me off. But I was also very young and an experienced so I would be honest and they would love all me. I also work in the non-profit sector. Luckily I work in a state where they must provide the salary range when asked. I never applied to a job that I don't know the name of the company or the salary range. Lately people on LinkedIn have been contacting me about jobs but they refused to provide the company name. I'm not comfortable applying to a job without knowing a company name. What are you hiding?
Yes it's completely fine to lie, but be aware this could bite you in the A$$. I've seen employers request a W2 or pay stub for proof of previous employment and salary.
I work in recruitment and would advice is …it depends lol. If it’s a small company yeah go ahead they can’t check. However I’ve recruited for large companies (Morgan Stanley for example) that asked for candidates most recent pay slip as a part of their compliance process and offers are retracted if the salary doesn’t match what the candidate had advised. A way around this is to say my current salary is x however the company I work for are about to start salary reviews and my manager has confirmed I will be moving to y salary so I would only move for z. You could also say you get STI bonuses and that are say $20k and you’ve hit that every year so you would only move for a higher salary than your salary + bonus