It is not a good idea to discuss salary early in an interview. It can be too much information when trying to negotiate a new salary, but how can you dodge the question?
It is a bad idea to discuss salary early in the hiring process. However if it comes up, do not get yourself caught in a lie.
My preference when pressed for an answer is as follows:
1) Just let them know that your past salary is not all that related to the work you're going to do in the new job. The terms and work conditions and responsibilities are different, and therefore your past salary should not factor into your new job compensation.
2) If the employer insists you mention your previous salary, mention with the total value of your salary package. Also, restate that it is not the same company you will be working for, and so your past salary is not related. There are so many factors including lifestyle, vacation, time in lieu of pay and other things that also factor in.
3) Be aware before going into the interview what the standard range is for that job, and know where your performance level would be within that range. Most people are not at the top end of the salary range, so unless you are a total star, don't expect the absolute max unless you can justify it. Your clout will be confirmed by your reference checks it will be obvious if you are not in the highest percentiles.
4) Even if you were earning a low salary before, possibly even below the industry standards for that job, you should expect to be paid within that range when you go to your next job. You may have one of many reasons for taking an lower salary at your previous job. It does NOT explain your worth to the new employer, bottom line!
5) If you divulge your salary, restate that you expect to be paid the standard industry rate for the posting, and explain what you do understand about the industry at that time. Most employers will respect you for standing your ground on the matter. Just remember that in negotiating you should be firm in your stance but respectful in your demeanor.
Never tell a lie to your prospective employer. Just be aware that they have ways of knowing or discovering the truth that you don't have control over. The most important thing is to communicate honestly the value you can bring to the employer and impress them with that.
It is a bad idea to discuss salary early in the hiring process. However if it comes up, do not get yourself caught in a lie.
My preference when pressed for an answer is as follows:
1) Just let them know that your past salary is not all that related to the work you're going to do in the new job. The terms and work conditions and responsibilities are different, and therefore your past salary should not factor into your new job compensation.
2) If the employer insists you mention your previous salary, mention with the total value of your salary package. Also, restate that it is not the same company you will be working for, and so your past salary is not related. There are so many factors including lifestyle, vacation, time in lieu of pay and other things that also factor in.
3) Be aware before going into the interview what the standard range is for that job, and know where your performance level would be within that range. Most people are not at the top end of the salary range, so unless you are a total star, don't expect the absolute max unless you can justify it. Your clout will be confirmed by your reference checks it will be obvious if you are not in the highest percentiles.
4) Even if you were earning a low salary before, possibly even below the industry standards for that job, you should expect to be paid within that range when you go to your next job. You may have one of many reasons for taking an lower salary at your previous job. It does NOT explain your worth to the new employer, bottom line!
5) If you divulge your salary, restate that you expect to be paid the standard industry rate for the posting, and explain what you do understand about the industry at that time. Most employers will respect you for standing your ground on the matter. Just remember that in negotiating you should be firm in your stance but respectful in your demeanor.
Never tell a lie to your prospective employer. Just be aware that they have ways of knowing or discovering the truth that you don't have control over. The most important thing is to communicate honestly the value you can bring to the employer and impress them with that.
About the Author:
Trevor Davide Grant is a project manager in the IT field and has extensive experience in salary negotiation. Trevor has worked for large telecom, electric utilities, software consulting, and a prevalent social network. He has learned how to negotiate a salary in the most powerfulway. Learn great tips on the topic of negotiating salary at www.HowToNegotiateASalary.com.
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