We know we should never reveal what what our old salary was – it can be negotiation suicide if you do – but how can we avoid giving it away if asked?
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.
The best way to deal when pressed for your salary information is as follows:
1) The compensation you earned in the past is for similar work but the total compensation package is not related to the work and company your going to. Your past salary should not factor into your new job.
2) If pressed to disclose the previous salary, as is mentioned by other respondents, mention with the total value of your compensation package. Also, re-iterate that it is not the same company, and so your previous salary is not terribly pertinent. There are so many factors including work life balance, benefits, holidays, paid overtime, etc,etc, that 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) Regardless of whether or not you were earning at or below or even above the market average for your career, your past salary is not relevant. You may have had any number of reasons for working below market in the past, but what is important now is that you earn current market rates for the work you do. Your past doesn’t explain your worth as a resource to the new employer.
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.
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