Should I disclose my desired salary when asked by a potential employer?

Yes.

Or you can state it immediately if you want to cut to the chase. But if this isn’t enough to convince you, which I hope it’s not, let’s go back and figure out how we arrived with this answer.

Some Background:

What are the consequences of not disclosing my salary?

Losing the offer to the person who was willing to tell the employer their desired salary. The hiring process is long and tedious for both parties (which I can explain why in another blog post if there’s interest). Just like candidates, the hiring manager wants to get the position filled sooner than later. This is what I remember explaining to a qualified candidate a few years ago. I assured her, “I know it might feel uncomfortable, but I assure you my only goal is to get this position filled with a great fit. There are other applicants in this stage, and in order for you to have a better shot at the role, the hiring manager needs to know how much you want to make”. “I’ll consider a reasonable offer, I’m not ready to disclose that information”, she kindly persisted. It was between her and 3 candidates, and yes, the offer was given to the candidate who disclosed their desired salary. Not only that, but he was able to get $2/hr more than the max range, which I will show you how to do if you keep reading. This is probably a topic for another day, but I will mention that in my experience, women are much more likely to stay quiet about their desired salary, whereas men will often tell me before I get the chance to ask. This is why it’s important to know what you want and ask for it with confidence. More on that later. So at this point you are likely wondering…

Why can’t companies just disclose their salary range in the first place? 

Trust me when I say, I hear you! And many positions do disclose a salary range in the job description. But there are a number of reasons why this may not be listed.

1. They have not received approval. When a role needs to be filled, particularly when it’s a new position or only one person will hold this title, the hiring manager will put in a request. The chosen salary range will be based on federal and state laws, cost of living, and other relevant variables for legal reasons and the company budget.
2. It may truly depend on the candidate. If they have a salary range in mind, but would be willing to offer more to a stellar candidate, they may not want to list a range that would look distasteful to a seasoned professional.
3. The reason most people are thinking: is it so the company can get away with paying me less? Maybe. I can’t speak for everyone. But I can honestly tell you common practice at all the companies I’ve recruited for is to pay the minimum on the salary range, even if you ask for less! Still worried?

How do I stop myself from stressing out about salary?!

This is going to sounds ridiculously simple, but it’s true. You don’t have to accept any job that isn’t offering you the pay you want. And the great thing about being upfront about your desired salary is if it’s too low for your needs, you can move on to the next opening, or, you can explain why you’re worth what you’re seeking.

Now that we’re up to speed, all we need to do is figure out your desired salary, and then how to present it.

How do I determine my desired salary?

1. Research salary ranges by position and location with a salary calculator: Here is a link to one powered by Career Builder, but you can find others online.
2. Consider your experience and education: If you’re seeking an exceptional salary, you need an exceptional resume to match.
3. Cost of living: Are you relocating to LA where you’ll need $2000/mo to live in a smelly dog house? Consider the variables.

How to present your desired salary:

1. Support your answer with reasons why you deserve the pay you’re seeking. Speak to your experience, past initiatives, and relevant education/courses. It might get you a higher pay than you think.
2. Consider benefits besides salary. What are the medical benefits like? Are they amazing? Do you even need them, can you negotiate by waiving them? How is their PTO structured, could you bargain for more or less?
3.  Decline offers that don’t work for you. If you’re planning to take the job and continue interviews until you find something that pays more, or you’re going to be miserable with your pay, then perhaps you need to decline. Don’t worry, the company will appreciate your honesty. This also help you avoid burning bridges or looking like a job hopper on your resume. If you’re having trouble finding satisfactory pay, you should also consider if your background is up to par. If not, continue to earn your experience, and you’ll get there.

P.S. This article is not to be confused by current salary. You are not obligated to provide your current salary if you choose not to. This is a recent federal law, so if you are asked it could easily be an honest mistake.

Would personalized services make this process a whole lot easier? You can checkout all the available products under the “services” page here on this website. There, you can also instantly download my resume guide + bonus interview guide or find it in the top right corner of the webpage on desktop. If you still aren’t sure, you can email me your resume to hello@resumeresolved.com for a free consult.

All the best!

Kristina,

Resume Resolved