What to Say to the Dreaded Previous Salary Question?

John Krautzel
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There is one question that trips up many job seekers in interviews: "What was your previous salary?" Knowing how to respond to this question can put you in a very strong position in your job hunt.

The most important thing to remember is that you should never lie in a job interview. Lying about your previous salary can lead to problems if you are found out. On the other hand, many job seekers are reluctant to give their actual salary in an interview, as it can lead the potential employer to assume the applicant will accept a salary in that range. The result can be a job offer at a salary lower than you are looking for, or no job offer at all if your previous salary is higher than the new employer can afford to pay.

So, what should you say when the interviewer pops the dreaded previous salary question? One way to deal with this situation is to say, "I'm looking for a salary in the range of $75K." If you deliver this reply with confidence, the interviewer may accept your answer. However, other interviewers will keep asking. If this is the case, then you have a few options.

One option is to give in and tell the employer your previous salary so that the interview can move on. If you choose to go down this road, then make sure you emphasize the salary that you are looking for in your new role. If your expected salary is higher than your previous salary, then you will need to explain why you are worth more to your new employer than your previous employer was prepared to pay. For example, you could explain that you have gained new skills, important experience or a qualification since you started in your previous role.

Your other option is to keep repeating the salary that you expect to earn in your new role rather than giving your previous salary. If the interviewer refuses to drop the issue, you can say that you respect your previous employer's confidentiality, and that you wouldn't want to give away sensitive salary information. This can gain you respect in the eyes of some employers as it implies that you respect confidential information about the organization in which you are employed.

Dealing with the dreaded previous salary question is tricky, but firmly stating the salary range that you are looking for is a good way to handle the situation. The salary range that you are prepared to accept is the information that a potential employer really needs, so giving the interviewer this information can, in many cases, effectively deflect the conversation away from the awkward subject of your previous salary.

 

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  • Marilyn B.
    Marilyn B. •

    great comments mgb

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @Mark - thanks for your comments. It is best to go into a salary negotiation fully armed. I do the same thing - research prior to the interview. This way I don't have to sit there looking dumb while the hiring manager takes over the meeting! You should always do your due diligence prior to this so that you know if the employer is telling you stories or not. Every employer tries to get the best possible candidate for the least amount of money. They certainly can smell desperation! One other thing that I have found is that it's best to keep the "range" small. If you say that your requested salary range is between $40000 and $50000 - well that's a pretty big range and you will probably end up on the lower end. But if you say that your range is between $47000 and $50000, then you might get closer to your asking salary. Best of luck all.

  • Mark C.
    Mark C. •

    One more thing. Employers have the money to pay you. They have already tested the market to see what others pay. If you think you are the best. Then be the best and expect the best. Employers that operate by $$ usually have an inferior product/service and tend to employ mediocre at best. Also, remember that not every employer can afford what "Google" can afford. Then again, it costs absolutely nothing to be a great employer.

  • Mark C.
    Mark C. •

    My response is to inform the potential employer that this position normally pays in the range of X and X as per indeed and other sources. My expectation is X to X and I am willing to negociate for additional PTO.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @Bryan, salary is such a sensitive issue. I am sure that there are many ways to handle this. From my perspective, I just tell them like it is. I would say "well, I was receiving X amount previously but, for this position, I would expect a range between X and X." The truth is that the interviewer should not bring it up - especially on a first interview - unless they are seriously considering me. We are all taught that a discussion about salary is a no-no on a first interview! But, if pressured, I would answer truthfully. Lies always have a way of coming out.

  • BRYAN L.
    BRYAN L. •

    "If the interviewer refuses to drop the issue, you can say that you respect your previous employer's confidentiality, and that you wouldn't want to give away sensitive salary information." Ummm. . . as a potential employer, I would scream "bolderdash" at an answer like that. It is obvious that you are covering something up -- and all I would remember from the interview would be my wondering about what exactly you were covering up.

  • Nancy Anderson
    Nancy Anderson •

    @Sandra - I agree with William. Just be straightforward and honest. That's what companies want. You can just imagine some of the lies that they get on resumes and cover letters. Just be you and be truthful - they will appreciate it.

  • NURUL A.
    NURUL A. •

    As per company rules

  • William M.
    William M. •

    Hi Sandra, Here is what I would say: Tell them that four years ago both of my parents were in failing health and needed constant care. I made the decision to leave a rewarding career and become their caretaker. It was not an easy decision to make but I do not regret it. My parents needed me and I wanted to do it. I have no regrets.

  • Sandra S.
    Sandra S. •

    What should I say in my cover letter regarding choosing to Care Take for my elderly parents which kept me away from my career for 4 years.
    . My dad passed last year and now my sibling is caring for my mother (they were married 56 years) im anxious to get back into the work force. Thank you, Sandra
    passed last year, now a sibling is caring for my mother. Thank you Sandra

  • lisa aldridge
    lisa aldridge •

    Thank you for your input

  • William M.
    William M. •

    Above all answer truthfully and honestly. State your last/current salary confidently. If the potential employer asks you regarding a salary figure for the job give them a range. Make the low end a number that you can be comfortable with and the high end an ideal salary. Keep in mind that you need to be reasonable and have done your homework. State the range confidently and be prepared to negotiate if necessary.

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