How to answer questions about salary history?

Handling questions about your salary history requires tact and preparation to ensure you navigate the conversation effectively while advocating for your worth. Here are several strategies and tips to help you respond confidently and professionally:

1. Understand the Legal Landscape

a. Know the Laws in Your Region

In many places, employers are restricted or prohibited from asking about your salary history. For example, several U.S. states and cities have enacted laws that make it illegal for employers to request this information. Familiarize yourself with the regulations in your area to understand your rights.

b. Leverage Legal Protections

If you are in a jurisdiction where such questions are illegal, you can politely decline to answer. Knowing your rights empowers you to handle these questions appropriately.

2. Prepare Your Response in Advance

a. Practice Deflecting the Question

Instead of providing a direct answer, steer the conversation toward your salary expectations and the value you bring to the role.

Example Response: "I’d prefer to focus on the value I can bring to your team and discuss a salary that reflects the responsibilities of the position and my experience."

b. Pivot to Your Desired Salary Range

Provide a salary range based on your research and the market rate for the position, rather than disclosing your past earnings.

Example Response: "Based on my research and the responsibilities of this role, I’m looking for a salary in the range of 70,000 to 80,000."

c. Emphasize Your Value and Skills

Highlight how your skills, experience, and accomplishments make you a strong candidate deserving of competitive compensation.

Example Response: "Given my experience in project management and my track record of increasing team efficiency by 20%, I believe a salary in the range of 75,000 to 85,000 would be appropriate."

3. Responding When Disclosure Is Required

If you are in a region where salary history questions are permitted or you choose to disclose your past salary, consider the following approaches:

a. Provide Context

Explain your previous salary in the context of your role, responsibilities, and the company's size or industry to give a clearer picture.

Example Response: "In my previous role as a senior developer at XYZ Corp, my salary was $65,000 annually, which was aligned with the industry standards for that position and the company's compensation structure."

b. Highlight Growth and Expectations

If your previous salary was lower than the market rate, use it as a stepping stone to discuss your growth and current expectations.

Example Response: "While my last salary was $60,000, I’ve since gained additional certifications and experience that have prepared me for this higher-level role, and I’m seeking a compensation package that reflects those advancements."

4. Turn the Question Around

Ask questions about the salary range for the position to gain insight and steer the conversation toward your expectations.

Example Response: "I’d like to understand the salary range you have in mind for this position to ensure we’re aligned."

5. Be Honest but Strategic

If you choose to share your salary history, ensure you present it in a way that supports your desired compensation.

Example Response: "My current salary is 70,000, but based on the increased responsibilities of this role and my expertise, I’m looking for a position that offers between 80,000 and $90,000."

6. Focus on Total Compensation

Shift the discussion from just salary to the overall compensation package, including benefits, bonuses, stock options, and other perks.

Example Response: "While salary is important, I’m also interested in discussing the overall compensation package, including benefits and opportunities for growth."

7. Maintain Professionalism and Positivity

Regardless of how you choose to respond, always remain polite and positive. Avoid showing frustration or reluctance, as it can leave a negative impression.

Example Response: "I appreciate you asking. I’m excited about the opportunity and believe we can find a compensation package that reflects my skills and the value I bring to the team."

8. Research and Know Your Worth

Before the interview, conduct thorough research to understand the market rate for the position you're applying for. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and LinkedIn Salary can provide valuable insights.

a. Determine Your Salary Range

Based on your research, establish a realistic salary range that aligns with your experience, skills, and the job’s requirements.

b. Prepare Justifications

Be ready to explain why you deserve the salary you’re requesting by highlighting your accomplishments, skills, and how you can add value to the company.

9. Practice Your Responses

Rehearse your responses to salary history questions to build confidence and ensure you deliver them smoothly during the interview.

a. Role-Playing

Engage in mock interviews with a friend or mentor to practice handling these questions in a realistic setting.

b. Record and Review

Record yourself answering salary questions to evaluate your tone, body language, and clarity, making adjustments as needed.

10. Know When to Delay the Discussion

If the salary question arises early in the interview process, it might be beneficial to postpone the discussion until you have a better understanding of the role and can demonstrate your value.

Example Response: "I’d like to learn more about the role and the team to provide a more informed response about my salary expectations."

Sample Responses to Salary History Questions

1. Deflect and Redirect:

   • Interviewer: "Can you tell me about your salary history?"
   • You: "I’d prefer to focus on the value I can bring to this position and discuss a salary that aligns with the responsibilities and my experience."

2. Provide a Range:

   • Interviewer: "What was your last salary?"
   • You: "In my previous role, my salary was 65,000. However, based on the market rate and the responsibilities of this position, I’m seeking something in the range of 75,000 to $85,000."

3. Emphasize Growth:

   • Interviewer: "What is your current salary?"
   • You: "My current salary is 60,000, and since then, I’ve acquired new skills and certifications that prepare me for this role, so I’m looking for a compensation package around 80,000."

4. Turn the Question Around:

   • Interviewer: "Can you share your salary history?"
   • You: "I’d like to understand the salary range you have in mind for this position to ensure we’re on the same page."

Final Tips

• Stay Calm and Composed: Maintain your composure and respond confidently without showing discomfort.
• Be Honest: While it’s important to advocate for yourself, ensure that any information you provide is truthful.
• Know Your Bottom Line: Decide in advance the minimum salary you’re willing to accept and be prepared to negotiate if necessary.
• Consider the Entire Package: Sometimes benefits, work-life balance, and growth opportunities can compensate for a lower salary.

By preparing thoughtful and strategic responses, understanding your rights, and confidently communicating your value, you can effectively handle salary history questions and steer the conversation toward a compensation package that reflects your worth.