Is it Appropriate to Discuss Salary at a Job Interview?

Posted on October 20, 2017 by Louise Savoie

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This is a very common question among job-seekers and even employers. When in the prospect of looking for a work, compensation is, of course, an important factor. However, it sometimes seems inappropriate and even awkward to discuss salary and compensation when you have yet to be accepted to the position that you are applying for. You don’t want to give a negative first impression by being too eager about your compensation.

The thing is, it’s fine to discuss salary or compensation from the beginning even before you get hired. Nowadays, even employers would want to know how much you expect to be compensated. At least you will have an idea. The key is to know when and how to bring it up. Here are a few tips:

  • Keep a ballpark figure in mind. If ever the interviewer asks for your desired rate, have a figure ready. Make sure not to lowball yourself too much and don’t seem to over-value yourself either. Keep in mind the position that you are applying for and the responsibilities that might come with it.
  • Timing is everything. You don’t want to appear too eager so you have to ease the question throughout the interview process. Be sure to make a lasting good impression to the interviewer. Make them realize that you are the best candidate for the position and that hiring you is the best decision for their company. Once the interviewer winds down and shows positive signs of hiring you, you can politely ask about the benefits and compensation.
  • Let the interviewer bring it up. Most of the time, the initial interview phase will give a range on how benefits and compensation are. Do not bring it up during the first phase of the interview, and just follow the interviewers lead and just answer the questions briefly, accurately, and respectfully. Eventually, the topic of salary and monetization will come up and that’s when you can be upfront about it.
  • Be polite about it. Don’t risk sounding too demanding or eager about it. If the interviewer does not mention it, politely bring it up. You can say something like “I am very interested in this position and I am hoping to know how I will be compensated if given the great opportunity to work with your company.”

Asking about salary upfront can actually be a positive trait since it shows that you know your worth and that you are confident that you can contribute positively as an employee. A Staffing Service Firm such as HRT Staffing Services, is invaluable when it comes to job-hunting as they can provide you with all the information that you need, even salary and the benefits information. At HRT Staffing Services, we help you find a suitable job befitting your experience, expertise, and knowledge while keeping your compensation concerns in mind. You can learn more about how our Staffing Services in Texas can serve your best interest by visiting our website at www.hrtechs.com, or by contacting us at 972-400-4400.

The important thing is to impress your interviewer to the extent of hiring you. By then, it won’t matter if you ask about how much they are willing to compensate you.

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