So man, we keep getting questions – I’d call this idea a success. So what’s next?
“A lot of these application forms insist you give them a salary expectation. I was always told not to get into specifics about money until the end of the interview. I was also always told never to leave anything blank in the application (also, the computerized ones count it as a required field). So, should I talk about salary during the application or not? And if not, how do I get around it until it’s time?”
Frankly, unless it’s a low-level job that’s going to pay low/minimum, everyone talks salary. The key is to know HOW.
The question is really “how do you get paid what you’re worth/want”). To do that you have to know the right things and know how to ask.
#1 Research
Never apply for job or position without knowing the likely salary, and my hidden secret here is the fantastic http://www.salary.com/. Ignore the ads and other stuff, this site is pure gold and is pretty accurate based on my investigations. This will give you a salary range to use in bargaining and evaluating.
You can also check industry specific reports – they’re all over the next. Find one for your specific industry/career if it’s specialized or salary.com doesn’t have it. Keep track of it.
#2 What Do They Say?
Look at the job description. Does it give a pay rate? If it’s below what your research says, or unusually high, be cautious and investigate.
Many job postings list salary, but it’s often missed, poorly written, or confusing.
#3 Evaluate The Situation
So knowing this information, what do you do?
- If you don’t feel you can ask for a specific, try entering “market average” or “as appropriate.” This is great as it suggests you may have done research or know what this average is – but isn’t overcommitted.
- If the amount they offer is low, highball it to their highest level, or use the above ideas. This depends on if you’ll accept that level of pay.
- If you can, give a range based on your research. This gives room for negotiation and also shows you did research.
- If you must go specific, I usually list slightly below-average with a “+” at the end or the word “around” or something. Gives it some wiggle room.
- If you HAVE to be specific, go average.
The overall goal is to get what you what, what’s reasonable, but leave enough room for negotiation.
A few other tips:
- If you had/have offers, give rough quotes in interviews so people know what you’re worth. Don’t brag, show awareness.
- Demonstrate value before talking pay. Make sure people know you’re worth it.
- Drop hints on your pay research if the subject comes up – and do it once and once only. Let people know you did your checking.
- You are going to have to talk pay eventually. You can’t avoid it.
I hope this helps.
Any other questions? Feel free to ask!