Some clients tell me they feel uneasy when employers ask them what their salary history is. (This question is unlawful to ask in some states, but not all.) The question brings about anxiety because they are unsure what the consequences will bring and worry their answer can either cost them the job or reduce a potential offer.
On the surface, it seems like a fair question. What is your monetary expectation?
But underneath, there is something hidden. The withholding of information.
Let’s say you feel you are currently being underpaid. Does this mean you are stuck with underpayment forever? No, it does not. Let’s say you are volunteering, and getting paid zero. Does this mean you get paid zero again? No.
It does not matter what you are currently being paid; only what the job is worth.
When you walk into a store, you know what something cost. There is a price listed. It’s clear.
For job seekers, this rule of clarity does not always apply. Job seekers have to guess what an employer is paying. This is one-sided.
You can’t force employers to disclose information they don’t want to, but you can be prepared to receive the best salary offer possible.
How? Follow these steps:
Determine what you want to get paid.
Ask yourself, “What do I want my salary to be?” Many clients cannot answer this question. You cannot ask for something unless you know what to ask for. Spend time with your finances. Determine what is coming in and going out. This is your breakeven point. Add in what you want in savings. Add in contingency funds. Then, add 10%. Does this number motivate you? If yes, this is your number.
Research the market.
An alternative reply to “what do you want to get paid?” is, “I have researched the market and see this role is paying in the range of A to B. I believe I fit into this range because… (Summarize your credentials.) Are you willing to pay that?” Turn their question into your question, and the power shifts to you. (Salary sites help with research.) Money can be an emotional topic. Outside information can bring objectivity and perspective into an uncomfortable situation.
Ask for what you want.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. You may hear “yes” when you ask. Or, you may hear “no.” At least you asked. Employers will value you when you value yourself first. If they don’t, it’s not a place where you want to work. Move on.
Be prepared to negotiate.
A salary is more than an annual number. It can include expenses and benefits. What else would make you happy? Your education expenses covered? Your cell phone bill? Daycare? Extra vacation days? Flex time? Many companies have salary caps, but have wiggle room for extras.
Remember: be proud of what you bring to the table. And, don’t settle for less.
Get Out Of The “Being Underpaid” Trap
Some clients tell me they feel uneasy when employers ask them what their salary history is. (This question is unlawful to ask in some states, but not all.) The question brings about anxiety because they are unsure what the consequences will bring and worry their answer can either cost them the job or reduce a potential offer.
On the surface, it seems like a fair question. What is your monetary expectation?
But underneath, there is something hidden. The withholding of information.
Let’s say you feel you are currently being underpaid. Does this mean you are stuck with underpayment forever? No, it does not. Let’s say you are volunteering, and getting paid zero. Does this mean you get paid zero again? No.
It does not matter what you are currently being paid; only what the job is worth.
When you walk into a store, you know what something cost. There is a price listed. It’s clear.
For job seekers, this rule of clarity does not always apply. Job seekers have to guess what an employer is paying. This is one-sided.
You can’t force employers to disclose information they don’t want to, but you can be prepared to receive the best salary offer possible.
How? Follow these steps:
Determine what you want to get paid.
Ask yourself, “What do I want my salary to be?” Many clients cannot answer this question. You cannot ask for something unless you know what to ask for. Spend time with your finances. Determine what is coming in and going out. This is your breakeven point. Add in what you want in savings. Add in contingency funds. Then, add 10%. Does this number motivate you? If yes, this is your number.
Research the market.
An alternative reply to “what do you want to get paid?” is, “I have researched the market and see this role is paying in the range of A to B. I believe I fit into this range because… (Summarize your credentials.) Are you willing to pay that?” Turn their question into your question, and the power shifts to you. (Salary sites help with research.) Money can be an emotional topic. Outside information can bring objectivity and perspective into an uncomfortable situation.
Ask for what you want.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get. You may hear “yes” when you ask. Or, you may hear “no.” At least you asked. Employers will value you when you value yourself first. If they don’t, it’s not a place where you want to work. Move on.
Be prepared to negotiate.
A salary is more than an annual number. It can include expenses and benefits. What else would make you happy? Your education expenses covered? Your cell phone bill? Daycare? Extra vacation days? Flex time? Many companies have salary caps, but have wiggle room for extras.
Remember: be proud of what you bring to the table. And, don’t settle for less.
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