Show me the money

Job seekers world over cringe when it comes time to talk about money.  It is an important topic so try to avoid these pitfalls when asked to disclose your income or income expectations.

Obviously by disclosing this information, you, as a job seeker,may limit your power to negotiate a better package.

But what should you do if you do not want to disclose their income or expectations?

Try these strategies when filling out job applications to keep the lines of communication open.

Salary range

Job seekers could include a salary range rather than a specific number. This allows you to do some research on the industry and determine an acceptable range.

It allows applicants and the employer some flexibility. Applicants won’t be locked into a low salary nor will you be discarded for having salary expectations that are too high.

I look forward to our chat…

If you are uncomfortable about setting a salary range without a clear idea of the job, you could include an answer like this: “I look forward to the chance to discuss this role and associated responsibilities. I feel that this conversation will ensure that I have a better understanding of your expectations and what compensation I should seek.”

Be upfront

If being evasive is not something you are comfortable with or perhaps the employer is pushing for an answer, then you disclose your pay and expectations with a response that shares your concerns on the matter.

For example, if you believe you are underpaid and don’t want to be low-balled, then say “I am aware my current/previous salary is below market value, based on the industry, my skill set and experience I would expect a salary of [salary range].”