When is it okay to ask how much a job pays (See details)?

Question

I'm looking for a job again and I'm on a really strict budget and have little to no extra time to invest in a job that can't meet my budget needs. When is the earliest time I can ask how much the job pays? Is it okay to call and ask, can I ask when I fill out the app/send in my resume, or should I wait until the interview. I definitely don't want to lose the job....HELP!

Answer 1

Ask during the interview. It's totally approrpiate, and by that time they will want to hire you so you have leverage.

Answer 2

You aren't doing any favours to anyone if you wait until the interview to ask what the salary is. They don't want to waste time sorting through applications, finding a good one, and doing an interview, then discovering that person doesn't want to work for the offered salary. Much better to call up ahead of time and find out the salary range. The earlier you do it, the better it is -- both for you and for the potential employer.
They don't put a black mark against your name in case you apply for another job, so don't worry about that. In fact, when you call, you can tell them that the salary isn't quite in your target range, and ask if there are any other openings at a higher level.
In the business world, there is a time to be frank and open, and this is one of those times.
Good luck in finding a job.

Answer 3

It's not what you want to hear, but you should not ask until you are either offered the position or the second interview (which ever is sooner). You run the risk of losing the position if you appear that you are only motivated by the salary. Also, be prepared that you may be asked how much you are looking for. Have an honest answer in the back of your mind, but also be prepared to turn the question back on them by asking something like: "now that you've heard about my qualifications, what do you feel comfortable offering?" Good luck!

Answer 4

It's generally best to wait until the position is actually offered to you before inquiring about salary and benefits. NEVER EVER ask these questions over the phone! This will close the door before you even make the interview.

Interviewers want to be assured that you want that SPECIFIC job before disclosing the terms of employment. It's not convenient, especially in this struggling economy when the competition for every job is so fierce, but it's the way hiring managers usually conduct business.

Answer 5

Wait until the interview.....then wait until they show interest in hiring you.Let them ask all the questions.When they're done they should ask you if YOU have any questions.If you sense that the interview is coming to an end,and they still haven't asked if you have any questions, then it's time to step up and tell them that you have some questions.If they don't give you an opportunity to ask questions....run like hell.The job probably sucks.
When you do get the chance to ask questions,don't ask "So...what's it pay?"....say something more like "I'm interested in knowing what you offer as compensation.".
They still might not give a clear answer as to pay....they might go on about insurance,time off,holidays,etc....
Now it's time to get down to brass tacks.Ask them straght-up what the starting pay is.Try to bargain your way up,if you feel that your skills are worth more than what they offer,but don't try to screw yourself out of a job.
You might still end up waiting for a follow-up call before they answer.
Show up dressed nice.That always helps.

Answer 6

my personal opinion is that employers must understand that people don't want to waste time going through the whole process only to find out the job doesn't pay enough. i think you should ask how much the job pays before the interview (in as polite a way as you possibly can). if they have a problem with you asking that, then there is something wrong with the company or the pay.

Answer 7

Wait until they offer you the job. It really doesn't matter before that. The interview experience will help you practice anyway. Once they offer you the job, you can ask the salary and you may even be able to negotiate a higher salary if they really want you. If you ask too early there will be too many other candidates they might not bother interviewing you.

Answer 8

Wait until you sense that you are accepted during the interview. That should be as the interview is being wrapped up. Do not ask the interviewer(s) before or during the course of your being asked questions, you will antagonize the interviewer and your chances of being hired is good as shot. Sometimes, the interviewer will volunteer the information at the latter part.

Answer 9

I believe it is okay to ask what the pay is and if they have any kind of benefits. When you call don't give your name. Just ask about the job and casually bring up the pay. You don't need to go into details about what you want. Alot of companies will not give out any details-they would suggest you come in and fill out an application and that the hiring manager will discuss that with you. If that's the case then just ask if they have any ideas about the pay or what they usually pay and alot times they will give you an estimate or the exact pay. It doesn't hurt to ask!
Good Luck!

Answer 10

If it's not listed in the ad (assuming it's advertised) then definitely ask if you get an interview...that is pertinent information and a potential employer pretty much expects that question if the salary wasn't stated up front...there aren't many people who are going to take a job if they have no idea what it pays or what the benefits are...

Answer 11

Usually you wait until they bring up the topic of salary. If you bring up the topic of salary before they do then it looks like you are more in it for the money than the job itself and that you are willing to jump ship whenever the opportunity for a buck comes along. Now if you are reffering to jobs that pay by the hour, such as working at Burger King then you can bring up the topic during your interview.