I have worked for about 8 years since my undergrad. I currently make $70k+ but have made $84k at one point. I am six months into my job and feel I need a change.
2007-01-29 09:40:05 · 15 answers · asked by Juse 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Careers & Employment
For some reason people view this as a touchy question, but really it isn't... the recruiter or whoever is asking the question truly wants to know how much money you are looking for to be satisfied. If it's too much, then they can take you off the list. If it's too low, it's possible to question whether you are a good candidate for the job to begin with, as certain salary levels generally can be associated with certain levels of experience, education and/or skill, depending on what type of work it is. And if they hire you in for too low of a salary, you're not going to be satisfied and will begin looking for a different position soon after, as is the case with your current position.
The best thing to say when asked is exactly what you just said, you are making $70K now and feel you are underpaid (tell the truth as they could ask for pay verification) and you were at $84K in the past, and perhaps you thought the new lower-paying job could provide more future posibilities, but it's not working out like you expected. So, what you are saying to a recruiter is that you are unwilling to work for $70K, and would like something in the vicinity of $84K, but might take slightly less if the job offers good future potential. If they throw you out as a candidate because the position doesn't pay that much or it pays significantly more than that and they think you're not experienced enough for it, it saves everyone time.
2007-01-29 09:51:39 · answer #1 · answered by Josh 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all, why do you need a change after only 6 months in a job? If I were your recruiter, that would be my first question. Next, a range is always best. Many people have already said between 70-80 is a good range. If the new job is basically doing the same thing you are doing, then I would start the range a little higher (because you have experience) so say 72-80. However, I repeat needing a change after only 6 months is a RED FLAG. I wouldn't hire you and I am an employement coach.
2007-01-29 09:49:29 · answer #2 · answered by Susan B 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Desired salary range and salary history are two different things.
Tell recruiters that you are interested in a job change that offers you more responsibility/challenge/ whatever, and that you expect that the salaries for positions presented to you will be fair considering market rate and your experience.
If they want to know your salary history, be honest. This is one thing they can and will definitely ask when checking references.
It's OK to say that you want at least an x% increase to move. Remember, a recruiter gets paid when they place someone in a job. So they want to know what is necessary to get that placement made. And they will tell you if you're way out of the zone.
2007-01-29 09:54:20 · answer #3 · answered by maxinestringbean 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your best answer is given in your question. Give the recruiter your salary history (70K to 84K). Then offer your hopes for your future salary and the minimum you will accept if the new position is 'right'.
Best wishes and good luck.
2007-01-29 09:47:18 · answer #4 · answered by Doctor J 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say: "My last few positions have ranged between the mid 70s to the mid 80s." If they ask specifically how much you are making now, you have two options: 1) refuse which may piss them off but keeps it confidential, 2) tell them which will keep the relationship good but potentially diminishes your bargaining capability. The other thing to do is explain that you took a pay cut to go to your current position because you thought it would be a good opportunity, but it has not turned out to be; and, that you are looking to get back nearer your earlier salary.
2007-01-29 09:46:51 · answer #5 · answered by astralpen 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
suddenly everyone is making 70 to 80k and I am just wondering where you work other than NYC for that honestly. And in NYC that is like 22k out here in the usa. I know lots of service people plumbers, carpenters, mechanics, etc that make that after 10 to 15 years but college grads on average take 10 to 15 years also to make that.
2007-01-29 10:01:36 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do your homework before you go.
Find out what the going rate for your profession and at your skill level is getting.
If you are applying for a position that requires some more in-house training , ask mid-range.
If you will be able to hit the block running the first week, ask for top range.
2007-01-29 09:48:11 · answer #7 · answered by kate 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well you should tell him what you hope to be making and what can live with making and come to a comfortable medium or understanding. Obviously you took a huge pay cut somewhere along the line and explain that to him/her. You should have a rewarding job and if you don't believe what your making is getting you that your right it is time for a change.
2007-01-29 09:48:06 · answer #8 · answered by babycakes7795 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What is the range for the position you are applying for? What can you reasonably live on? If you go too high, you won't get it, but if you short change yourself, you won't be happy.
I would have to say that if 70-80 is a reasonable range for the position, then say that.
2007-01-29 09:45:42 · answer #9 · answered by BMW BFD 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why should a recruiter ask u your salary range but okay tell him
its between 75k to 80k
2007-01-29 09:47:41 · answer #10 · answered by keepitreal 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋