Can you choose not to answer?

Question

Can you choose not to answer in an interview how much is your current salary? In the place I currently work it's very well known that all employees are underpaid (small firm, etc) however, I heard that salaries represent the "value" of a person in the market. My current salary is way to low from the average. I have an interview in a few days and I'm sure they may ask me how much I'm making at my current job. I don't want that number affect a fair salary based on the market. Any suggestions? Thanks so much for your help!

If you decide to not answer can they call your professional reference and ask how much I've been paid?

Answer 1

Of course you can choose not to answer salary questions, the same as with all other questions. But understand that you are trying to present yourself in the best possible light during an interview. So be very diplomatic how you answer (or refuse to answer) questions.

When asked about your current salary, say something like this:

"I realize that I am underpaid for what I am capable of doing. Although I enjoy my current job, my employer is not able to pay me appropriately. This is part of the reason I am seeking other employment. I'm sure your company will offer a salary that compensates me for my skills and work performance."

Answer 2

You can, however, it doesn't look good to a recruiter. Instead, think of it as the opening gambit in a negotiation. You never want to be the one to give up the $$ first. So, your reply to the recruiter could be something like, "Well, I'd like to understand what the salary range is for the position before we get down to specifics." Or, "I'm sure Company Z's salaries are competitive with the market rate for this position."

You could also indicate that part of the reason you're looking for a new job is that your current company's pay practices are not competitive with the labor market. The point is that you aren't refusing to answer - you're answering with a question or statement that will hopefully push the recruiter to reveal more info.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Yes. You can choose not to answer. An option is to respond expressing your expectations. Tell then you are searching for a new opp. because you feel under paid and that's it.
Your employer cannot disclose information without your approval, but if they do their homework, they can figure out what range you are in.
In most cases, the job they are searching to fill has a salary range established, if you fit the profile, they will extend and offer within that range.

Answer 4

You need to be less than direct in answering that question. Your answer must tell them that you know you are underpaid without being a negative remark towards your current employer. You can give an answer like, "below the market for my skills, that's why I am seeking a better growth position with your company." or something like that.

Answer 5

Make it clear to prospective employers that you are seeking a new position because of the low salary at your present position. You should have a good idea of the salary range that you would accept. If your profession lends it's self to research of common salary ranges you should be well informed on that issue.

Answer 6

Might just as well answer because they can ask when they call for a reference, it is legal to ask if a person work from date a to date b and if they were paid x amount, so tell them but also let them know what you would like to start, doesn't mean you'll get it but at least you've been honest.

Use to work in the employment field.

Answer 7

I have never been asked that in an interview. If they ask, you can state "the medium level for my profession"-if they push, that is not professional at all. Salary usually isn't discussed until a job offer is being made, at which point negotiation is expected.

Answer 8

I don't think you should refuse outright, but you can try to negotiate that you would prefer to hear their offer first, explaining what you have done here about your current salary being under industry standard. But don't lie, often an employer will want to see a check stub from your current (or previous) position to verify information.

Answer 9

Well, I wouldn't lie about it, because that might hurt you later. You can tell them how much you make now, but also have salary requirements for the new position. I think employers realize everyone is paid differently.

Answer 10

That is considered confidential information, and you can say that you prefer not to disclose the amount. I was in a slightly similar position. I was working at Walgreen's at 6.25/hr. I was offered a position at Home Depot at 6.50/hr with similar or less hours. They based the pay off what I was already getting and thought they were doing me a favor.