Do you continue the interview process if the salary is too low?

50 Comments

1. AnonymousNovember 13,2022 at 2:53PM UTC

   I was going through the same thing girl. And the answer I got was get more experience, well if you don’t already have alot of it, and settle for now. Unless you do have the luxury to be picky because you have someone or still living at home where rent isint too high. You’ll get there girl, just have to be a little patient. Which I’m still trying to be

2. AnonymousNovember 14,2022 at 4:11PM UTC

   Actually I maybe have too much experience. Which thankfully I’m able to still get interviews as I’ve heard people having the issue of being too experience to qualify for lower level positions.

3. DanielleNovember 13,2022 at 3:03PM UTC

   I think it depends on how low the range is. If I can’t pay my bills on the salary then I do not move forward. Some of the salary ranges are a slap in the face. I don’t see a point if it’s too low to survive on.

   Now, there’s an exception to this rule. If you’re desperate, like unemployed and need money asap, I’d say keep going.

4. AnonymousNovember 13,2022 at 3:13PM UTC

   It depends.
   Are your salary requirements based on the market standard?

5. Fiona EdatNovember 13,2022 at 5:19PM UTC

   If you believe the salary is truly non-negotiable and you are not in dire need of a new job or the practice of interviewing, I think discontinuing the process is okay. As much as practice makes perfect, we can all use our time more wisely.

6. AnonymousNovember 13,2022 at 7:10PM UTC

   I’m the original poster. The range was 49-60k and the lowest I’ll go is 70k. Average for this type of position is 75k. Also this position required travel where as many don’t.

7. Jennifer TaylorNovember 14,2022 at 3:53PM UTC

   I would let the recruiter know that the salary range is too low and what your minimum salary would be. Let them know that you would more than happy to entertain a role and offer that aligns with your requirements.

8. AnonymousNovember 14,2022 at 4:09PM UTC

   Hi Jennifer, Yes, I advised recruiter of this and that I would consider other positions that meet my requirements. They could not increase the salary range.

9. AyianNovember 15,2022 at 1:32PM UTC

   A company that wants you will consider paying more. The recruiter is unable to get their client to budge without evidence of an amazing candidate. They may have had a series of poor candidates and are cautious now. The question is how curious are you about this company's situation vs the time investment to interview.

   I have interviewed at well below required pay and scored top level pay at the time upon hire. The pay range isn't always the pay range.

10. AnonymousNovember 14,2022 at 10:42AM UTC

    Nah you just walk off saying Frick this

11. AnonymousNovember 14,2022 at 3:40PM UTC

    I make double sure that what is bring quoted as the range is truly the range. That sometimes means getting past the recruiter and speaking with the hiring manager. That is exactly how I got my last 2 positions. Most companies are looking for a bargin. But it's been my experience that companies often learn the lesson (after unsuccessfully wasting time and resources) that they have to increase their compensation to get the talent they need. Hiring managers then jump at the chance to score that talent with a more lucrative negotiation with the right candidate. This usually is all behind the scenes. I found out my current position was in flux due to the quality of candidates they could afford. When they met me the fatigue if interviewing gave wave to pumping up the offer.

    My former position was a lower offer that I turned down. 3 months later the chase was on to re-engage with me. They came back with an offer that was my original top end ask.

    It's great you know your range, market value and bottom line. My suggestion is to just make sure there is no room to negotiate.

12. rgstaffing@bellsouth.netNovember 15,2022 at 1:13PM UTC

    How low is too low? I personally do not believe in taking an extreme cut as we know that the candidate will only be there and will continue looking until the candidate sees a position that is paying more. I you are interviewing through a recriuter, you should know the salary range before you agree to go; if you are interviewing directly with the company, it is not inappropriate if you do not know the range, that you reveal what you are earning and say that you are open to any fair offer. In many sttes, it is illegal to ask what a candidate is earning, but they should be able to tell you what the salary range is and what the job is paying. Benefits are inportant but they do not pay the rent. Neither does a bonus which is not guaranteed.

13. Heidi Walker-VillaNovember 15,2022 at 1:17PM UTC

    There are more factors than simply salary. I took a position that is flexible, hybrid, and when I go to the office it is 1 mile from my home. Also the benefits actually get my compensation to where it needs to be once factoring in the amount they contribute to my retirement account. The fact I pay about 200 to 300 less per month for gasoline and maintenance on my vehicle really influenced my decision on if I should take the job. Best decision I ever made and the organization has provided rate increases for performance and taking on additional responsibilities.

14. AnonymousNovember 17,2022 at 12:18AM UTC

    This! I came here to say the same thing. You have to look at all the factors. Sometimes benefits will make up the difference.

15. Cassandra SchmigotzkiNovember 15,2022 at 1:27PM UTC

    Unless it's something, some place, or specific benefits I wouldn't take a job with a lower salary. The job I just took with a former vendor is a lower hourly rate than I was making (focused my job search on higher salary) but the take home is about the same. I'll also be eligible for a raise after 90 days. My husband got to meet them and I think he was more excited about the prospect of me working there than I was.

16. GirlBossanova934974November 15,2022 at 1:37PM UTC

    I have read your follow-up comment to the original post. To avoid problems like this in the future, you should discuss a salary range on the first call with the recruiter. In 10-15 minutes, the call should end with both sides walking away with a simple disagreement on salary. IT IS POSSIBLE that after a few weeks of this, the company will NOT get too many bites for the job in question and the recruiter will go back to the company and stop work until the salary range is raised. Recruiters hate to waste time on hopeless tasks. The only other exception is if there is a nice bonus or bonuses to be paid on the job. In my current role, the salary was $10-$15K too low but the monthly and annual bonuses and free benefits more than made up for that. There was also a good amount of job security vs. many companies these days who think nothing of letting go of a few thousand employees at any given second.

17. TaliaNovember 15,2022 at 1:54PM UTC

    If the TC is too low and you’re not going to make the move then you’re wasting everyone’s time.

18. Milissa JacobsNovember 15,2022 at 1:56PM UTC

    If you know that their offer is too low, save everyone the trouble and don't engage in the process.

19. MichelleNovember 15,2022 at 2:08PM UTC

    There's always room for negotiations. The company is always going to set a 'low ball' figure, but you can always try to negotiate the salary with them, if they're not willing to give you what you're asking for, then it's time to move on.

20. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 2:25PM UTC

    It depends on how low - if it's within a certain range I will go through with the interview, because if they really see your value they should be willing to negotiate. If it's way below my norm I won't waste my time.

21. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 2:28PM UTC

    Absolutely do not waste my time if the range they are targeting is below the # you need to be making to survive, or is below what you are currently making.. I am upfront with the recruiter that THIS is my number, if they say that is potentially do-able even if higher than their range and I really feel the position is right, I will continue. If we agree that my number is NOT doable than I do not continue. Yes negotiations can be made, but if there is an approved range for a position, I do not waste time if I know I'm well above that range.

22. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 2:37PM UTC

    Everyone's situation is different, however I would discuss with your recruiter about your concern and if the company is unwilling to budge on the salary range - then I would turn down continuing the process.

23. Sarah HernandezNovember 15,2022 at 2:42PM UTC

    If they absolutely have no wiggle room I only continue if it is at least what I am making now, AND at a company that would be my dream job. Otherwise, nopety nope.

24. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 2:44PM UTC

    The only time I have taken job offers too low was when I was unemployed; some worked out while others did not. Part of it depends on what you need to survive and how much you want the job. If it just involves tightening your belt a little bit, then do some math that considers commute time, hours you will be expected to work (especially if it is a salary position), options for overtime, and benefits.

    One note about negotiating a salary above the posted salary range: If the company agrees, it may put you in a position where you have to wait a couple of years before you are eligible for a raise. This, of course, depends on how the company sticks to its salary policies and whether or not you are eligible for promotion to a position that aligns more with your salary.

25. Becky JacobyNovember 15,2022 at 2:49PM UTC

    Is there any chance you would accept an offer at that lower salary? Would you ever be satisfied in a role that does not meet your initial salary expectations?

    If there is no flexibility on the salary and it does not meet your expectations, then an interview is not a good use of your time.

26. EMILY KIKUE FRANKNovember 15,2022 at 2:59PM UTC

    It depends on a few things, including by how much it's too low. If it's in range of what you're seeking, it's worth continuing the process and negotiating if you have an offer. And if you aren't getting offers at all, it's also worth getting more interview practice.

27. Madelyn MillsNovember 15,2022 at 3:16PM UTC

    I personally would complete the interviews because interviewing itself, and salary negotiations themselves are great and valuable experience. You don't have to take the job, but you'll be getting interview and negotiating experience for free (well except the cost of your own time).

28. Klaudia Diana DNovember 15,2022 at 3:27PM UTC

    I am willing to continue the process but I stress what is my minimum. If the employer is willing to continue, I treat it like they're willing to negotiate. There's nothing to lose really. Think about how stressful salary negotiation is. Why not "rehearse" it with companies you know you won't work with. Use them for real life negotiation practice :)

    My minimum was 20% higher than my current employer's maximum. I said I can continue the talks. During the process I realised that I love company culture, their benefits and that the yearly bonus will compensate the difference. They stretched their budget for me because I also made good impression on them so it was totally worth it.

29. G C HesseNovember 15,2022 at 3:31PM UTC

    There is a Standard in all Industries. I will not waste my time with a Headhunter if the Standard is not being met. I wonder why a person would.

30. PatriciaNovember 16,2022 at 9:19AM UTC

    If you are broke and have no other option, then a low salary is better that no salary.

31. Maggie StoneNovember 15,2022 at 3:56PM UTC

    I would encourage you to look at the decision somewhat more holistically. I would focus on whether or not you want the job and it meets your career goals. If you are excited about the opportunity, than it may be worth your time to interview. But if it’s significantly less than what you were making or way below industry standards in your area, then no.

32. Melissa VerdoniNovember 15,2022 at 4:11PM UTC

    i will not apply to jobs where the salary isn't posted , i refuse to waste my time or their time. indeed posts 60-70% of salaries.

33. Patriciai AllenNovember 15,2022 at 4:19PM UTC

    If I want the experience and love the company, I would take the job and aim to reshape my role and pursue advancement opportunities. Also, you could consider negotiating your salary during your performance review if were to take the job.

34. Shelby CNovember 15,2022 at 4:37PM UTC

    It depends. If there is such a large gap that I know that I cannot retool my role in the company, reinvent it, and get a substantial raise after I have proven my worth (within six to nine months), then it isn't worth it. I draw the line at about 25%. Otherwise, I am 'stealing' from my future self because I am making less than my potential. That could be set aside for retirement.

35. Rosa GoesNovember 15,2022 at 5:06PM UTC

    I went through a similar experience. It's important to be true to yourself. I think you are doing the right thing and not wasting anyone's time especially yours. The right opportunity will come. You know your value and your skillset is worth your desired salary range. Keep networking, talk to recruiters, and do some professional and/or fun activities outside of work to stay motivated. Good luck to you!

36. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 6:13PM UTC

    I think it depends on the company and the position you’re going for and what your unique skills are. If you have a unique skill set you can continue and see if they decide to up the pay to bring you on. Alternately if you feel you’re a bit overqualified, if you interview well, I have seen them offer a better job to someone. One of my colleagues with IT experience applied for a job that was lower paying and tat she was overqualified for in December, she didn’t get it but in July they called her and offered her a better job using her unique skill set. They liked her and remembered her. If you walk out of an interview, they will remember that too. But it depends on the company and the job. If you’re applying for a home health provider and you want $21 an hour and they’re offering minimum wage, you can probably safely thank them for their time and leave. The chances of them upping the pay by 1/3 for that role are low as are the chances of them offering you a better position. For a job you have skills specific to that industry, don’t burn that bridge. You can tell them it seems low and try to negotiate higher and still turn it down, but let them know if higher paying opportunities arise you would love to work there. Sometimes they do. Even for the same role in a different department sometimes one departments budget isn’t the same as another’s.

37. Audrey KirschNovember 15,2022 at 6:42PM UTC

    I've had to turn down jobs that I really wanted because the salary was too low. You have to know what you can afford to live on. It's so disappointing to have a wonderful interview and really like how the process is going only to find out that you couldn't possibly work for the salary that is being offered. Just be honest. A company knows when their salary is lower than what many are looking for. I'm sure they don't like wasting their time either so will appreciate your being upfront about turning down the job.

38. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 6:51PM UTC

    I don't even interview if the salary range doesn't fit what I am looking for. I'd never waste my time or theirs going into an interview without that information. I rarely even apply for jobs that don't have salaries listed anymore.

39. Melissa MehringNovember 15,2022 at 7:44PM UTC

    My question is, "Why do so many wait until after the interview to discuss salary?" Many of these companies withhold salary information so we cannot see it. It is so frustrating.

40. Ruth SathreNovember 15,2022 at 7:51PM UTC

    Compensation is both the salary and the benefits. If the position is interesting and you have an offer, look at both aspects and negotiate. However, possible wages are an important factor.

41. AnonymousNovember 15,2022 at 10:36PM UTC

    I usually ask what the salary range is for the position when I talk with the recruiter. If companies are offering market rate, they tend to reveal with no issues. If they are concerned about lowering cost and trying to maximize skills without paying market rate, then they tend to avoid disclosing or discussing altogether. I have had recruiters who mentioned to me that the companies are "open" with regards to salaries which in reality, is a tactic to reduce cost. Companies hope that candidates do not know their worth or know what the market rate is for their skills, so they pick candidates who are the "cheapest". In addition, you also notice that after completing interviews, recruiters avoid revealing salaries if they are super low and overly stress on benefits that are offered. Unfortunately, most benefits are geared towards families or candidates with children. As a single person with no children, why would I care about benefits for family or children? When I am an employee, I probably only use 30% of total benefits available so straight up cash in the form of higher salary is better for me.

42. Lori SchmitzNovember 16,2022 at 1:37AM UTC

    i usually bow out of the process of the salary is too low. Feels disingenuous to continue and I know they’re not going to be able to pay me and I don’t wanna waste their time or mine

43. AnonymousNovember 16,2022 at 6:44AM UTC

    Yes, because it helps me passing future interviews.

44. PatriciaNovember 16,2022 at 9:16AM UTC

    When I had been unemployed for 15 months I was keen to land any long contract to create some stability as permanent roles are few and far between in my field. I took a 12 month contract that paid me less than half of what I normally earn as there was nothing else available and I was on the dole for the first time in my life. It was rather difficult financially, basically treading water and slowly drowning, but it paid off. I landed better paying roles since then and slowly getting back on my feet. If I had not taken this lower paid role I am not sure how much longer I could have lasted on the dole, waiting for the right salary range. The longer you remain unemployed the less opportunities.... and I really couldn't risk the chance of being unemployed another 15 months and losing my home.

45. Afo Ogbeyalu KaluNovember 16,2022 at 12:13PM UTC

    I agree with both sides of "the argument", but at the end of the day, a candidate should do what is best for them and their situation. Luckily, pay transparency bills are being ratified across the nation, so this should be a non-issue in the near future.

46. Crystal HowellNovember 16,2022 at 8:31PM UTC

    Yes, find out the salary range upfront and if room for negotiation at the end?

    Break out the https://www.salary.com stats

47. AnonymousNovember 17,2022 at 12:33AM UTC

    If you know the market rate for your position and number you will not go below that helps. Know your expenses and what you need to say yes. I would be honest and say that is lower than what you need and ask if there is room for negotiation. Some organizations do not pay market rate. They may offer something in place like great benefits to try and make up for the low compensation, but know the number you cannot go below.

48. AnonymousNovember 17,2022 at 12:46AM UTC

    I would look at the total rewards/ compensation package. If their medical benefits are far superior, like no premiums or they have a high 401k- like 7+ % without match then I would say you need to factor that in as additional compensation. If you are saving $500 a month on health insurance and getting an extra $100 a month to your 401k you should consider that.

    Also, factor things in like commuting- wear and tear and costs. If it is closer so you would save time and money that should be a factor. Also, if you work from home, hybrid, better work life balance, or a flexible schedule that may make it more valuable in the long run as well.

49. AnonymousNovember 17,2022 at 12:55AM UTC

    I will add on to this. My current position is with an educational entity. They cannot afford to pay market rate for my position. My job is not in education, and I could work in a different industry. However, the benefits are so amazing that it makes up for the lost wages. When considering benefits I make close to market rate. I would be paying the extra amount I would receive in a paycheck elsewhere to a different company's health insurance, retirement, etc. I also have a much more flexible working arrangement than I would have at many other places, so it is worth it to me.

50. Liz MilneNovember 21,2022 at 12:11AM UTC

    I would highball them, personally.

    'The salary range is [whatever].'

    'Oh. Oh, dear, I can't accept less than [about 25% more than I actually want]'

    Hopefully, that triggers a discussion and if they like me, they're prepared to up their offer a bit?