51
Is there some unspoken rule that says that you can't mention a specific figure when you're applying for employment?
I just submitted an application where I named a dollar figure. My husband told me that I should never mention money, only say "negotiable" when asked. Is that true?
Marguerite NicoDedicated Customer Service Professional
51
07/13/21 at 12:34PM UTC
Thank you all for the feedback.
I had filled out an application that asked what my desired salary was. I put down a number that was about mid-point in the range that was listed on the job description, which was when he made his comment.
I have never negotiated a salary before.
Anonymous
07/11/21 at 2:21PM UTC
I completely agree with your husband. Why limit yourself and tie yourself to a specific number? You may just exclude yourself from consideration.
Anonymous
07/11/21 at 1:28PM UTC
I always include a minimum if I am not willing to go below that. Why waste anyones times if it's a hard number for you? Unless it is flexible in which case you can give a range.
Anonymous
07/11/21 at 1:25PM UTC
Give a range.
Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist
21.99k
07/11/21 at 2:03AM UTC
No. Personally, I do not want to either low ball myself or high ball myself so early in the process. Some ATS systems will not let you proceed with your on-line application without putting in a dollar figure. I usually put negotiable but if they require an actual dollar figure, I put all zeros.
You should ask your recruiter as early in the process what the salary range is. Then ask what the target salary is. These are not the same things.
Say the range is $80k to $120k. HR will typically never let an offer go out at over the midpoint, so $100k. The target salary might be $95K.
Anonymous
07/21/21 at 12:20AM UTC
Putting zeros is a fantastic idea! I hate when they force a numeric answer.
Anonymous
07/10/21 at 11:04PM UTC
It is usually a good guideline to offer a brand range if you must provide salary guidance. The reason being they may be looking to offer more than the number in your head. It also gives the company room to maneuver if you priced yourself our of the job.
Stephanie Mansueto, Corporate Recruiter & Job Hunting CoachRecruiter & Job Hunting Coach for Millennials
499
07/10/21 at 10:09PM UTC
Generally speaking that is good advice. Most companies these days have market data they use and will be able to give you a range when you ask during a screening call with a Recruiter or Hiring Manager. If the range is extremely wide and you do have a target number or salary history in the middle or on the high end of the range, I think that's fine to indicate that to the Recruiter or HM. If your salary expectations are over the range, you should notify the Recruiter and get their reaction. Sometimes they'll get special Comp and budget approval to go over the range for a highly desirable candidate. Keep in mind, many states prohibit employers from asking candidates their current or previous salary information as part of increasing equal pay legislation.
