Tip No. 158
Q. How do I respond if a potential employer insists that I list my past salary in their application?
A. Typically you should avoid completing an application until after the interview process, if possible. However, it sounds like that is not the case in this instance. Normally, I would recommend that when you have to complete an application, you simply put a diagonal line through the box that asks for your previous salary. Unfortunately, you will most likely have to divulge it at this point, since the employer is insisting and you have already discussed your salary requirements for the position over the phone with them. You may want to take a look at salaryexpert.com (published by the "Wall Street Journal") and salary.com to make sure the salary requirements you have discussed over the phone and what they offer you are in line with what the market averages are in the geographical area to which you will be relocating. These sites will also provide you with information on the costs of living and how the salaries stack up against those costs. Remember, in my earlier tip, I suggested that you do not divulge salary information, if you can avoid it. Unfortunately, in this instance, you will probably have to be forthcoming with this information. Sometimes, it is just not possible to keep from providing this information. Best of luck to you as you continue to pursue this position.
CMI Career Management International
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