Recruiter: “What salary are you looking for?“
Candidate: “What's the budget for this role?“
Why do recruiters ask about salary expectations during the first call? 🤔
Contrary to popular belief, it's not because they want to lowball you. In fact, many companies have strict salary ranges, so even if you mention a figure below their range, they'll likely offer you a salary within their predetermined bracket and based on their compensation policy.
For recruiters, discussing salary is a crucial step in ensuring that both parties are aligned and can move forward effectively. Here's why:
1️⃣ Alignment: Not all companies publicly disclose salary ranges. By addressing your expectations upfront, the recruiter can determine if there's a match before investing more time in the process. Everyone saves time!
2️⃣ Salary benchmarking: Your salary information helps recruiters understand current market rates for similar positions and experience levels, contributing to their knowledge base.
3️⃣ Negotiation baseline: If you progress through the interview process, recruiters may use your salary expectation as a starting point for negotiating an offer. Keep in mind that your salary expectations could evolve as you learn more about the role!
As a job seeker, here are a few things to keep in mind:
💡 If you need more information about the role to provide a precise salary expectation, it's perfectly acceptable to tell the recruiter that you'd like to discuss this after the first call with the hiring manager.
💡 While it's common for recruiters to inquire about salary early on, you're NOT obligated to disclose your current earnings. In some locations, it's even illegal for them to ask about your current salary.
💡 Instead, share your desired salary range for the new role based on your research and market value. Never say, “This is my minimum!“
💡 Ask questions to better understand the company's compensation philosophy and you can ask them about the budget for the role they are trying to fill.
Setting expectations for both parties early in the process is crucial. This will help you avoid going through multiple rounds only to receive an offer that falls short of your expectations.
