The Best Way to Respond to 'What’s Your Current Salary?' in Job Interviews

When asked about your current salary during a job interview, it's important to navigate the conversation thoughtfully. As explained in this Fast Company article, it's advisable to focus on salary expectations rather than historical data during interviews. Here are some strategies to consider:

1. Redirect to Your Salary Expectations

Instead of disclosing your current salary, focus on your expectations for the new role. You might say:

 “I’m looking for a compensation package that reflects the responsibilities of this position and aligns with the market rate for this role."

This approach emphasizes the value you bring without tying it to your past earnings.

2. Provide a Salary Range

Then you could be pressed for specifics; offer a range based on your research of industry standards:

"Based on my research and the responsibilities of this role, I'm looking for a salary between $X and $Y."

This demonstrates that your expectations are informed and flexible.

3. Highlight Your Value

Another option of the answer is to shift the focus to your skills and how they benefit the company:

"My past salary doesn’t fully represent my current skill level or the value you bring to the table. So, I'd like to discuss how my experience and skills can contribute to your team and determine a fair compensation based on that."

This emphasizes your potential impact rather than past compensation.

By employing these strategies, you can navigate salary discussions with confidence and professionalism, turning a potentially uncomfortable question into an opportunity to demonstrate your value. Redirecting the conversation to focus on your expectations, industry standards, and the value you bring to the role allows you to maintain control and shape the discussion in your own way. This approach not only helps you avoid being tied to your previous salary but also positions you as a knowledgeable and prepared candidate. Ultimately, these tactics ensure that your compensation aligns with the responsibilities and duties of the new role and accurately reflects the skills, expertise, and contributions you bring to the table.