Expert insights. Personalized for you.
Sponsored by MightyRecruiter For years, job interviews have led up to the coy guessing game known as the salary negotiation. One way around all this high-stakes guessing has been to become increasingly inquisitive about salary history, with some employers going. MORE
At my first phone interview, they told me the salary range — about 30%-50% above what I’m paid now. I knew my salary at my current company was low, and so I was very excited to talk to a company that wasn’t asking my current salary. Today, they asked for my “current compensation and bonus payout history. My pay has gone up based on a percentage of my (low) salary, even as I’ve taken on more responsibility. happy endings salary MORE
A reader writes: How does a company go about verifying your self-reported salary history for a background check? On it, there is a large portion dedicated to salary history. On the form, where it asks for salary history, it also asks if they can contact the employer. So how exactly are they going to verify my salary then? My second problem is, I actually don’t remember exact salary information for my past positions. references salary MORE
& Dale: Why do employers ask job applicants for their salary histories? I know the standard answer is to screen out those with unrealistic salary expectations. Give them the history, get in there and set the hook, get the offer, and then be a good negotiator. MORE
How to factor overtime pay into salary history. My current salary is around $42,000 with overtime. When I go into negotiating my salary for my next job, what would be the best way to approach this discrepancy in my salary? Well, ideally you wouldn’t be talking about your salary history at all, since it’s no one’s business but yours. In that case, you might be better off saying, “My salary is $42,000, plus overtime pay.”). MORE
Speaking of salary, as we were in that last post: It’s annoying as hell to be asked to give your salary history when applying for a new job, and it’s no secret that employers use that information to figure out what salary you’re likely to accept from them – which puts candidates in an unfair position and raises obvious worries about leaving money on the table. salary MORE
Maybe you’ve considered inflating your salary history to see if you can negotiate a higher salary offer from a new employer. Thinking about padding your resume or exaggerating your experience in a job interview? Stop right there. Lying during a hiring process can destroy your chances of ever being hired with that employer – and it’s easier to be caught than you might think. At U.S. MORE
stop putting your salary history on your resume here’s the right way to format your resume was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. The hardest part of writing an effective resume is figuring out the content – how to talk about your achievements in ways that tie to what an employer is looking for. But people also do an awful lot of agonizing about the smaller details of a resume – things like format, length, and even font choices. MORE
Like Google, Facebook, and Cisco, Amazon has announced that they will throw out the “tell us your salary history” question in the hopes of eliminating the effects of past discrimination. When employers can’t ask about salary history, they’ll make assumptions based on what they think they know, Doleac said. Not knowing the salary history reduces the bias, not increases it. MORE
That’s right–those salary history questions in MA will be illegal starting in January 2018. Basing current salary on a previous salary is a pretty dumb and lazy thing to do. MORE
QUESTIONS CAREER ADVICE ARTICLES CLIMBING THE LADDER CHOOSING A CAREER PATH INTERVIEWING JOB SEARCH TACTICS NETWORKING RESUME & COVER LETTER SCORING AN INTERNSHIP Home » CAREER ADVICE ARTICLES » JOB SEARCH TACTICS » Why Do Employers Ask for Salary Histories? MORE
This show is packed with practical and powerful advice to help women to level the salary playing field. Lydia is the Senior Director of Marketing for Payscale and salary negotiation columnist for Money.com. Women should not offer salary history. MORE
of the population, you love getting a job offer but hate negotiating salary. But salary negotiation doesn’t have to be so tricky. News & World Report today, I talk about eight mistakes to avoid, which will make you significantly better off than most salary negotiators — including letting the employer base their offer on your past salary history, not verifying your research, and more. salary Unless you’re different than 99.3% MORE
Why Asking For Salary History Is Bad Recruiting. One of the most common recruiting practices today is to seek out a candidate’s salary history. However, states like Massachusetts are now passing laws prohibiting companies from asking the salary history question. MORE
“Employers can legally pay women less than men for the same work based on differences in the workers’ previous salaries, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday,” says the Associated Press. “Employers can pay women less than men based on salary histories, 9th Circuit rules,” says the ABA Law Journal. It ruled that you could use a previous salary to determine current salary. MORE
News & World Report today, I talk about 10 things that don’t belong on your resume, including your salary history, your photo, an objective, and other such odoriferous things. What you don’t include on your resume can be as important as what you do include. Over at U.S. You can read it here. resumes MORE
A reader writes: I wondered if readers could share stories about successfully refusing to share their salary history. I had to give salary history about three different ways for my new job–I tried to demur but there was really no way around it. In fact, New York City is expected to make it illegal to ask for salary history very soon (and Massachusetts banned it last year, and California is considering legislation to do the same). MORE
You can also use this paragraph to give the employer information that they asked for in their ad that would typically not go on a resume such as salary history and expectations. MORE
stop putting your salary history on your resume why are contractors treated like second-class citizens, boss enters without knocking, and more handling the government shutdown: an open thread for federal employees and contractors was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: I’m a longtime lurker. I’m hoping you would be willing to host an open thread for federal employees and federal contractors on handling the government shutdown. MORE
But surely hormone therapy doesn’t seem appropriate merely for salary negotations. If someone says, “Let’s revisit your salary in three months.” The most important script for women is probably the one that avoids having to give salary history. MORE
In general, you should NOT include salary information on your resume. Sometimes your prospective employers may ask for your salary requirements or salary history, but unless there is a penalty for omission, such as your resume will be rejected, do not include the information. MORE
Now that you have revised my résumé, I am finally getting interviews after being unemployed since 2009, but I am wondering what to say when Human Resources asks about my salary. Regarding your previous salary history, it is best to be up front. Dear Deb, Q. MORE
Online application illegally asking for salary history. I’m currently completing an online application for an organization in Washington state, where in July it became illegal to ask applicants what their previous salary was. It’s still asking for previous salary, despite the state law that now prohibits it, and the form requires the field be filled in before the application can be submitted.” It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go…. MORE
A reader writes: I am applying for a position with a nonprofit that has requested me to include my salary history along with my resume and cover letter (emailed to a “jobs@company.org” mailbox). Your salary history is no one’s business but yours. What matters is what you’d bring to them and what a fair salary for that would be. So it’s BS, and it’s BS that’s designed to give them the upper hand in salary negotiations. MORE
A reader writes: I’ve been wondering about whether or not it’s ever okay to exaggerate your past salary. My current salary is significantly lower than what someone in a for-profit company would be making for the same responsibilities. My friends in the past have bumped up their salaries to get a higher pay in their next job, and they are encouraging me to do the same. Don’t lie about your salary. salary MORE
You may also like: my male coworker makes more money than I do update: my male coworker makes more money than I do the first state has made it illegal to ask about salary history what to do if you’re being paid less than a male coworker was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. law + order outside salaryIf you’re a woman who suspects you’re being paid less than male coworkers for the same work, you don’t need to just stew quietly. MORE
What is your salary history?” How to Deal with Salary History QuestionsHere’s a question that should be illegal and is definitely unethical. I think companies have a lot of. nerve to ask what you have been paid in the past. Isn’t this confidential information between an employee and previous employers? I’d like to hear what other people on this board think about this subject or better yet, a story on BNET about this practice. MORE
Whether you want some quick advice on how to do well in a phone interview, are wondering how to answer questions about your salary history, or want to know the benefits of creating an online portfolio, Career Digital has you covered. MORE
If you’re having trouble sorting the spreadsheet of people’s salary data : Your link may have defaulted to a /htmlview view. what’s wrong with “do what you love,” how employers can get your salary history, and more if you’re having trouble sorting the salary spreadsheet… was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. salary MORE
One of the uncomfortable parts of a job search is discussion of salary. Most of us don’t really like negotiations over salary and fear that putting our current wage on paper might doom us to repeat it. Employers have various reasons for requesting salary information. MORE
Salary. Including salary information on your resume generally works against you. When included, a hiring manager may use this information to benchmark whether or not the candidate falls within the salary range of their open position. MORE
In a prime example of lawmakers not understanding business, the state has outlawed employers from asking interviewees about their salary history. You didn't ask her for her salary, but you're getting her reaction to what you can pay. Massachusetts has lost its mind. MORE
I find it very odd that they recommend to have salary and hours listed for every job performed. However, I’m going to use this as an opportunity to say loudly to everyone else: STOP PUTTING YOUR SALARY INFO ON YOUR RESUME. stop putting your salary history on your resume was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. MORE
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed a bill on Monday that prohibits employers from asking candidates about their salary history. The theory is that since women tend to have lower salaries than men, and since many businesses make their current salary offer based on previous salaries, one underpaid job in 1992 can affect you the rest of your life. To keep reading, click here: Philadelphia Joins Massachusetts in Making Salary History Questions Illegal. MORE
Last year, the 9th circuit ruled that it was okay to pay a teacher from Arizona who moved to California less than her co-workers because the formula was based strictly on the previous salary and had nothing to do with sex. If the teachers in question had all been male or all been female, the salary discrepancy would have been the same. This week, though, in an En Banc ruling, they flipped it around to say the previous salary is never a valid reason for a difference in pay. MORE
Advice for employers who want job candidates’ salary history. Her editor sent her my article on how job seekers can avoid giving out their salary history, and suggested that Suzanne write an article telling hiring managers how to get candidates to give up their salary histories. A few miscellaneous things – 1. I love this article from Suzanne Lucas (of evilhrlady.org ). MORE
This show is packed with practical and powerful advice to help women to level the salary playing field. Lydia is the Senior Director of Marketing for Payscale and salary negotiation columnist for Money.com. Women should not offer salary history. MORE
What is your salary history?” How to Deal with Salary History QuestionsHere’s a question that should be illegal and is definitely unethical. I think companies have a lot of. nerve to ask what you have been paid in the past. Isn’t this confidential information between an employee and previous employers? I’d like to hear what other people on this board think about this subject or better yet, a story on BNET about this practice. MORE
→ What to Do When Asked About Your Previous Salary Posted on April 13, 2010 by Jennifer Anthony By Jennifer Anthony Score! You meet with the boss, and all goes favorably until you are asked the dreaded question, “Tell me about your salary history.” MORE
Are you prepared for the salary talk? Generally the salary conversation is saved for the tail end of the interview process. or will ask for a salary history. Remember, your compensation comprises much more than just the salary amount. MORE
Salary can be a very touchy subject when it comes to negotiating a job offer. Many job seekers are uneasy talking about their salary history with prospective employers. Divulging salary information first can often put you at a disadvantage, but you may have no choice. MORE
They don’t understand that today’s resume is a marketing document, designed for the digital age – not a career history merely outlining job responsibilities, with a few achievements thrown in. Salary history. MORE
to ban asking about salary history. The step is a victory for job seekers, who have long been put at a disadvantage by employers who base salary offers on past earnings, which has meant that people who have been making below-market wages are more likely to continue to be underpaid. salaryMassachusetts has made it illegal for employers to ask job candidates what they’ve earned in the past. MORE
“When a job posting asks for salary info, what do you recommend?” Salary history or target salary should be included in a cover letter. Here’s a little background on why the company is asking in the first place … FOR PRESCREENING PURPOSES. That’s it! Place the details within the bottom third of the cover letter MORE
Salary History Related Topics 
The Undercover Recruiter
APRIL 17, 2018
Sponsored by MightyRecruiter For years, job interviews have led up to the coy guessing game known as the salary negotiation. One way around all this high-stakes guessing has been to become increasingly inquisitive about salary history, with some employers going.
Professional Resume Services
AUGUST 3, 2012
Salary can be a very touchy subject when it comes to negotiating a job offer. Many job seekers are uneasy talking about their salary history with prospective employers. Divulging salary information first can often put you at a disadvantage, but you may have no choice.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Evil HR Lady
JANUARY 25, 2017
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney signed a bill on Monday that prohibits employers from asking candidates about their salary history. The theory is that since women tend to have lower salaries than men, and since many businesses make their current salary offer based on previous salaries, one underpaid job in 1992 can affect you the rest of your life. To keep reading, click here: Philadelphia Joins Massachusetts in Making Salary History Questions Illegal.
Evil HR Lady
JANUARY 25, 2018
Like Google, Facebook, and Cisco, Amazon has announced that they will throw out the “tell us your salary history” question in the hopes of eliminating the effects of past discrimination. When employers can’t ask about salary history, they’ll make assumptions based on what they think they know, Doleac said. Not knowing the salary history reduces the bias, not increases it.
Career Realism
APRIL 15, 2017
Why Asking For Salary History Is Bad Recruiting. One of the most common recruiting practices today is to seek out a candidate’s salary history. However, states like Massachusetts are now passing laws prohibiting companies from asking the salary history question.
Evil HR Lady
APRIL 12, 2018
Last year, the 9th circuit ruled that it was okay to pay a teacher from Arizona who moved to California less than her co-workers because the formula was based strictly on the previous salary and had nothing to do with sex. If the teachers in question had all been male or all been female, the salary discrepancy would have been the same. This week, though, in an En Banc ruling, they flipped it around to say the previous salary is never a valid reason for a difference in pay.
Career Realism
OCTOBER 1, 2010
QUESTIONS CAREER ADVICE ARTICLES CLIMBING THE LADDER CHOOSING A CAREER PATH INTERVIEWING JOB SEARCH TACTICS NETWORKING RESUME & COVER LETTER SCORING AN INTERNSHIP Home » CAREER ADVICE ARTICLES » JOB SEARCH TACTICS » Why Do Employers Ask for Salary Histories?
Evil HR Lady
JANUARY 12, 2011
What is your salary history?” How to Deal with Salary History QuestionsHere’s a question that should be illegal and is definitely unethical. I think companies have a lot of. nerve to ask what you have been paid in the past. Isn’t this confidential information between an employee and previous employers? I’d like to hear what other people on this board think about this subject or better yet, a story on BNET about this practice.
HR Capitalist
AUGUST 3, 2016
In a prime example of lawmakers not understanding business, the state has outlawed employers from asking interviewees about their salary history. You didn't ask her for her salary, but you're getting her reaction to what you can pay. Massachusetts has lost its mind.
JT & Dale Talk Jobs
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010
& Dale: Why do employers ask job applicants for their salary histories? I know the standard answer is to screen out those with unrealistic salary expectations. Give them the history, get in there and set the hook, get the offer, and then be a good negotiator.
Ask A Manager
APRIL 17, 2015
I find it very odd that they recommend to have salary and hours listed for every job performed. However, I’m going to use this as an opportunity to say loudly to everyone else: STOP PUTTING YOUR SALARY INFO ON YOUR RESUME. stop putting your salary history on your resume was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager.
Ask A Manager
JANUARY 29, 2014
Speaking of salary, as we were in that last post: It’s annoying as hell to be asked to give your salary history when applying for a new job, and it’s no secret that employers use that information to figure out what salary you’re likely to accept from them – which puts candidates in an unfair position and raises obvious worries about leaving money on the table. salary
Ask A Manager
APRIL 6, 2017
A reader writes: I wondered if readers could share stories about successfully refusing to share their salary history. I had to give salary history about three different ways for my new job–I tried to demur but there was really no way around it. In fact, New York City is expected to make it illegal to ask for salary history very soon (and Massachusetts banned it last year, and California is considering legislation to do the same).
Ask A Manager
SEPTEMBER 11, 2019
Online application illegally asking for salary history. I’m currently completing an online application for an organization in Washington state, where in July it became illegal to ask applicants what their previous salary was. It’s still asking for previous salary, despite the state law that now prohibits it, and the form requires the field be filled in before the application can be submitted.” It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go….
Ask A Manager
AUGUST 8, 2016
to ban asking about salary history. The step is a victory for job seekers, who have long been put at a disadvantage by employers who base salary offers on past earnings, which has meant that people who have been making below-market wages are more likely to continue to be underpaid. salaryMassachusetts has made it illegal for employers to ask job candidates what they’ve earned in the past.
Ask A Manager
FEBRUARY 6, 2013
A reader writes: I am applying for a position with a nonprofit that has requested me to include my salary history along with my resume and cover letter (emailed to a “jobs@company.org” mailbox). Your salary history is no one’s business but yours. What matters is what you’d bring to them and what a fair salary for that would be. So it’s BS, and it’s BS that’s designed to give them the upper hand in salary negotiations.
Ask A Manager
FEBRUARY 13, 2014
Advice for employers who want job candidates’ salary history. Her editor sent her my article on how job seekers can avoid giving out their salary history, and suggested that Suzanne write an article telling hiring managers how to get candidates to give up their salary histories. A few miscellaneous things – 1. I love this article from Suzanne Lucas (of evilhrlady.org ).
Ask A Manager
SEPTEMBER 28, 2012
A reader writes: I’ve been wondering about whether or not it’s ever okay to exaggerate your past salary. My current salary is significantly lower than what someone in a for-profit company would be making for the same responsibilities. My friends in the past have bumped up their salaries to get a higher pay in their next job, and they are encouraging me to do the same. Don’t lie about your salary. salary
Ask A Manager
JANUARY 10, 2014
How to factor overtime pay into salary history. My current salary is around $42,000 with overtime. When I go into negotiating my salary for my next job, what would be the best way to approach this discrepancy in my salary? Well, ideally you wouldn’t be talking about your salary history at all, since it’s no one’s business but yours. In that case, you might be better off saying, “My salary is $42,000, plus overtime pay.”).
Jennifer Anthony
APRIL 13, 2010
→ What to Do When Asked About Your Previous Salary Posted on April 13, 2010 by Jennifer Anthony By Jennifer Anthony Score! You meet with the boss, and all goes favorably until you are asked the dreaded question, “Tell me about your salary history.”
Professional Resume Services
FEBRUARY 3, 2014
One of the uncomfortable parts of a job search is discussion of salary. Most of us don’t really like negotiations over salary and fear that putting our current wage on paper might doom us to repeat it. Employers have various reasons for requesting salary information.
Evil HR Lady
AUGUST 5, 2016
That’s right–those salary history questions in MA will be illegal starting in January 2018. Basing current salary on a previous salary is a pretty dumb and lazy thing to do.
The Undercover Recruiter
JUNE 8, 2015
In general, you should NOT include salary information on your resume. Sometimes your prospective employers may ask for your salary requirements or salary history, but unless there is a penalty for omission, such as your resume will be rejected, do not include the information.
Resume to Referral
NOVEMBER 16, 2010
“When a job posting asks for salary info, what do you recommend?” Salary history or target salary should be included in a cover letter. Here’s a little background on why the company is asking in the first place … FOR PRESCREENING PURPOSES. That’s it! Place the details within the bottom third of the cover letter
Evil HR Lady
MAY 1, 2017
“Employers can legally pay women less than men for the same work based on differences in the workers’ previous salaries, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday,” says the Associated Press. “Employers can pay women less than men based on salary histories, 9th Circuit rules,” says the ABA Law Journal. It ruled that you could use a previous salary to determine current salary.
Ask A Manager
JUNE 20, 2012
News & World Report today, I talk about 10 things that don’t belong on your resume, including your salary history, your photo, an objective, and other such odoriferous things. What you don’t include on your resume can be as important as what you do include. Over at U.S. You can read it here. resumes
Ask A Manager
APRIL 24, 2019
If you’re having trouble sorting the spreadsheet of people’s salary data : Your link may have defaulted to a /htmlview view. what’s wrong with “do what you love,” how employers can get your salary history, and more if you’re having trouble sorting the salary spreadsheet… was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. salary
Career Solvers
NOVEMBER 17, 2011
Salary. Including salary information on your resume generally works against you. When included, a hiring manager may use this information to benchmark whether or not the candidate falls within the salary range of their open position.
Professional Resume Services
JUNE 13, 2012
You can also use this paragraph to give the employer information that they asked for in their ad that would typically not go on a resume such as salary history and expectations.
Life@work
DECEMBER 2, 2010
Whether you want some quick advice on how to do well in a phone interview, are wondering how to answer questions about your salary history, or want to know the benefits of creating an online portfolio, Career Digital has you covered.
Executive Career Brand
JANUARY 25, 2016
They don’t understand that today’s resume is a marketing document, designed for the digital age – not a career history merely outlining job responsibilities, with a few achievements thrown in. Salary history.
Ask A Manager
DECEMBER 1, 2014
Maybe you’ve considered inflating your salary history to see if you can negotiate a higher salary offer from a new employer. Thinking about padding your resume or exaggerating your experience in a job interview? Stop right there. Lying during a hiring process can destroy your chances of ever being hired with that employer – and it’s easier to be caught than you might think. At U.S.
Ask A Manager
OCTOBER 16, 2017
stop putting your salary history on your resume here’s the right way to format your resume was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. The hardest part of writing an effective resume is figuring out the content – how to talk about your achievements in ways that tie to what an employer is looking for. But people also do an awful lot of agonizing about the smaller details of a resume – things like format, length, and even font choices.
Ask A Manager
DECEMBER 9, 2019
At my first phone interview, they told me the salary range — about 30%-50% above what I’m paid now. I knew my salary at my current company was low, and so I was very excited to talk to a company that wasn’t asking my current salary. Today, they asked for my “current compensation and bonus payout history. My pay has gone up based on a percentage of my (low) salary, even as I’ve taken on more responsibility. happy endings salary
Competitive Resumes
JANUARY 12, 2016
This show is packed with practical and powerful advice to help women to level the salary playing field. Lydia is the Senior Director of Marketing for Payscale and salary negotiation columnist for Money.com. Women should not offer salary history.
Ask A Manager
MARCH 26, 2019
You may also like: my male coworker makes more money than I do update: my male coworker makes more money than I do the first state has made it illegal to ask about salary history what to do if you’re being paid less than a male coworker was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. law + order outside salaryIf you’re a woman who suspects you’re being paid less than male coworkers for the same work, you don’t need to just stew quietly.
Ask A Manager
JANUARY 22, 2018
stop putting your salary history on your resume why are contractors treated like second-class citizens, boss enters without knocking, and more handling the government shutdown: an open thread for federal employees and contractors was originally published by Alison Green on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: I’m a longtime lurker. I’m hoping you would be willing to host an open thread for federal employees and federal contractors on handling the government shutdown.
Resume Bear
AUGUST 9, 2012
Are you prepared for the salary talk? Generally the salary conversation is saved for the tail end of the interview process. or will ask for a salary history. Remember, your compensation comprises much more than just the salary amount.
Competitive Resumes
JANUARY 12, 2016
This show is packed with practical and powerful advice to help women to level the salary playing field. Lydia is the Senior Director of Marketing for Payscale and salary negotiation columnist for Money.com. Women should not offer salary history.
Ask A Manager
JANUARY 15, 2014
of the population, you love getting a job offer but hate negotiating salary. But salary negotiation doesn’t have to be so tricky. News & World Report today, I talk about eight mistakes to avoid, which will make you significantly better off than most salary negotiators — including letting the employer base their offer on your past salary history, not verifying your research, and more. salary Unless you’re different than 99.3%
Careers Done Write
FEBRUARY 11, 2011
Now that you have revised my résumé, I am finally getting interviews after being unemployed since 2009, but I am wondering what to say when Human Resources asks about my salary. Regarding your previous salary history, it is best to be up front. Dear Deb, Q.
Ask A Manager
JUNE 27, 2013
A reader writes: How does a company go about verifying your self-reported salary history for a background check? On it, there is a large portion dedicated to salary history. On the form, where it asks for salary history, it also asks if they can contact the employer. So how exactly are they going to verify my salary then? My second problem is, I actually don’t remember exact salary information for my past positions. references salary
Penelope Trunk
SEPTEMBER 1, 2015
But surely hormone therapy doesn’t seem appropriate merely for salary negotations. If someone says, “Let’s revisit your salary in three months.” The most important script for women is probably the one that avoids having to give salary history.
68 
Let's personalize your content