by Trevor Davide Grant

We know we should never reveal what what our old salary was – it can be negotiation suicide if you do – but how can we avoid giving it away if asked?

It is a bad idea to discuss salary early in the hiring process. However if it comes up, do not get yourself caught in a lie.

Consider the following if you are pressured for your salary history when you aren’t comfortable with it:

1) The compensation you earned in the past is for similar work but the total compensation package is not related to the work and company your going to. Your past salary should not factor into your new job.

2) If the employer insists you mention your previous salary, mention with the total value of your salary package. Also, restate that it is not the same company you will be working for, and so your past salary is not related. There are so many factors including balanced lifestyle, annual vacation, rewarded overtime that also factor in.

3) Be aware before going into the interview what the standard range is for that job, and know where your performance level would be within that range. Most people are not at the top end of the salary range, so unless you are a total star, don’t expect the absolute max unless you can justify it. Your clout will be confirmed by your reference checks it will be obvious if you are not in the highest percentiles.

4) You may had a valid reason in your past for working at a job where the pay wasn’t up to industry standards. No matter what, it does not explain the value you will add to the company in a new job. You should always state your case for earning at least fair market value for the job, and know that if you’re a top performer, that you should be at higher levels.

5) If you divulge your salary, restate that you expect to be paid the standard industry rate for the posting, and explain what you do understand about the industry at that time. Most employers will respect you for standing your ground on the matter. Just remember negotiating is not a hostile situation, so remember to be firm in your stance but respectful in your demeanor.

Do not lie in your interview. The employer has ways to detect what you really earned, either through asking you to produce a pay stub, or asking if they can confirm it with your previous employer. Remember, the value you bring is the value you bring, and that is the bottom line if the employer wants to hire you.

About the Author:
Trevor Davide Grant is a IT manager in the IT field and has extensive experience in salary negotiation. Trevor has worked for global telecom, electric utilities, software development consulting, and a prevalent web 2.0 site. He has learned how to negotiate a salary in the most effective way. Learn great tips on the topic of salary negotiating at www.HowToNegotiateASalary.com.

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Filed under: Business Online

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