WHEN AN INTERVIEWER ASKS YOU FOR YOUR CURRENT SALARY.
When an interviewer asks you for your current salary.

When an interviewer asks about your current salary, you have the choice to either share that information or keep it private. It is important to understand that some employers may use your current salary as a benchmark when deciding what offer to make. If you are not comfortable disclosing your current salary, there are several professional ways to handle the question.
1. Politely Decline to Share Your Current Salary
If you prefer not to disclose your salary, you can respond with a statement such as, “I’d prefer not to share my current salary, but I am happy to discuss my expectations for this role.” This keeps the conversation focused on the position at hand rather than your previous compensation.
2. Offer a Salary Range
If you feel comfortable sharing some information, consider providing a broad range rather than an exact number. For example, you could say, “My current salary falls within the range of $X to $Y.” This approach allows room for negotiation and helps you avoid being locked into a specific figure.
3. Shift the Focus to the Role
Another effective strategy is to focus on your enthusiasm for the role and your qualifications. You might say, “I am very interested in this opportunity and believe my experience and skills are a strong match for the role. I am looking for a compensation package that reflects both the responsibilities of the position and my background.”
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to disclose your current salary is a personal choice. Choose the option that makes you feel the most confident and comfortable. Regardless of your choice, be prepared to talk about your salary expectations for the new role. Take time to research the market rate for similar positions, factoring in your experience, skills, and the industry standard.
By staying professional and keeping the focus on your value and suitability for the role, you can navigate salary discussions with confidence and clarity.