The Truth about Talking Money

So why does everyone want to know how much money you make? Have you ever heard, "what's the least amount you will consider?". LEAST?! Shouldn't they just pay market value? I hear your frustration.
Let me share the Headhunter's perspective.

Personally, I always want to know how much candidates made broken down by salary, bonus, etc. I also want to know when bonuses are paid out and what they expect to receive. What this tells me is the perceived value of the candidate/role within that organization.

Feel like you were underpaid in your last job? Than get certified, take classes, increase your skills. It is not the next employers’ responsibility to help you make huge leaps in your salary. The assumption is that there are skill gaps. Any gaps should be worked through at your current employer.

Feel like you were overpaid or just paid well? It's nice to be rewarded and recognized for our contributions. Don't be shy. It's about how that organization perceived and valued you and your role. There is a lot to be proud but don’t let it get in your way. Recognizing that sometimes high compensation can put you out of the range; be flexible and know your threshold. Understanding that you would be open to hearing about opportunities that paid less is definitely worth sharing.

Companies are living organisms and are constantly evolving. Depending on the industry, philosophy and developmental stage . . . let’s face it – some companies pay better than others. Some have better benefits. Some give us the feeling of making an important contribution to the world. There are lots of variables.

Guess what? I too want to know your minimum. If the job is right, would you take it for $$$$? I need to know when not share an opportunity. It's a delicate line. I don't want to insult someone yet I don't want them to miss out on an opportunity. That's why I ask. It’s not like shopping. The headhunter chooses what opportunities to share with you.

I know that most information will tell you to avoid giving money information. I disagree with that and here's why. Expect that you are talking to a reputable company that appreciates what you bring to the table. If not, are you really interested in working for them? When you are asked the question directly and avoid answering it, it creates an awkwardness that you both feel. Relationships are built on trust. If you're holding back, there is no trust. What people take away from meetings is not the remembrance of what was said but how that person made them feel. You decide if you want awkward or trust. I always chose trust.

As a headhunter, keep in mind that I want to get the most for you that I can. Let's be real . . . it needs to be within market rate based on your skills. And we need to have a relationship built on trust.