I was systematically asked this question (in Europe), and I typically answer openly.
I also answer openly about the salary gap I am expecting to consider a position in a new company and the criteria I will use to compare the offer of the company and my current salary. I would expect a higher salary if the cost of living is higher, and if my new job is in some way more demanding.
I also mention relevant average salaries I will use as a reference in the discussion, and good reasons why I may think my current salary is undervalued (in big companies, there may be general salary freezes depending on the situation).
So my advice: answer the question, and provide at this time other relevant elements.
One of the most salient features of our Tech Hiring culture is that there is so much bullshit. Everyone knows this. Each of us contributes his share. But we tend to take the situation for granted.
It sounds good to be "open", but would you suggest the same strategy to a female colleague who is currently paid 20% less than she should be?
If not, do you think a good company should ask this question?
In any big human organization, the salary is dependent on skills and engagement for sure, but it is also dependent on the capacity to negotiate, promote ones work and also network.
There are a few exceptions on the jobs job output can be objectively measured, such as salesmen, but those jobs are the minority.
I am afraid a shy person who got a bad salary in his/her previous company will likely continue the trend in his/her next job, starting from the interview and up to the raise and promotion process inside the company.
I am not sure the question you do not like changes the problem significantly.
One of the most salient features of our Tech Hiring culture is that there is so much bullshit. Everyone knows this. Each of us contributes his share. But we tend to take the situation for granted.
Being cynical is one option, but I think there is at least some margin to self correct. I will try to propose a strategy for shy people in my next article
I did not intend to be cynical, but to suggest the problem is deeper than just the very question you highlight. Shy people may even prefer to have a salary on the low range.
One of the most salient features of our Tech Hiring culture is that there is so much bullshit. Everyone knows this. Each of us contributes his share. But we tend to take the situation for granted.
I was systematically asked this question (in Europe), and I typically answer openly.
I also answer openly about the salary gap I am expecting to consider a position in a new company and the criteria I will use to compare the offer of the company and my current salary. I would expect a higher salary if the cost of living is higher, and if my new job is in some way more demanding.
I also mention relevant average salaries I will use as a reference in the discussion, and good reasons why I may think my current salary is undervalued (in big companies, there may be general salary freezes depending on the situation).
So my advice: answer the question, and provide at this time other relevant elements.
It sounds good to be "open", but would you suggest the same strategy to a female colleague who is currently paid 20% less than she should be?
If not, do you think a good company should ask this question?
In any big human organization, the salary is dependent on skills and engagement for sure, but it is also dependent on the capacity to negotiate, promote ones work and also network.
There are a few exceptions on the jobs job output can be objectively measured, such as salesmen, but those jobs are the minority.
I am afraid a shy person who got a bad salary in his/her previous company will likely continue the trend in his/her next job, starting from the interview and up to the raise and promotion process inside the company.
I am not sure the question you do not like changes the problem significantly.
Being cynical is one option, but I think there is at least some margin to self correct. I will try to propose a strategy for shy people in my next article
I did not intend to be cynical, but to suggest the problem is deeper than just the very question you highlight. Shy people may even prefer to have a salary on the low range.
I understand. The problem is indeed deeper, but you have to start somewhere :)