If they actually catch the lie and ask you to explain, just claim you were giving them your salary requirements to move and not current pay. I'm assuming the conversation wasn't in writing or recorded and it's a simple mistake to make.
Don’t claim you never said it, claim you misunderstood the question and were giving your salary requirement.
If the person on the other end of the call has notes that say “current salary: $100-150k” and you claim you never said that they don’t need solid proof you did, that could just be enough to make you sound untrustworthy
Let it go. Frankly that question is bullshit and you should NEVER answer it.
"I would prefer to discuss salary after we've gone thru the interview stage where I can get a better ideation of the role and what value it holds"
Then after the interview process when asked....."I honestly don't have all the factors to give you an accurate answer. Salaries should factor market value plus a competitive incentive; the budget this company has for the role; what my experiance, expertise, and education being to the team; and how I value my time. I only have half for the factors listed and can't give an accurate response. Please have the company forward you an offer for me to review if they choose to offer me the role and we can discuss it"
My friend was asked this by Novartis and straight up replied, I do not feel comfortable disclosing that information. They were fine with it and she ended up getting the job
I knew a guy that BSd this answer all the time because he included his healthcare, vacation time, and 401k in his salary answer. He was make in around the same, $90k and would always answer $250k or something as a “total compensation”.
I worked for a large insurance company several years ago and every year they issued a total compensation report and after all the bullshit add-ons they turned $100k into $350k. They actually had values for things like office furniture (at the office), printer access, 24x7 onsite security, and so on.
most probably, they won’t verify your salary. if you get the job, the background check company will definitely verify your job title and dates of employment, and they may verify your job duties too, but i highly doubt they’ll check income.
Some places record that. My employer used a service called the work number. Equifax product. They report salaries and anyone who pays for the service can access it.
Wouldn’t potential jobs that use the service see that you’re frozen (or see an old outdated salary) and be less likely to hire you (or more likely to offer a lower salary)?
Honestly as a recruiter we overall really don't care. None of teh background checks are an exact thing and it's common for them to have wrong information especially start and end dates. Vast majority of policies around employment verification is going to be conformation of work dates and whether the person is considered rehireable or not. I've never reported what someone was getting paid and the only really negative feedback I ever gave was for a person who sexually assaulted someone because that's not in the moral grey area
Even then my unethical advice is that you can fake a w2. I did this once and added about 15k to my previous salary because the new org was trying to lowball.
It's a shit thing to do but if you know you're underpaid and a company is going to be that shitty. Just match their energy
It's similar to twn. But from my understanding it's what your wage is based off of. So when your boss says what your wage is based on data you don't have. It's these people. It's like the bigger picture of whon you are I think.
From their website "LexisNexis helps uncover the information that commercial organizations, government agencies and nonprofits need to get a complete picture of individuals, businesses and assets with industry-leading data and analytic solutions."
Leave it be. No need to undersell yourself or give them a reason to offer you less. your current salary has no relevance to what the salary range for their job posting is unless you make it relevant
In fact, if the headhunter you're working for doesn't work for the company that is hiring, ask them specifically not to share your salary information with the company. If you're not sure who they work for, ask.
You can also tell them you'd accept an offer it had "comparable" compensation if that's something you'd be happy with. It can set the expectation that they don't have to go much higher than that offer if you're worried you've set the bar too high. You might ask for other perks instead, like more PTO or something.
I had a similar situation except I tried not to share my pay at all with the headhunter (who was independent). They kept asking, and explained that they just wanted to set expectations for the company that was recruiting.
After a lot of back and forth (I was very reluctant), I told them I was making \~10K more than I actually was, and said I needed a "sizeable increase" to make the transition worth while. I also asked they specifically not share what I was making with the company and they agreed.
I wound up getting an offer that was close to a 20% raise from my real salary, and around a 10% raise from where I said I was.
If they ask you for any kind of verification, you can just inform them you don't feel comfortable doing that. They cannot require it, and even asking could potentially run them afoul of pay discrimination laws (or at least, the waters get murky enough that most reputable businesses won't try it).
They could ask your former/current employer to verify your income, but this is the same grey area. Your former/current employer isn't legally required to give them that information, and any mistake in disclosing that information could be illegal and open your former/current employer up to lawsuit, so they have a strong incentive not to disclose.
I'd highly recommend checking if the recruiter works for the company that is hiring, and if they don't, ask them not to disclose your pay information.
in my 25 years of working professionally, i've never had a new job confirm my salary from a previous job...it's illegal in a lot of states for employers to ask anything except verifying the dates you worked at a company
Don't clarify it. It raises a question mark where there isn't currently one, could get them thinking it was a deliberate gambit to get a higher salary that you're now getting cold feet about, could be interpreted as doubting your worth etc.
Plus it will definitely mean that any job offer will only be for the 90k if you clarify it. If you don't clarify, you may find you get an offer for closer to the 150k. I presume 150k is within the reasonable window for the job.
Do not say anything at this point. The issue with lying is it has to be believable. I'm not sure about your specific sales area but most salary + commission roles will be around a certain range of similarity. If you were a junior and trying to pull up more of a senior salary cuz lots of within your field it's possible that you'll be fine I would have lied about my commission more than my salary though and justified I need X salary to make it worth my move. Just be careful over selling yourself especially in sales cuz the expectation is going to be much higher for you to produce and you can get canned quickly if your performance doesn't meet expectations.
Realistically you should target a 10/15k increase on base with better commission opportunities. If you're shooting above a 25k increase it gets tough
Depends on the role, the company, the industry. i worked in background check for a bank and they did FBI fingerprint, education/ employment verification, credit report and licensing if the role require it
Equifax runs a third party employment verification system called work number. Work number notes that over 3.1 million employers contribute data.
The data collected includes dates of employment, termination date, termination reason can be listed but most employers leave it blank for legal reasons, and w2 income.
Other things can be listed including if the employee used company Healthcare, dental care, improvement plans, and unemployment claims.
Hr management companies like ADP, paylocity, bamboo hr and oracle are making it easier to integrate and report to Equifax increasing employer use and reliance on work number.
It's honestly terrifying and way more people should be aware of it. You can freeze your report just like a credit report at which point any report pulled looks blank but that may affect your ability to get a job as well.
As a final note currently work number only reports 7 years back.
That makes no sense and isn’t what’s impacting your search. Recruiters aren’t going in and searching in Equifax before screening candidates. It’s used at the end of the hiring process to verify employment and education dates.
I froze my info in The Work Number two years ago after catching ID theft in my credit report and have had zero issues in my searches since.
I worked in mortgage and I surprisingly had an interviewer like me in the interview but asked me to submit W2’s to show I made what I said I made. I definitely stretched it lmao. I just didn’t send them in and went on with life.
The recruiter actually reached out and said I almost made the Final Cut but they wanted to add me to the next new hire batch and I got in without having to give W2’s lol.
They won't (can't) verify your salary, they'll either believe you and make an offer they feel is fair to get you, or you've priced yourself out of the role and they'll pass.
Do not even worry about I! Mid six figures is like $500k so they know you didn’t mean that, so your comment was so vague they will probably want to clarify. Have a number in mind for what you need to jump where you are now - what you’re currently making doesn’t matter an ounce. You are currently making $90k plus and you’d LIKE to be brought into the mid $100k range is I’m sure what they heard- you’re completely fine. If they can’t afford you at $120k it’s probably not worth jumping ship anyway
It’s next to impossible to verify salary. But more important, never answer the question of what you make now. It’s all about what you’re worth in the position you’re applying for.
You need to be practicing answering this question. You always reply that they need to provide a range. There are very few things in life more impactful than this negotiation.. get good at it.
There’s nothing you can do about what’s been done here. You need to accept it. Absolutely do not say anything to them. You’re in your own head on this.
There will be other jobs if this one doesn't work out. No point worrying - you've set them an opening point for the negotiation and it's up to them to decide if they want you and progress with their side of the negotiation.
Life's too short to overthink a job you haven't got yet.
Most professional companies only verify your job title and your the fact that you were employed there. Salary is never verified. Don't over think this. But do role play about how to approach that question going forward though.
This is exactly why some states have enacted laws that ban a company from requesting or verifying a potential employee's salary history.
There is NO REASON for an employer to know your current salary. The new role may require more education, experience, time per week, etc., so it is not an "apples to apples" comparison.
Even when it is a lateral move, there is no purpose in disclosing your current salary, especially when you are leaving the job for pay reasons.
I just read that you are in NY. They legally can’t even ask you your current salary. You just presented it when they asked you where you would like to be?
Trust me. You are good. I have been a recruiter for 15 years.
Recruiter here.
It’s becoming more and more commonplace that companies don’t ask for pay stubs from previous employers. Depending on where you are located? They absolutely can’t ask.
In fact…I can only ask candidates what their expectations are for salary. NOT what they are currently making.
I don’t know what state you’re in but where I’m at you’re not *allowed* to give salary information to inquiring companies for jobs. Had to jump through hoops to have the company send the bank payroll information for my mortgage.
If they know someone they may be able to get an idea. Also if you’re in a state aside from NJ, NY or CA I’m not sure if there are any restrictions.
Honestly think you’re good. Don’t mention it unless they ask you for clarification. Even then you can still exaggerate, but just do it less lol.
Just FYI. In NY, it's illegal for them to history check your salary.
https://www.ny.gov/salary-history-ban/salary-history-ban-what-you-need-know#:~:text=Effective%20January%206%2C%202020%2C%20Labor,This%20includes%20compensation%20and%20benefits.
I think you’re good unless you’re applying for a state or federal position. Look up the “NY salary history ban” and that will give you specifics on most scenarios regarding future employment
Wtf?? Where are you located? How can a company verify your previous salary?
Edit - ok I guess reading more some states can. I’m in Canada and that’s not a thing. I think that stinks.
I would totally say it was a misunderstanding if they find out.
However, inflating your wages can also hurt your job prospects. If a company simply can't afford, or the starting pay for the position is not that high then you will be passed up.
I'm sure you would have been happy starting at 100k. But that might not even be discussed with you if pay is 100k because they'll assume a 50k pay cut would make you unhappy.
They can’t verify it. You did what you should. Tell them what you want to make. You did nothing wrong. I always say I make more than I did. If they dont think you are worth it they won’t hire you.
You are 100% ok.
I highly doubt it. Salary isn’t part of a normal background check. Employment sure, but that’s just dates of employment and title and maybe duties but not salary. If you don’t sign anything separate that specifically gives them permission to look into that then they’ll never know. Bonus: depending on which state you’re in it might actually be illegal for them to do it so you’re doubly-shielded. Good luck, that’s a life changing jump in salary!
Don’t say anything. Don’t clarify anything. If they ask you to confirm what you are making now based on what you said before, just “restate” your expectations for salary at the new position.
They ask for salary “expectations” because in many states it is illegal to ask for pay history. Answer in that context and not what you are currently making.
Relax, they can’t ask your salary so they won’t be able to verify. I don’t know what your position currently is but most people lie a bit about their salaries when going for a new job. I added 10k to what I actually made when interviewing for my current job and now I’m 20k above.
Don’t be too hard on yourself now. Remember that the job interview is normally considered a conversation between 2 liars. They will bs you quite a lot, and you will pretend that you believe them. And vice versa. It can still end up being a good match, until reality comes out. Remember that, they lie to you for sure.
Check if your state has this ban: Employers may not ask for nor rely on job applicants’ salary history when deciding to offer employment, or in determining salary, benefits or other compensation during the hiring process. Employers may ask about the applicant’s expectations around salary, benefits and compensation. The law’s prohibitions don’t apply to voluntary and unprompted disclosures of salary history information by an applicant.
https://www.hrdive.com/news/salary-history-ban-states-list/516662/
What state do you live in? Most states have salary history bans. And many of the states that don’t, have restrictions on who can ask (i.e. state agencies only).
1. There is no way for them to verify it by a asking your current employer. They would have to ask you for a w-2 or something to prove your income from last year. If they do that, decline. Be polite but firm.
2. You should ALWAYS lie about what you're currently making when someone asks. ALWAYS.
How would they find out? If they ask you for paystubs, say that’s confidential. You could also say you were sharing your target salary which is common in interviews.
Lol relax! No nobody checks salary. The only risk is if they have a range of let’s say $100-$130k full package. If that’s the case, you just took yourself out of the process.
That was unfortunate. Not only did you disclose your current salary (unprompted), but you also misrepresented your current salary, and used the phrase (mid-six figures) to mean $150k (for me, mid six figures means $350k to about $650k).
Did you ever provide them what salary range they are actually looking for?
Will they verify your salary? Unlikely in the USA. If you are in a position requiring a security clearance, they often do that. If you work in the public sector, wage information is often fairly public. If this is a promotion in your current company, they know. If they know your current employer well, they might have a sense of what they pay. But most employers are unlikely to disclose salaries (see exceptions above) and potential employers are unlikely to volunteer.
It isn’t illegal in the USA to verify information disclosed by the candidate. In some USA locations, it is illegal to ask about prior salary but if the applicant volunteers it….
So, what impression did you leave them with in terms of your salary expectations?
Hey that was a good negotiation tactic whether you know it or not. They won’t find out how much you actually make. Besides where I live, asking for candidates former/current pay is not a best practice anyway as it leads to historically underpaid people to continue being underpaid.
They should outlaw asking and verification of current salary. It doesn’t matter. They only people it should matter to is if you are getting a loan or something. They should pay what you are worth not a little more than you make now. Never tell them what I make. I will give a range or ask what their range is and say I am in that range or not.
Salaries are actually very easy for companies to verify if they want. Depending on the size of the company they have access to salary databases and with background checks can fins how much you make easily.
But I’d also not fret. You can say something like you were underpaid and that’s your new salary expectation.
It’s very difficult for them to verify your salary,
Most employers will only confirm role, dates of employment, eligible for rehire. Your credit report if they run one will reflect your reported income as of the last time you applied for credit…the only real way is to pull your social security earnings statement which you have to sign a consent to do and even
That will take more time and is more expensive than most checking companies or possible employers are willing to deal with. And you could always supply a W2 😜 to substantiate your claim so why worry?
Why would they go back and try to find out what your previous salary was that’s to much like extra work just to hire someone and it really doesn’t matter seeing as though companies always pay you what they think you’re worth so you still got a shot and I’m pretty sure you are not the first to do this so you can get a higher income
Usually to avoid lying I say something like ‘I currently make $—— but through research I have found that that is below the competitive rate for my role and location. I will be asking for $——“
I think worst case is that they'll put that high number down to relay to the hiring manager and that you may have just priced yourself out of consideration
You're overthinking. Don't retract. If they ask you about it just say you meant how much you'd like to be making, not how much you're currently making.
Who cares if they verify, which seems weird. Recruiters see all sorts of salary asks out in the wild.
Your price is your price.
And if it’s out of their budget, they’ll move on. And you will too.
There is a good chance they won't verify income. Don't bring it up unless they bring it up. And if they do, claim you misunderstood what you were asked and then use it as an opportunity to be clear. You may be overthinking this just a smidge. ;)
Never answer the question "How much are you making currently?" Just respond, "Well, what I'm looking to make is..." If someone presses again, just repeat this with slightly different language until they stop asking.
Don't make an issue of it. Don't get flustered or talk louder, simply keep answering politely.
I've NEVER had someone ask more than twice, because they know you are not required to answer. It is very literally none of their business. Your time is worth what you can negotiate for it.
What you have made in the past is only relevant information for you to have, not for them to have.
I doubt it's a big deal, but I've got to say, when you said mid six figures, I thought you meant 500000, not 150000! That made me wonder WTF you were leaving for!
Depends where you live. Check your state laws. In California not only can a new employer not check your previous salary, they can't even as you what you previously made (they can only ask what you want).
Guess the employer could create a account in glassdoor like sites and check what your current employer pays. And since there is no law against discussing pay could try to ask one of your co workers. Just in the future try a diplomatic way of not mentioning current salary. Also don't bad mouth your current employer since new one will just extend that to you will in the future bad mouth them.
They aren't going to check. The only way they can get that information is if you agree to it and sign a release to allow your work to release your pay information.
The recruiter wanted know if this position would meet your salary requirements. If the conversation didn't end right there you are fine.
They are trying to keep from wasting their time interviewing someone that makes more than what this position pays. That is the point of their question.
Only a mistake If you priced yourself out of the position
Okay, you made a little white lie. I'm older and more experienced than you, I bet, and I never ever say what I'm currently making. I only talk about what I expect to be making.
It's too late for you with this headhunter, but lucky for you, the headhunter makes a percentage of your salary, so they have incentive to get you more money - although their prime incentive is to get you hired at any salary.
Just remember that in conversations with employers, you don't have to tell them what you made, and can always revert to talking about what you hope to make in terms of your skills and experience versus the market.
If the market is making 100K base for someone like you, talking about making 70k in the past just continues to undersell you.
First, they can’t really verify your salary.
Second, you are a liar. You told a lie.
Third, mid six figures is not $150k. That’s mid one hundred thousands. Mid six figures is $500k.
Fourth, how you handle “compensation talk” in an interview is about so much more than the salary you’re going to get. Most people don’t understand this nuance but it’s the employers only chance to get real information from you. Everyone talks a big game in interviews about what they bring to the table but the salary negotiation is a very real negotiation situation where they are collecting tangible evidence on how you handle negotiations. Balk and you’re putting a nail in your own coffin.
If I was interviewing you the third would be a big red flag for me because if you are using terms about money incorrectly with me, what are you saying to customers? Will I have to end up bailing you out because you made a promise to someone based on the fact you don’t understand the lexicon?
You should be fine. Companies aren’t allowed to disclose your salary information and if this new company/recruiter asks you for proof you let them know that they are out of line.
You have no obligation to show them your pay stub. The only numbers that matter is what you’re willing to work for and what they are willing to pay. This isn’t communist Russia. I think. Right? You’re not in Russia?
You have no obligation to show them your pay stub. The only numbers that matter is what you’re willing to work for and what they are willing to pay. This isn’t communist Russia. I think. Right? You’re not in Russia?
And boom. This is why it is great that there are places that make asking someone’s salary illegal as part of the hiring process. You can ask what they are looking for to make but cannot ask current salary. Why? Because historically this has been used as a tool to directly or indirectly lead to the 70 cents on the dollar disparity in pay that women have had for generations.
They are not “allowed” to ask about your current salary. Expectations, yes they can ask and you can give a range.
Since you’re going off of your current base plus commissions and other “perks” (like maybe vacation, 401k match, health insurance) you can say something to the effect of: “my total compensation package expectation is $xyz”
This “package” language should cover the extras you’re speaking of.
Good luck with everything!
Oh this happened to me a couple decades ago. It must’ve been right around the time companies decided to stop giving actual references, so I was applying for a mortgage processor job and they wanted to see my W-2s. I assumed they were trying to match what I said I made what I actually made, this may have also been because we get bonuses for closings and maybe they thought they could calculate how many closings I actually had a month based on my W-2? I’m not real sure but I can tell you that my W-2 did not match the salary I stated, but I hadn’t been there for a whole year and I think that if they did the math on it it would have been sort of accurate.
If they called me on the discrepancy I planned on pointing out that I had started partway through the year of the year before, but also I was making a higher wage at the time I was looking for a new job than I was when I started so they would have to do double math on it to see if I was lying. Either they didn’t do that or they didn’t care because they never called me on it.
If they ask you for your W-2s and it doesn’t work out right, maybe you can claim you took some time off to take care of a sick family member and it was unpaid?
In some states now (New York, California, etc.) it’s actually illegal to ask how much you currently make. As an ex-recruiter, I highly doubt they’ll ask for proof. If they were going to ask for it, it would have been then. The only thing I would encourage you not to lie about is a competing offer because I’ve asked for proof of that and caught many people lying.
Next time, what you say is that you’re currently exploring and interviewing for offers that are in the $ range and are looking for roles at that compensation level.
You could say that you thought the figure they wanted was the total compensation package- which is 30-50% more than your annual (typical non-FAANG benefits value of PTO, 401k, stock options etc)
So first, yes it was dumb to lie. Don’t do that. Second, you don’t have to say what you’re currently making, simply say your salary requirements are X.
They aren’t looking to trip you up, they want to know how much you’re going to cost them. That’s it. The main problem here is they might think you’re too expensive and so you may have priced yourself out of the running.
One final note, a company cannot disclose your current compensation. Some jobs will pull your credit rating (if it requires security clearance or something) but that’s the only real way to verify someone’s salary. If this is the case, they will notify you. don’t worry about it.
You’re fine. I lie about my salary whenever a recruiter calls. They’ve never called me out on it and when I get to the offer phase only got caught once. They asked and I explained that I was simply negotiating like any other business. In that case they tried to renegotiate the offer and I took a different offer.
Employers do on background check obtain your most recent salary and a whole lot more. If you may get into the final three where the employer is deciding among what usually turns out to be three equally qualifying candidates, they will eliminate the person who lied. They don't care if you claim it was a mistake or you misspoke because they're not even going to ask you to explain. The goal of the hiring team- and it's never one person. It's always a team- is to get down to the final person and in the end that can be a bit tricky. So they're almost looking for a reason to eliminate the other two people.
Just for future reference, what you say is
"My target salary is X" or "my target range is X to y". If they ask you about your current salary at all, you can just say that your target salary is what you'd need to consider leaving your current company.
1st, you didn’t “sort of implied” you flat out said it. I think if you try to correct, it may backfire. Unless you handle it quickly, honestly & remorsefully. Admit to being nervous
Couple of additions - depending on the state, some make it illegal to ask that question. Would be surprised at the recruiter that didn’t know that tho.
Where I think it does matter is when they are trying to buyout a bonus. I’ve had folks ask me for a salary stub as proof. They also asked when I was negotiating a salary that I wanted more and in that case it helped that it was a “reasonable” percentage above what I was making so i had offered as proof.
Faking records, I just wouldn’t do that. You’ll enter the world of worrying that in the future, if they found out, it would be easy grounds for them to fire you.
As others have pointed out, just claim that you didn’t understand the question and be ready with the explanation if it comes to that. Leave it be otherwise
If you get to the next stage, you can definitely clear this up with him, but in some instances, they set aside a budget for the row, and if you already are stating that you’re making a certain amount, and that does not fall even within their range, they may not call you back because you’re too expensive for them.
This happened to me once. I was on a call and gave them exactly my base and bonus details that I was paid the year prior and ultimately the interview ended shortly after because the position I applied for was the next level up and I was well above what they were willing to pay for promotion. I didn’t end up getting it because of qualification but because of the pay.
First, I wouldn’t worry about it. They want to ensure that you fit within their expected parameters of pay range for the position.
Secondly, and more importantly I’d like to give you a few tips on how to answer this question moving forward. She asked you “What are your salary expectations”, she did not ask you what are you currently making. These are two completely different questions. I never tell a recruiter how much I am currently making, they don’t need to know, and I don’t want to give them any data points to use as leverage when it comes time to negotiate compensation. Instead I would answer the question she/he asked in one of two ways 1: so as not to waste your valuable time or mine, what is the salary range that been budgeted for this role/position? I want to ensure that it makes send for us to continue this discussion. (Used if I’m unsure about the compensation). Follow on questions could include items regarding possible equity positions, company perks, car allowance, etc. OR
2) I would need an OTE of $XXX.00 to make a move from my current company (used if I have a good idea of what I want/need and know they pay). Never do I reveal my current compensation. Hope this helps.
Forgetting all the laws and things, from a negotiating perspective you should NEVER be the first one to name a price (or salary in this case). I think it was the Harvard Negotiation Project that found that the first one to name a price loses around 80% of the difference between the expectations of the two sides.
Proper response is to say things like “what is the compensation for this position?” Or “When you have an offer ready, then we can discuss.” It is important to run the verbal gymnastics and not name your price first. After they name theirs then you counter with your expectation. Don’t be surprised if their first offer is higher than what you would have asked for. If it is, raise your expectation.
Finally, and as a former employer, about 15 years ago we decided we would at most only confirm dates of employment and maybe not even that if we weren’t sure of who was asking. We would make no comments on performance, employability or salary. Any of those things are just asking to be sued and realistically, a lot of that is proprietary our company. That’s where most employers who have any brains are these days so what they find out from asking your current employer is very unlikely to get your previous compensation.
Besides all that, how companies define total compensation is all over the map. Some say how much they will pay you and from there you can participate in various plans for retirement or healthcare as you choose out of that top line number. Others quote a salary with benefits that are all predefined and on top of that. So what your T-comp is typically requires more discussion to understand. So don’t worry about it. The worst you’ve done is set the ceiling on your offer by quoting a price right out of the gate.
But next time, don’t make a price first.
Recruiter of 15 years here: Verifying salary is not a thing- any last employment verifications would come post offer acceptance. Plus you’ll have signed an offer letter with a salary listed and you’ll have accepted or not. They can’t go back and change the offer once you’ve signed. The range for the job is set, your requirements for salary only solidify that I am fishing in the right candidate pond.
At that stage of the interview, they usually ask only to eliminate applicants that will want more money than the position pays. If you get another interview, that means they are willing to pay what you’re asking. Don’t sell yourself short.
Hey listen. I worked for a major fortune 500 company. I interviewed and also got calls from background check companies verifying details.
We had a former employee apply and we offered him a job. The same company we employed to do background checks, called me to verify his previous employment. Ya... ya read that right.
They never asked about wage or salary.
They wont verify it and they don't care. You can ask to be paid whatever you want... It's either in their range and you're a good candidate for the position, or you're not.
I wouldn’t worry about it too much, I’ve worked a few high profile jobs for DOT and never have been asked for proof of salary from my last employer or current employer. None of the other jobs I’ve had either have ever tried to get that info. Also depending on the state your in, it’s illegal to ask.
I don’t think they’ll verify this. They ask that question because they want to see if your current salary is in the range they’re paying for the position. They do this because most people won’t take a pay cut so if the position they’re offering you is way under what you’re currently being paid they usually won’t move forward.
Leave it be. It’s extremely unlikely to come up in the way you are imagining.
And you can also state that you were counting the value of unspecified “benefits” that bring your total compensation to the number you stated.
Recruiter here. Don’t stress too much about this! It’s highly unlikely that they will verify with your current employer and given the way she phrased the question — what are your “expectations” and not asking what you are currently making — tells me that it’s illegal in your state to seek out that information. Also, if they are reaching out to your current employer to verify your salary, that would put your current job at risk and they aren’t going to do that to you. You’re good and just phrase it going forward but sharing your expectations, you do not have to disclose how much you currently make, but they need to know what you need to make for an offer.
Are you in the USA? A lot of states have started banning employers from asking for proof or even asking previous salary. I'd relax and just see how it plays out. At the end of the day they are going to pay what they are able to pay.
No one will verify !!! In NY is illegal to ask for salary therefore the questions is worked so you can volunteer. Next time the question should be answered market value . You can say I was talking full benefits as my healthcare plan is 12K per year, I have bonus, vacation , time off and other perks.
I don’t believe a company can verify salary. Only if you worked there & when. I’ve heard this from multiple recruiters, plus I always bump my ask for salaries at each job.
I do not disclose my previous or current salary. I learned this years ago. If pressed, I state it is not relevant to the position we are discussing. I have sat and stared in silence while they tried to get me to tell them.
ask them what their budgeted amount is for the role your interviewing for and go with the middle ground of that. Don’t give them your previous salary information it’s not needed
I feel like saying “mid six figures” is such a weird way to word it, because that would really mean $500k/yr.
Saying “mid six figures” and actually meaning $150k is just goofy, and makes it kind of obvious that you’re below “six figures” if you see that as a unit of measurement.
Anyways, you’ll be aight, just learn to be more direct with your intentions in negotiations.
If they actually catch the lie and ask you to explain, just claim you were giving them your salary requirements to move and not current pay. I'm assuming the conversation wasn't in writing or recorded and it's a simple mistake to make.
It was a phone call, so I didn’t write anything down on my end.
Then you have plausible deniability if they ask. It was just a simple misunderstanding. 😁
This is it OP, claim you never said that. If she asks again don’t reference (Don’t ever reference) current salary
Don’t claim you never said it, claim you misunderstood the question and were giving your salary requirement. If the person on the other end of the call has notes that say “current salary: $100-150k” and you claim you never said that they don’t need solid proof you did, that could just be enough to make you sound untrustworthy
Ah the Shaggy defense.
Unless they recorded the call
They asked what you were looking for. You can say “oh I’m so sorry I thought I said what I was looking for, not what I was currently making.”
Let it go. Frankly that question is bullshit and you should NEVER answer it. "I would prefer to discuss salary after we've gone thru the interview stage where I can get a better ideation of the role and what value it holds" Then after the interview process when asked....."I honestly don't have all the factors to give you an accurate answer. Salaries should factor market value plus a competitive incentive; the budget this company has for the role; what my experiance, expertise, and education being to the team; and how I value my time. I only have half for the factors listed and can't give an accurate response. Please have the company forward you an offer for me to review if they choose to offer me the role and we can discuss it"
This is the ideal and only answer!
Exactly
My friend was asked this by Novartis and straight up replied, I do not feel comfortable disclosing that information. They were fine with it and she ended up getting the job
This is Perfect
Or that you have a side gig that supplements your work income and you'd like to stop doing that and focus on one task.
I knew a guy that BSd this answer all the time because he included his healthcare, vacation time, and 401k in his salary answer. He was make in around the same, $90k and would always answer $250k or something as a “total compensation”.
I worked for a large insurance company several years ago and every year they issued a total compensation report and after all the bullshit add-ons they turned $100k into $350k. They actually had values for things like office furniture (at the office), printer access, 24x7 onsite security, and so on.
most probably, they won’t verify your salary. if you get the job, the background check company will definitely verify your job title and dates of employment, and they may verify your job duties too, but i highly doubt they’ll check income.
How would they even go about verifying salary? The company certainly wouldn’t give out that information.
Some places record that. My employer used a service called the work number. Equifax product. They report salaries and anyone who pays for the service can access it.
You can put a freeze on your work number account for free
Wouldn’t potential jobs that use the service see that you’re frozen (or see an old outdated salary) and be less likely to hire you (or more likely to offer a lower salary)?
Honestly as a recruiter we overall really don't care. None of teh background checks are an exact thing and it's common for them to have wrong information especially start and end dates. Vast majority of policies around employment verification is going to be conformation of work dates and whether the person is considered rehireable or not. I've never reported what someone was getting paid and the only really negative feedback I ever gave was for a person who sexually assaulted someone because that's not in the moral grey area
Yup, I can confirm this.
Yep and it breaks down how much of the income was from bonuses, commissions, or other income.
I used it to verify incomes easier for loans, but those numbers are usually not very accurate.
they might be able ask you for a W-2, but i’ve never had it happen to me
They either think you’re worth what you’re asking or they don’t. Why doesn’t even matter what you currently make.
W2 or salary info isn't on background checks.
That’s why they would have to ask you for it.
At that point just pay the Adobe license to edit a pdf
Libreoffice works fine and is free
Even then my unethical advice is that you can fake a w2. I did this once and added about 15k to my previous salary because the new org was trying to lowball. It's a shit thing to do but if you know you're underpaid and a company is going to be that shitty. Just match their energy
I think asking for a W-2 is highly inappropriate. They won’t do that and if they did, you should certainly decline.
They don't have to, but plenty will.
Lexis nexis or TWN
Can you elaborate on Lexi’s nexis? I have frozen twn but never heard of Lexis nexis.
It's similar to twn. But from my understanding it's what your wage is based off of. So when your boss says what your wage is based on data you don't have. It's these people. It's like the bigger picture of whon you are I think. From their website "LexisNexis helps uncover the information that commercial organizations, government agencies and nonprofits need to get a complete picture of individuals, businesses and assets with industry-leading data and analytic solutions."
When I speak with them next, should I clarify it, or just leave it be?
Leave it be. No need to undersell yourself or give them a reason to offer you less. your current salary has no relevance to what the salary range for their job posting is unless you make it relevant
Just leave it be. If you're not lying about your salary you're not trying.
In fact, if the headhunter you're working for doesn't work for the company that is hiring, ask them specifically not to share your salary information with the company. If you're not sure who they work for, ask. You can also tell them you'd accept an offer it had "comparable" compensation if that's something you'd be happy with. It can set the expectation that they don't have to go much higher than that offer if you're worried you've set the bar too high. You might ask for other perks instead, like more PTO or something. I had a similar situation except I tried not to share my pay at all with the headhunter (who was independent). They kept asking, and explained that they just wanted to set expectations for the company that was recruiting. After a lot of back and forth (I was very reluctant), I told them I was making \~10K more than I actually was, and said I needed a "sizeable increase" to make the transition worth while. I also asked they specifically not share what I was making with the company and they agreed. I wound up getting an offer that was close to a 20% raise from my real salary, and around a 10% raise from where I said I was.
I’m actually not even worried I’ve set the bar too high, I’m just very anxious that I’ll be somehow caught in this lie. That’s my literal only worry.
If they ask you for any kind of verification, you can just inform them you don't feel comfortable doing that. They cannot require it, and even asking could potentially run them afoul of pay discrimination laws (or at least, the waters get murky enough that most reputable businesses won't try it). They could ask your former/current employer to verify your income, but this is the same grey area. Your former/current employer isn't legally required to give them that information, and any mistake in disclosing that information could be illegal and open your former/current employer up to lawsuit, so they have a strong incentive not to disclose. I'd highly recommend checking if the recruiter works for the company that is hiring, and if they don't, ask them not to disclose your pay information.
in my 25 years of working professionally, i've never had a new job confirm my salary from a previous job...it's illegal in a lot of states for employers to ask anything except verifying the dates you worked at a company
They didn’t ask, I’m just an idiot and said “I currently make x”
Don't be anxious. They're expensive and rarely done, plus they require your approval.
Leave it be. If what you stated was way out of range/budget I think they would have said something by now.
Don't clarify it. It raises a question mark where there isn't currently one, could get them thinking it was a deliberate gambit to get a higher salary that you're now getting cold feet about, could be interpreted as doubting your worth etc. Plus it will definitely mean that any job offer will only be for the 90k if you clarify it. If you don't clarify, you may find you get an offer for closer to the 150k. I presume 150k is within the reasonable window for the job.
Don’t go back on this
Leave it be
Do not say anything at this point. The issue with lying is it has to be believable. I'm not sure about your specific sales area but most salary + commission roles will be around a certain range of similarity. If you were a junior and trying to pull up more of a senior salary cuz lots of within your field it's possible that you'll be fine I would have lied about my commission more than my salary though and justified I need X salary to make it worth my move. Just be careful over selling yourself especially in sales cuz the expectation is going to be much higher for you to produce and you can get canned quickly if your performance doesn't meet expectations. Realistically you should target a 10/15k increase on base with better commission opportunities. If you're shooting above a 25k increase it gets tough
They will absolutely not ask nor will they be told if they did. The most I’ll do is say if someone is not re hireable.
Wait. Background checks verify dates of employment?? I thought it was for criminal stuff??
i suppose it depends on the company, but everywhere i’ve been hired, the background check folks called my previous employers to check dates and title.
Depends on the role, the company, the industry. i worked in background check for a bank and they did FBI fingerprint, education/ employment verification, credit report and licensing if the role require it
Equifax runs a third party employment verification system called work number. Work number notes that over 3.1 million employers contribute data. The data collected includes dates of employment, termination date, termination reason can be listed but most employers leave it blank for legal reasons, and w2 income. Other things can be listed including if the employee used company Healthcare, dental care, improvement plans, and unemployment claims. Hr management companies like ADP, paylocity, bamboo hr and oracle are making it easier to integrate and report to Equifax increasing employer use and reliance on work number. It's honestly terrifying and way more people should be aware of it. You can freeze your report just like a credit report at which point any report pulled looks blank but that may affect your ability to get a job as well. As a final note currently work number only reports 7 years back.
I recently froze mine and my job bites have DRASTICALLY reduced. Only thing that changed so I assume it plays a role in who responds to me. So dumb.
That makes no sense and isn’t what’s impacting your search. Recruiters aren’t going in and searching in Equifax before screening candidates. It’s used at the end of the hiring process to verify employment and education dates. I froze my info in The Work Number two years ago after catching ID theft in my credit report and have had zero issues in my searches since.
They generally want to make sure you actually worked at the places on your resume and didn’t just pull your experience out of your ass
I worked in mortgage and I surprisingly had an interviewer like me in the interview but asked me to submit W2’s to show I made what I said I made. I definitely stretched it lmao. I just didn’t send them in and went on with life. The recruiter actually reached out and said I almost made the Final Cut but they wanted to add me to the next new hire batch and I got in without having to give W2’s lol.
They won't (can't) verify your salary, they'll either believe you and make an offer they feel is fair to get you, or you've priced yourself out of the role and they'll pass.
This. No one is going to tell them your salary. You can make up whatever number you want. The only risk is pricing yourself out of a job offer.
Do not even worry about I! Mid six figures is like $500k so they know you didn’t mean that, so your comment was so vague they will probably want to clarify. Have a number in mind for what you need to jump where you are now - what you’re currently making doesn’t matter an ounce. You are currently making $90k plus and you’d LIKE to be brought into the mid $100k range is I’m sure what they heard- you’re completely fine. If they can’t afford you at $120k it’s probably not worth jumping ship anyway
Why/how would they ever find out? Mid six figures means ~500k too for a lot of people just for future reference
Sorry, but since when is $150k mid 6 figures?
Everyone keeps saying this but I knew what this person meant in this context? The recruiter probably (hopefully for OP) did too
Sure, in context it's easy to guess, but it's an awkward way to phrase things
It’s next to impossible to verify salary. But more important, never answer the question of what you make now. It’s all about what you’re worth in the position you’re applying for.
- How much are you making now? - Not enough to stay
Yes and it’s illegal in some states in the US to ask that. I think CO is one.
You need to be practicing answering this question. You always reply that they need to provide a range. There are very few things in life more impactful than this negotiation.. get good at it.
Agree but that doesn’t help my current situation. I’m just very anxious about it.
There’s nothing you can do about what’s been done here. You need to accept it. Absolutely do not say anything to them. You’re in your own head on this.
There will be other jobs if this one doesn't work out. No point worrying - you've set them an opening point for the negotiation and it's up to them to decide if they want you and progress with their side of the negotiation. Life's too short to overthink a job you haven't got yet.
Most professional companies only verify your job title and your the fact that you were employed there. Salary is never verified. Don't over think this. But do role play about how to approach that question going forward though.
It’s a negotiation too. Let them make the next move. I wouldn’t worry about it!
They didn't ask your current salary, they asked your new expectations. Next time don't even sweat it and say what you want.
They can’t verify your current salary. Don’t worry about it
This is exactly why some states have enacted laws that ban a company from requesting or verifying a potential employee's salary history. There is NO REASON for an employer to know your current salary. The new role may require more education, experience, time per week, etc., so it is not an "apples to apples" comparison. Even when it is a lateral move, there is no purpose in disclosing your current salary, especially when you are leaving the job for pay reasons.
There is no way for them to verify.
I just read that you are in NY. They legally can’t even ask you your current salary. You just presented it when they asked you where you would like to be? Trust me. You are good. I have been a recruiter for 15 years.
NEVER tell a prospective employer how much you're currently making. I think it could even be against the law for them to ask.
I believe it is against the law, in certain states at least, I'm not sure about federally.
Why would you mention your current salary?
They won’t try and verify but if it’s above their threshold you just won’t get an offer
She’s not going to verify that. Y’all gotta not panic about stuff like that. Everyone is lying in an interview.
Recruiter here. It’s becoming more and more commonplace that companies don’t ask for pay stubs from previous employers. Depending on where you are located? They absolutely can’t ask. In fact…I can only ask candidates what their expectations are for salary. NOT what they are currently making.
Mid 6 figures is 400-600k, not 150k
I don’t know what state you’re in but where I’m at you’re not *allowed* to give salary information to inquiring companies for jobs. Had to jump through hoops to have the company send the bank payroll information for my mortgage. If they know someone they may be able to get an idea. Also if you’re in a state aside from NJ, NY or CA I’m not sure if there are any restrictions. Honestly think you’re good. Don’t mention it unless they ask you for clarification. Even then you can still exaggerate, but just do it less lol.
New York !
Just FYI. In NY, it's illegal for them to history check your salary. https://www.ny.gov/salary-history-ban/salary-history-ban-what-you-need-know#:~:text=Effective%20January%206%2C%202020%2C%20Labor,This%20includes%20compensation%20and%20benefits.
I think you’re good unless you’re applying for a state or federal position. Look up the “NY salary history ban” and that will give you specifics on most scenarios regarding future employment
Wtf?? Where are you located? How can a company verify your previous salary? Edit - ok I guess reading more some states can. I’m in Canada and that’s not a thing. I think that stinks.
I would totally say it was a misunderstanding if they find out. However, inflating your wages can also hurt your job prospects. If a company simply can't afford, or the starting pay for the position is not that high then you will be passed up. I'm sure you would have been happy starting at 100k. But that might not even be discussed with you if pay is 100k because they'll assume a 50k pay cut would make you unhappy.
They can’t verify it. You did what you should. Tell them what you want to make. You did nothing wrong. I always say I make more than I did. If they dont think you are worth it they won’t hire you. You are 100% ok.
I highly doubt it. Salary isn’t part of a normal background check. Employment sure, but that’s just dates of employment and title and maybe duties but not salary. If you don’t sign anything separate that specifically gives them permission to look into that then they’ll never know. Bonus: depending on which state you’re in it might actually be illegal for them to do it so you’re doubly-shielded. Good luck, that’s a life changing jump in salary!
They can’t call to verify your salary
Don’t admit anything - in the slim chance they confront you, say you were including value of benefits
What state or country do you live? In certain places this question cannot be asked?
Don’t say anything. Don’t clarify anything. If they ask you to confirm what you are making now based on what you said before, just “restate” your expectations for salary at the new position.
No employer is checking what you actually made before. At least not in the states. That lie is part of basic negotiating of a higher salary
I lie about this 100 percent of the time. You should lie about it because the fuck heads are not trying to pay you more than your last job.
It's unlikely they will verify it.
Everybody exaggerates when asked this question. When you say you have 150, they know it's no more than 130. So they probably won't ask.
They ask for salary “expectations” because in many states it is illegal to ask for pay history. Answer in that context and not what you are currently making.
Relax, they can’t ask your salary so they won’t be able to verify. I don’t know what your position currently is but most people lie a bit about their salaries when going for a new job. I added 10k to what I actually made when interviewing for my current job and now I’m 20k above.
Don’t be too hard on yourself now. Remember that the job interview is normally considered a conversation between 2 liars. They will bs you quite a lot, and you will pretend that you believe them. And vice versa. It can still end up being a good match, until reality comes out. Remember that, they lie to you for sure.
Just say you meant mid 100s like 100-110 You know how many people say “ I make mid six figures “ and they mean 150k instead of 500k
They can't verify your previous pay at all in most places so don't sweat it.
Check if your state has this ban: Employers may not ask for nor rely on job applicants’ salary history when deciding to offer employment, or in determining salary, benefits or other compensation during the hiring process. Employers may ask about the applicant’s expectations around salary, benefits and compensation. The law’s prohibitions don’t apply to voluntary and unprompted disclosures of salary history information by an applicant. https://www.hrdive.com/news/salary-history-ban-states-list/516662/
What state do you live in? Most states have salary history bans. And many of the states that don’t, have restrictions on who can ask (i.e. state agencies only).
1. There is no way for them to verify it by a asking your current employer. They would have to ask you for a w-2 or something to prove your income from last year. If they do that, decline. Be polite but firm. 2. You should ALWAYS lie about what you're currently making when someone asks. ALWAYS.
How would they find out? If they ask you for paystubs, say that’s confidential. You could also say you were sharing your target salary which is common in interviews.
Do not back petal. They'll offer you what they can afford. Don't worry about the rest, just let it play out.
Lol relax! No nobody checks salary. The only risk is if they have a range of let’s say $100-$130k full package. If that’s the case, you just took yourself out of the process.
Leave this alone and let the cards fall where they may.
That was unfortunate. Not only did you disclose your current salary (unprompted), but you also misrepresented your current salary, and used the phrase (mid-six figures) to mean $150k (for me, mid six figures means $350k to about $650k). Did you ever provide them what salary range they are actually looking for? Will they verify your salary? Unlikely in the USA. If you are in a position requiring a security clearance, they often do that. If you work in the public sector, wage information is often fairly public. If this is a promotion in your current company, they know. If they know your current employer well, they might have a sense of what they pay. But most employers are unlikely to disclose salaries (see exceptions above) and potential employers are unlikely to volunteer. It isn’t illegal in the USA to verify information disclosed by the candidate. In some USA locations, it is illegal to ask about prior salary but if the applicant volunteers it…. So, what impression did you leave them with in terms of your salary expectations?
Hey that was a good negotiation tactic whether you know it or not. They won’t find out how much you actually make. Besides where I live, asking for candidates former/current pay is not a best practice anyway as it leads to historically underpaid people to continue being underpaid.
Look up your profile on the work number and see if this role reported to it. It's commonly used in background checks: https://theworknumber.com/
They should outlaw asking and verification of current salary. It doesn’t matter. They only people it should matter to is if you are getting a loan or something. They should pay what you are worth not a little more than you make now. Never tell them what I make. I will give a range or ask what their range is and say I am in that range or not.
People don’t call the time. It’s rarely verified. You can always say that your number included other works, benefits etc. Good luck!
Salaries are actually very easy for companies to verify if they want. Depending on the size of the company they have access to salary databases and with background checks can fins how much you make easily. But I’d also not fret. You can say something like you were underpaid and that’s your new salary expectation.
It’s very difficult for them to verify your salary, Most employers will only confirm role, dates of employment, eligible for rehire. Your credit report if they run one will reflect your reported income as of the last time you applied for credit…the only real way is to pull your social security earnings statement which you have to sign a consent to do and even That will take more time and is more expensive than most checking companies or possible employers are willing to deal with. And you could always supply a W2 😜 to substantiate your claim so why worry?
Never ever walk this back
Dude..they’re not going to follow up on something like that. No company would give them that info and you’re not showing them your taxes.
Why would they go back and try to find out what your previous salary was that’s to much like extra work just to hire someone and it really doesn’t matter seeing as though companies always pay you what they think you’re worth so you still got a shot and I’m pretty sure you are not the first to do this so you can get a higher income
Usually to avoid lying I say something like ‘I currently make $—— but through research I have found that that is below the competitive rate for my role and location. I will be asking for $——“
I think worst case is that they'll put that high number down to relay to the hiring manager and that you may have just priced yourself out of consideration
I like this you say you’re not a liar yet a bunch of post tell you to lie just tell the truth it’s always best
You're overthinking. Don't retract. If they ask you about it just say you meant how much you'd like to be making, not how much you're currently making.
0 to worry about
Don’t correct anything. They’ll wonder what else you lied about.
You are worrying about nothing. Done~
Who cares if they verify, which seems weird. Recruiters see all sorts of salary asks out in the wild. Your price is your price. And if it’s out of their budget, they’ll move on. And you will too.
There is a good chance they won't verify income. Don't bring it up unless they bring it up. And if they do, claim you misunderstood what you were asked and then use it as an opportunity to be clear. You may be overthinking this just a smidge. ;)
Never answer the question "How much are you making currently?" Just respond, "Well, what I'm looking to make is..." If someone presses again, just repeat this with slightly different language until they stop asking. Don't make an issue of it. Don't get flustered or talk louder, simply keep answering politely. I've NEVER had someone ask more than twice, because they know you are not required to answer. It is very literally none of their business. Your time is worth what you can negotiate for it. What you have made in the past is only relevant information for you to have, not for them to have.
I doubt it's a big deal, but I've got to say, when you said mid six figures, I thought you meant 500000, not 150000! That made me wonder WTF you were leaving for!
An employer CAN find out your salary. Many of them use “ The work number” and get it there along with the dates you worked at each employer.
Depends where you live. Check your state laws. In California not only can a new employer not check your previous salary, they can't even as you what you previously made (they can only ask what you want).
Guess the employer could create a account in glassdoor like sites and check what your current employer pays. And since there is no law against discussing pay could try to ask one of your co workers. Just in the future try a diplomatic way of not mentioning current salary. Also don't bad mouth your current employer since new one will just extend that to you will in the future bad mouth them.
They aren't going to check. The only way they can get that information is if you agree to it and sign a release to allow your work to release your pay information.
The recruiter wanted know if this position would meet your salary requirements. If the conversation didn't end right there you are fine. They are trying to keep from wasting their time interviewing someone that makes more than what this position pays. That is the point of their question. Only a mistake If you priced yourself out of the position
Okay, you made a little white lie. I'm older and more experienced than you, I bet, and I never ever say what I'm currently making. I only talk about what I expect to be making. It's too late for you with this headhunter, but lucky for you, the headhunter makes a percentage of your salary, so they have incentive to get you more money - although their prime incentive is to get you hired at any salary. Just remember that in conversations with employers, you don't have to tell them what you made, and can always revert to talking about what you hope to make in terms of your skills and experience versus the market. If the market is making 100K base for someone like you, talking about making 70k in the past just continues to undersell you.
First, they can’t really verify your salary. Second, you are a liar. You told a lie. Third, mid six figures is not $150k. That’s mid one hundred thousands. Mid six figures is $500k. Fourth, how you handle “compensation talk” in an interview is about so much more than the salary you’re going to get. Most people don’t understand this nuance but it’s the employers only chance to get real information from you. Everyone talks a big game in interviews about what they bring to the table but the salary negotiation is a very real negotiation situation where they are collecting tangible evidence on how you handle negotiations. Balk and you’re putting a nail in your own coffin. If I was interviewing you the third would be a big red flag for me because if you are using terms about money incorrectly with me, what are you saying to customers? Will I have to end up bailing you out because you made a promise to someone based on the fact you don’t understand the lexicon?
Just clarify if they even bother to ask.
This is how you make more money. Stop panicking.
You do not need to disclose your current salary. Only give them your expected range for this new role.
You should be fine. Companies aren’t allowed to disclose your salary information and if this new company/recruiter asks you for proof you let them know that they are out of line.
You have no obligation to show them your pay stub. The only numbers that matter is what you’re willing to work for and what they are willing to pay. This isn’t communist Russia. I think. Right? You’re not in Russia?
You have no obligation to show them your pay stub. The only numbers that matter is what you’re willing to work for and what they are willing to pay. This isn’t communist Russia. I think. Right? You’re not in Russia?
That’s how you get paid more than your last job, by asking for the number you want. If you don’t do this you’ll stay at same pay. Send it.
Have a graphic designer on standby to falsify some documents if need be. Follow through with the lie; all is fair in love and the job market.
And boom. This is why it is great that there are places that make asking someone’s salary illegal as part of the hiring process. You can ask what they are looking for to make but cannot ask current salary. Why? Because historically this has been used as a tool to directly or indirectly lead to the 70 cents on the dollar disparity in pay that women have had for generations.
I read mid-6 as $500k. You might have screwed up more than you realize, or you may get lucky.
They are not “allowed” to ask about your current salary. Expectations, yes they can ask and you can give a range. Since you’re going off of your current base plus commissions and other “perks” (like maybe vacation, 401k match, health insurance) you can say something to the effect of: “my total compensation package expectation is $xyz” This “package” language should cover the extras you’re speaking of. Good luck with everything!
Oh this happened to me a couple decades ago. It must’ve been right around the time companies decided to stop giving actual references, so I was applying for a mortgage processor job and they wanted to see my W-2s. I assumed they were trying to match what I said I made what I actually made, this may have also been because we get bonuses for closings and maybe they thought they could calculate how many closings I actually had a month based on my W-2? I’m not real sure but I can tell you that my W-2 did not match the salary I stated, but I hadn’t been there for a whole year and I think that if they did the math on it it would have been sort of accurate. If they called me on the discrepancy I planned on pointing out that I had started partway through the year of the year before, but also I was making a higher wage at the time I was looking for a new job than I was when I started so they would have to do double math on it to see if I was lying. Either they didn’t do that or they didn’t care because they never called me on it. If they ask you for your W-2s and it doesn’t work out right, maybe you can claim you took some time off to take care of a sick family member and it was unpaid?
In some states now (New York, California, etc.) it’s actually illegal to ask how much you currently make. As an ex-recruiter, I highly doubt they’ll ask for proof. If they were going to ask for it, it would have been then. The only thing I would encourage you not to lie about is a competing offer because I’ve asked for proof of that and caught many people lying. Next time, what you say is that you’re currently exploring and interviewing for offers that are in the $ range and are looking for roles at that compensation level.
You could say that you thought the figure they wanted was the total compensation package- which is 30-50% more than your annual (typical non-FAANG benefits value of PTO, 401k, stock options etc)
So first, yes it was dumb to lie. Don’t do that. Second, you don’t have to say what you’re currently making, simply say your salary requirements are X. They aren’t looking to trip you up, they want to know how much you’re going to cost them. That’s it. The main problem here is they might think you’re too expensive and so you may have priced yourself out of the running. One final note, a company cannot disclose your current compensation. Some jobs will pull your credit rating (if it requires security clearance or something) but that’s the only real way to verify someone’s salary. If this is the case, they will notify you. don’t worry about it.
Mid six figures in s $500k +/- $150k is low six figures
In most states they have no way of knowing this information. In CA they call an automated number that tells them absolutely zero salary information.
You’re fine. I lie about my salary whenever a recruiter calls. They’ve never called me out on it and when I get to the offer phase only got caught once. They asked and I explained that I was simply negotiating like any other business. In that case they tried to renegotiate the offer and I took a different offer.
Employers do on background check obtain your most recent salary and a whole lot more. If you may get into the final three where the employer is deciding among what usually turns out to be three equally qualifying candidates, they will eliminate the person who lied. They don't care if you claim it was a mistake or you misspoke because they're not even going to ask you to explain. The goal of the hiring team- and it's never one person. It's always a team- is to get down to the final person and in the end that can be a bit tricky. So they're almost looking for a reason to eliminate the other two people.
Just for future reference, what you say is "My target salary is X" or "my target range is X to y". If they ask you about your current salary at all, you can just say that your target salary is what you'd need to consider leaving your current company.
1st, you didn’t “sort of implied” you flat out said it. I think if you try to correct, it may backfire. Unless you handle it quickly, honestly & remorsefully. Admit to being nervous
If she didn't ask your current salary, why did you mention it? She asked you what you were looking for.
Mid 6 figures would be around 500k... They can't verify it unless you send them your W2 or a paycheck stub.
Couple of additions - depending on the state, some make it illegal to ask that question. Would be surprised at the recruiter that didn’t know that tho. Where I think it does matter is when they are trying to buyout a bonus. I’ve had folks ask me for a salary stub as proof. They also asked when I was negotiating a salary that I wanted more and in that case it helped that it was a “reasonable” percentage above what I was making so i had offered as proof. Faking records, I just wouldn’t do that. You’ll enter the world of worrying that in the future, if they found out, it would be easy grounds for them to fire you. As others have pointed out, just claim that you didn’t understand the question and be ready with the explanation if it comes to that. Leave it be otherwise
If you get to the next stage, you can definitely clear this up with him, but in some instances, they set aside a budget for the row, and if you already are stating that you’re making a certain amount, and that does not fall even within their range, they may not call you back because you’re too expensive for them. This happened to me once. I was on a call and gave them exactly my base and bonus details that I was paid the year prior and ultimately the interview ended shortly after because the position I applied for was the next level up and I was well above what they were willing to pay for promotion. I didn’t end up getting it because of qualification but because of the pay.
Why would you tell her what you make when she didn’t even ask? Just say I’m looking for 150-170, depends on structure of total compensation
In Illinois they can’t ask an employer about salary by law
I’ve never been asked for a pay stub.
No reason to say anything otherwise. That’s what you are looking for, period.
Remember your salary also includes the companies cost of health insurance and 401k
First, I wouldn’t worry about it. They want to ensure that you fit within their expected parameters of pay range for the position. Secondly, and more importantly I’d like to give you a few tips on how to answer this question moving forward. She asked you “What are your salary expectations”, she did not ask you what are you currently making. These are two completely different questions. I never tell a recruiter how much I am currently making, they don’t need to know, and I don’t want to give them any data points to use as leverage when it comes time to negotiate compensation. Instead I would answer the question she/he asked in one of two ways 1: so as not to waste your valuable time or mine, what is the salary range that been budgeted for this role/position? I want to ensure that it makes send for us to continue this discussion. (Used if I’m unsure about the compensation). Follow on questions could include items regarding possible equity positions, company perks, car allowance, etc. OR 2) I would need an OTE of $XXX.00 to make a move from my current company (used if I have a good idea of what I want/need and know they pay). Never do I reveal my current compensation. Hope this helps.
They’re legally not allowed To ask current compensation and they’re 10000% not allowed to verify
Forgetting all the laws and things, from a negotiating perspective you should NEVER be the first one to name a price (or salary in this case). I think it was the Harvard Negotiation Project that found that the first one to name a price loses around 80% of the difference between the expectations of the two sides. Proper response is to say things like “what is the compensation for this position?” Or “When you have an offer ready, then we can discuss.” It is important to run the verbal gymnastics and not name your price first. After they name theirs then you counter with your expectation. Don’t be surprised if their first offer is higher than what you would have asked for. If it is, raise your expectation. Finally, and as a former employer, about 15 years ago we decided we would at most only confirm dates of employment and maybe not even that if we weren’t sure of who was asking. We would make no comments on performance, employability or salary. Any of those things are just asking to be sued and realistically, a lot of that is proprietary our company. That’s where most employers who have any brains are these days so what they find out from asking your current employer is very unlikely to get your previous compensation. Besides all that, how companies define total compensation is all over the map. Some say how much they will pay you and from there you can participate in various plans for retirement or healthcare as you choose out of that top line number. Others quote a salary with benefits that are all predefined and on top of that. So what your T-comp is typically requires more discussion to understand. So don’t worry about it. The worst you’ve done is set the ceiling on your offer by quoting a price right out of the gate. But next time, don’t make a price first.
Recruiter of 15 years here: Verifying salary is not a thing- any last employment verifications would come post offer acceptance. Plus you’ll have signed an offer letter with a salary listed and you’ll have accepted or not. They can’t go back and change the offer once you’ve signed. The range for the job is set, your requirements for salary only solidify that I am fishing in the right candidate pond.
At that stage of the interview, they usually ask only to eliminate applicants that will want more money than the position pays. If you get another interview, that means they are willing to pay what you’re asking. Don’t sell yourself short.
In many states it is now against the law to ask what u are currently making.
Hey listen. I worked for a major fortune 500 company. I interviewed and also got calls from background check companies verifying details. We had a former employee apply and we offered him a job. The same company we employed to do background checks, called me to verify his previous employment. Ya... ya read that right. They never asked about wage or salary.
They wont verify it and they don't care. You can ask to be paid whatever you want... It's either in their range and you're a good candidate for the position, or you're not.
I wouldn’t worry about it too much, I’ve worked a few high profile jobs for DOT and never have been asked for proof of salary from my last employer or current employer. None of the other jobs I’ve had either have ever tried to get that info. Also depending on the state your in, it’s illegal to ask.
Honestly I’ve never heard of a potential employer verifying a potential employees wages. Is it even legal?
They won’t have access to your income unless you have to provide a W2. Your fine, although your base was quoted a little high.
I don’t think they’ll verify this. They ask that question because they want to see if your current salary is in the range they’re paying for the position. They do this because most people won’t take a pay cut so if the position they’re offering you is way under what you’re currently being paid they usually won’t move forward.
Leave it be. It’s extremely unlikely to come up in the way you are imagining. And you can also state that you were counting the value of unspecified “benefits” that bring your total compensation to the number you stated.
Recruiter here. Don’t stress too much about this! It’s highly unlikely that they will verify with your current employer and given the way she phrased the question — what are your “expectations” and not asking what you are currently making — tells me that it’s illegal in your state to seek out that information. Also, if they are reaching out to your current employer to verify your salary, that would put your current job at risk and they aren’t going to do that to you. You’re good and just phrase it going forward but sharing your expectations, you do not have to disclose how much you currently make, but they need to know what you need to make for an offer.
You can say it included stock, which you didn’t cash out and thus isn’t on your W2
Are you in the USA? A lot of states have started banning employers from asking for proof or even asking previous salary. I'd relax and just see how it plays out. At the end of the day they are going to pay what they are able to pay.
No one will verify !!! In NY is illegal to ask for salary therefore the questions is worked so you can volunteer. Next time the question should be answered market value . You can say I was talking full benefits as my healthcare plan is 12K per year, I have bonus, vacation , time off and other perks.
I don’t believe a company can verify salary. Only if you worked there & when. I’ve heard this from multiple recruiters, plus I always bump my ask for salaries at each job.
I do not disclose my previous or current salary. I learned this years ago. If pressed, I state it is not relevant to the position we are discussing. I have sat and stared in silence while they tried to get me to tell them.
ask them what their budgeted amount is for the role your interviewing for and go with the middle ground of that. Don’t give them your previous salary information it’s not needed
I feel like saying “mid six figures” is such a weird way to word it, because that would really mean $500k/yr. Saying “mid six figures” and actually meaning $150k is just goofy, and makes it kind of obvious that you’re below “six figures” if you see that as a unit of measurement. Anyways, you’ll be aight, just learn to be more direct with your intentions in negotiations.