A Complete Guide to Perfectly Answering the Current Salary Question in an Interview

Thousands of candidates deal with the ‘current salary’ question, and many feel staggered, which is natural. Indeed, interviewing for a job is challenging, especially when you get a curveball, covered in so many unwanted questions. Like the most common question is, what is your current salary? This question is not only bumpy but downright illegal to ask in a few states while interviewing.

You should always walk-in an interview with full preparation to bounce back the uncomfortable questions.

Asking Salary History Question is illegal!

This matter has been in controversy for long but for a rightful thing. It has become a trend to ask individuals their salary history and then decide their pay salary. Due to this, it was women who have been suffering from the gender gap pay issue. Having less salary at the beginning of your career can limit your confidence and opportunities, which is why many states are stepping forward to get this question banned to protect job seekers' rights.

Is This Uncomfortable Salary History Question Banned In Your State?

It's necessary to find out if that salary history question is banned in your area or not. Here is important information for you to devise a better response. You can visit Salary.com to have a deep insight into this matter. There you could find updated information on this matter. However, according to the report, in August 2020, there were around 17 state-wide and 17 local bans.

Here is a list of states and territories where this salary question is considered illegal:

• Alabama
• Connecticut
• California
• Delaware
• Illinois
• Hawaii
• Maine
• Michigan
• Massachusetts
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• New York
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Puerto Rico
• Vermont
• Washington

However, if you don't find your state in the list above, you can still figure out in your city or country regarding this and be sure before appearing for the interview. For example, Maryland has not imposed a state-wide ban, but Montgomery County has imposed a local ban.

The Best Way To Answer The Salary History Question!

Well, there is no confirm answer whether or not you will face this question. But in case if you face it, you should be prepared for it. If you face this situation, stay calm, and speak wisely.

Here are some ways you can deflect this question neutrally and lightly. Make sure you benefit from the doubt by assuming they are not aware of this question's legality.

You can answer like:

• I’d be more than pleased to talk about my anticipated salary once we get an office in place.
• I’d love to share my desired salary, but first, I’d like to know about the position.
• I’m not allowed to answer this question as my current employee considers it confidential.
• You might encounter such uncomfortable questions while filling your job application. You can fill a brief note with the verbal responses we have shared above. Be sweet, natural, and simple while writing!

So follow all the instructions in the guide to have a good experience.