One of the toughest questions you'll get in an interview is how much your previous salary was. The question is the most-dodged, if only because the candidate is afraid of being passed over for being too expensive, but also afraid of not maximizing the amount of money they make.
It's a terrible question, and yet, if it's asked, you have to answer it. I know that advice books tell you that you can duck the question, but the truth is if you duck the question, the recruiter/hiring manager will either repeat it or think you're playing games.
So what do you do? You don't put yourself in a position where the question is appropriate. The Executive Update covers this question when it comes to online applications. They reference AsktheHeadhunter, which was the first recruiting site I ever read.
Nick’s advice, and it’s good advice, is to avoid the application process altogether. Why get caught up in a cattle call and try to make someone else’s application process highlight your unique talents? Instead, do your homework, find out who the hiring manager is, and make your case directly to an authority who has a vested interest and can appreciate what you bring to the job. If you are really willing to work to find the right contact and distinguish yourself from the competition, then you deserve that job
These ridiculous entry pages on career sites that demand you tell them your salary were not written with the candidate in mind. They were written to drag information out of you when you're the weakest, and they play on your fears. If you don't answer or answer too high, you won't get called in. Here's a little secret. You're probably not getting called anyway. Those career sites are black holes, and you should avoid them like the plague. Never send in a resume without speaking with a live person.
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