Jobseekers, do you have to reveal your current salary? A UK and US perspective

One tricky question that many jobseekers face at interview is this: what is your current salary? Salary isn’t a protected characteristic, such as marital status or religion, so employers are allowed to ask about it. But just because they can ask the question doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to answer it.

In the UK, you are not required to tell the interviewer what your current salary is. Of course you can tell them, but the choice is yours.

In the US, the answer is the same. You don’t have to reveal your current salary. However, it is illegal for employers to ask for your current or past salary in certain US states.

But what if you are asked about your current salary in a job interview? What’s the best way to handle the question? Let’s start with a look at the reasons why you would or wouldn’t reveal your salary.

Why it might be helpful to reveal your current salary

You don’t have to tell an interviewer what your current salary is but there are certain benefits to doing so.

First off, revealing your current salary at the interview stage makes it clear to the employer whether they can afford you. Ideally, you’ll be interested in a salary increase and they’ll be keen to offer you a salary within a range that they feel is suitable for the role. Knowing whether you’re a fit salary-wise at this point will make it clear whether they should take your application further. That clarity can save time and energy for both of you.

The second reason you might reveal your salary is to prove that you’re in the same league as other candidates for the job. It’s a way of proving your worth as a potential employee. However, it’s more important that you prove your suitability for the job through your skills, experience, and education. Promote the value you bring as a future employee over how much you’ll cost the company.

Why you may decide not to reveal your salary

One of the main downsides to revealing your current salary is that it can limit your negotiation power. If you’re underpaid or undervalued by your current employer, revealing your salary may give the impression that you’re open to a low salary offer or not deserving of a higher salary. This can make it difficult to negotiate a fair and competitive compensation package that reflects your skills, experience, and market value.

The second reason to not reveal your current salary is to be assessed on a level footing with other candidates. After all, you’ve been invited to an interview based on your skills, experience, and qualifications, not on how affordable you are.

How to handle the question at an interview

If you are asked about your current salary at an interview, what’s the best way to handle the question? The answer is with professionalism and confidence.
If you’re happy to reveal your salary, then go ahead.

If you don’t want to answer the question, it’s always best to arm yourself with a little research beforehand. Research the average pay range for the job you’ve applied for across the job market in general, within the industry or sector you work in, and for the company that is interviewing you. When asked about your current salary, state in a polite manner that you don’t want to reveal that information, but add that you’ve researched the role and feel that your skills and experience are an excellent fit for both the vacancy and the salary offered.

Remember, you don’t have to reveal your salary, whatever the interviewer tells you. The choice is totally yours to make.

Wrapping it up

When you interview for a job, it’s easy to feel that the hiring manager is in total control and you have to answer every question. However, there are certain questions that the interviewer isn’t allowed to ask and others that you don’t have to answer. One of those questions is your current or past salary. It’s up to you how you answer this question, but the best approach is always to be professional, polite, and confident.

For more help on answering interview questions, read 5 common interview questions and how to handle them.