When it comes to job interviews and salary negotiations, one common dilemma job seekers face is whether or not to disclose their current salary to a potential company or recruiter. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, understanding the nuances and potential implications can help you make an informed decision. Here are some pros and cons of disclosing your current salary, to help you navigate this aspect of the job search process.

The Case for Disclosing Your Current Salary:
Disclosing your current salary can have certain advantages in specific scenarios. Let’s take a closer look at why you might consider sharing this information:

1) Building Trust and Transparency:
Sharing your current salary demonstrates honesty and openness with potential employers. It establishes a foundation of trust, as you’re willing to provide relevant information to facilitate the hiring process. This can help foster a positive relationship from the start.

2) Streamlining the Recruitment Process:
Disclosing your current salary early on can help both parties assess whether your expectations align. If your current salary is significantly higher or lower than what the potential employer can offer, it can save time and effort for both parties by avoiding mismatches.

The Case for Not Disclosing Your Current Salary:
While there are merits to sharing your current compensation, there are also situations where it might be more advantageous to keep this information confidential. Here’s why you might choose not to disclose:

1) Avoiding Anchoring Effect:
Salary discussions often involve negotiation, and disclosing your current salary might inadvertently anchor your future earnings to that figure. If your current salary is lower than what you could potentially earn in the new position, revealing it could limit your bargaining power.

2) Ensuring a Fair Compensation Package:
By not disclosing your current salary, you allow potential employers to evaluate your worth based on your skills, experience, and the market value of the position. This approach encourages employers to offer a compensation package that reflects your true value, rather than being influenced by your current salary.

According to a survey conducted by PayScale, 63% of job seekers shared their current salary during the interview process. However, a study by Harvard Business Review found that applicants who disclose their salary history may receive lower offers compared to those who don’t.

Deciding whether to disclose your current salary is a personal choice that depends on various factors such as your industry, negotiation skills, and the specific job opportunity. While sharing your salary can foster trust and streamline the recruitment process, keeping it confidential can help ensure a fair compensation package and avoid potential anchoring effects. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages, along with considering the current statistical trends, will empower you to make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals. Remember, it’s essential to approach salary discussions tactfully and confidently to secure the best possible outcome for your professional journey.

By Jaime Weinberg, fishRecruit