What was your last salary inteview question

Brooke · Joined: 07 Oct 2007 Posts: 2

I had a job interview a couple of days ago and Mr Johnson asked me "How do you justify such a substantial salary increase when your last salary was ..."

I remained speechless and didn't say anything at first. I did manage to say that the job I was applying for has a considerable amount of responsibility and I would under more stress etc

But I was thinking if it is ever wise to specify your last salary.

For the future (I didn't get the job, obviously) what do you suggest I should offer as answer to this question?

CareerExpert · Joined: 05 Oct 2007 Posts: 23

First and foremost, do not fear the question! If you have left a certain job, you did it because you need something better, a better paycheck, better opportunities of advancement, higher challenges and so on. Stress on the fact that YOU HAVE MORE TO OFFER, THUS YOU CONSIDER YOU DO DESERVE MORE FOR YOUR SERVICES. It's the simplest way to motivate such a request.
Also, do not fear rejections. Don't go for the first job you have been offered. If they don't agree with your request or at least offer you more than you have gained and other compensations, then feel free to say NO. This is their favorite strategy actually....why should we give you more if your last salary was of....well....BRING THE BEST ARGUMENTS and that's it. NEGOTIATE!!!

[url=http://www.careeradvicecenter.com/career-advice/salary-negotiation-yes-and-no.html]How to negotiate a higher paycheck[/url]