Salary Expectations

Does mentioning the words “Salary Expectations” make you cringe?  When a recruiter calls and asks for your current salary and/or what you’re looking for – are you uncomfortable?

No reason to be!  The primary reason recruiters ask for this information is to make sure you are in line with their budget.  You are not giving away sacred information in discussing your earnings and expectations – letting a company know where you are and where you want to be salary wise is and should be an honest and easy conversation.  Think about it, if you are earning $60K and a job only pays $45K – why do we want to waste your time?  Our time is valuable and so is yours.

Ah, but then the words “I’m flexible” come out….Be honest and realistic when it comes to your salary expectations.  When you make a career jump – company and/or next level - your expectation should be ~10%-15% above your current salary.  Be prepared to give your “bottom line” number and TRUST that the company will not low-ball you if you get to an offer stage and present you with a fair offer based on their budget and your experience.

In addition, for those of you that are moving into entertainment from a different industry, do your research on entertainment salaries – all industries are not equal and entertainment happens to pay on a lower end. (…Although, this is shifting given the current “war for talent…”)

So, in a nut shell, don’t worry about or avoid the salary conversation – do your research, be open and honest about your salary history and expectations – trust me, it makes the process more comfortable and seamless.

Comments

[Mark]

What a load of baloney!
Your "advice" does nothing but screw the worker.