Should your salary be on your resume?
One of the most uncomfortable parts of the job search is the discussion about salary. Most of us don’t like salary negotiations and fear that putting our current salary on paper will doom us to repeat it or not get the job we’re looking for. For the most part, you don’t really need to put salary history on your resume. At the same time, if a job posting asks you to include salary history or requirements when applying, they will look for that information when you apply. Skipping that part of the application process may automatically remove you from the application.
Employers have various reasons for requesting wage information, but regardless of those reasons, if they do request it, be sure to include it with your request. They may want to weed out those who expect more than they are willing to offer or find someone who is qualified and willing to accept the least amount of compensation. They certainly want to know that you will follow instructions. You can fulfill a salary history request in several ways:
– attach a salary history to your resume on a separate page
– include it in your cover letter
– use a salary range instead of specific amounts
It goes without saying that your salary history must be accurate and up to date. You’ll be putting your career in jeopardy when they consult with former employers and find out the truth, which is a very real possibility. At the same time, if you think you’ve been underpaid, there’s no reason to avoid saying so. You want to be sure it can be said diplomatically and appropriately to avoid misunderstandings. Make sure you don’t get discouraged if you don’t get the job; There are various reasons these things happen and your salary requirements may not be the reason.
Salary requirements can be handled with statements showing your flexibility and willingness to negotiate the overall compensation package, including benefits. Here, too, a range can be useful as long as it is within reasonable limits. Putting “negotiable” isn’t always the answer employers are looking for, so be sure to be open and honest about your expectations. Tools like a salary calculator help you determine what the range should be for those expectations. Salary may not be on your resume, but it’s definitely at the top of everyone’s priority list, and you should be prepared to discuss it.