A client recently asked about the protocol when emailing a recruiter or hiring manager who asks for a resume and current salary. I thought this is a question many job seekers encounter at one time or another and so I’m sharing my responses in this blog.
Submitting a resume: The best format to use when responding by email is to attach both the Word and PDF file so you give the person you are emailing the option of which file type they’d prefer to open/look at.
Responding to salary request: When a recruiter or hiring manager asks for a current salary, it’s best to avoid answering the question, waiting as long as possible before offering or providing the information. If they are insistent, offer a range back to them by saying that you are currently exploring or interviewing for opportunities in the “$x00,000 to x00,000 range. If you search my blog for “salary” – you will find some helpful information in the blog posts I’ve written on this topic. The main objective is to avoid discussing salary for as long as possible or until it’s the appropriate time in the job offer stage. The goal being that you get them to love you as the ideal candidate so they’re more focused on making the money work to get you hired vs. screening you out early on based on a dollar amount.
Do you have job search questions? I’m happy to work with you to overcome your job search challenges and help you expedite changing jobs or getting back to work!