01

[NAME], the client has not given me a hard and fast salary range. They have assured me they will make an attractive offer to secure the right candidate. What are you currently earning?

02

[NAME], the client hasn’t given me a salary range. They depend on me to show them what these people are currently earning. When I present your background, I share with them your basic salary and total package, and at that point I tell them not to set up an interview if your earnings are out of their comfort zone. Does that sound fair? Ok, so walk me through your current total package.

03

I don’t actually know. My clients determine what they will pay someone based on their current earnings, and then how well you do in the interview. Generally I see offers of between 5 to 10% over and above what you’re earning, but we can’t really determine what they will pay until we see you perform on an interview. Does that make sense?

04

“The company is targeting X-Y range (make this below the actual high end of the range) depending on experience, and there's room for the right person. Does that align with what you're targeting to make a move?”

Why it works...

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This provides transparency while keeping room to negotiate and qualify their expectations.

05

“Let’s make sure it’s even a match first—I’d hate for you to pass on something that could be a great step just based on an incomplete number. That said, there is a strong package attached. Let me give you a quick rundown of the role and what makes it compelling.”

Why it works:

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This defers the pay question without ignoring it, positions you as strategic, and gets them curious about the opportunity.