One of the most uncomfortable questions in a job interview is,”What is your current salary?” Many candidates feel confused, nervous, or unsure about how to answer it correctly. Sharing the wrong number can affect your future salary, reduce your negotiation power, or even cost you a better opportunity. This question is important for recruiters, but it can become a problem for job seekers if they are not prepared. Some people reveal too much, while others give unclear answers that create a bad impression.
In this guide, you will learn the smart and professional way to answer “What is your current salary?” without harming your chances. We will explain why employers ask this question, common mistakes to avoid, sample answers, negotiation tips, and how to confidently discuss your expected salary.
Key takeaways :
- Always be honest, but share your salary smartly and professionally.
- Avoid giving an exact number if it can reduce your negotiation power.
- Research the market salary before the interview.
- Focus on your skills, experience, and value, not just your past pay.
Why interviewer ask “what is your current salary”?
There are some important points by which interviwer asks this question.
To understand your market value
Employers want to know how much other companies are paying you to judge your experience and skills level.
To check budget fit
They ask this to see if your salary matches their budget for the position.
To decide on your salary offer
Your current salary helps them decide what kind of offer they can make you.
To know your career growth
A higher salary often shows career progress and strong performance.
To test your honesty
Recruiters check if you are truthful and transparent.
To measure your expectations
Your answer helps them understand what salary.
To compare with other candidates
They use this information to compare you with other applicants.
To plan a negotiation strategy
It helps them prepare for the level of flexibility they have in salary discussions.
How to Answer “What Is Your Current Salary?”
Some points that help you in your interview while giving an answer to this question.
1. Be Honest but Smart
Be open about your salary, but emphasise your skills and worth.
2. Give a Range Instead of an Exact Number
If you can, give a range to leave space for negotiation.
Example: “I get ₹25,000-₹30,000 per month.”
3. Highlight Your Expectations
Connect your answer to your expected salary.
Example: “Considering my experience, I seek more growth opportunities.”
4. Focus on Market Value
Refer to the market standards.
Example: “My salary is at par with the market standards for this position.”
5. Include Benefits if Any
Please talk about your bonuses, incentives, or benefits if any.
6. Stay Confident and Professional
Answer the question without showing any embarrassment or hesitation.
7. Avoid Giving False Information
Don’t give any false information about your salary, as it may lead to trust issues later on.
8. Redirect to Future Growth
Shift the discussion to your future growth plans.
Example: “I am more interested in learning and growing in this organisation.”
Sample answer
Here are some sample answers for your further help.
1. Honest + Confident Answer
(When you are comfortable sharing your salary)
“Currently, I am earning around ₹35,000 per month. However, I am more focused on finding a role that matches my skills and offers good growth opportunities.”
2. Redirect to Expected Salary
(When you want to shift the focus to future pay)
“My current salary is in line with my previous role and responsibilities. For this position, I am expecting a package that matches my skills and industry standards.”
3. Salary Range Answer
(When you don’t want to give an exact number)
“My current salary is between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per month, depending on incentives and benefits.”
4. Fresher / Low Salary Answer
(For freshers or low-paid candidates)
“As a fresher, my current salary is modest. I am more interested in learning, gaining experience, and growing with the company.”
5. With Benefits Included
(When you receive incentives/bonuses)
“My base salary is ₹40,000 per month, along with performance incentives and other benefits.”
6. Politely Avoiding the Question
(When you prefer not to disclose)
“I would prefer to focus on the value I can bring to this role. I am open to discussing a fair salary based on my skills and experience.”
7. For Experienced Professionals
(Senior-level candidates)
“My current package reflects my experience and responsibilities. For this role, I am looking for a competitive offer aligned with industry standards.”
Avoid Common mistakes while giving the answer
These are some common and avoidable mistakes.
Don’t Lie About Your Salary
This can hurt your trust and reputation.
Don’t Share Too Many Details
Don’t go into too much detail about every bonus, deduction, and personal expense. Keep it simple.
Don’t Sound Nervous or Confused
This will make you seem unprepared and less confident.
Don’t Give a Very Low Figure Without Explanation
If your salary is low, you can explain your learning stage or position.
Don’t Be Rude or Defensive
Answer politely, even if you’re uncomfortable.
Don’t Reject the Question Directly
This will make you seem unprofessional. Redirect politely instead.
Don’t Focus Only on Money
Discuss your skills, development, and responsibilities too.
Don’t Forget Market Research
If you don’t know the market salary, you might accept a low offer.
Don’t Compare With Others
Don’t say, “My friend earns more.” Talk about yourself.
Don’t Rush Your Answer
Take a moment and answer calmly and clearly.
FAQs
1. Do I have to disclose my current salary in an interview?
No, you do not have to. You can deflect the question to your expected salary.
2. Can I avoid answering this question?
Yes, you can. You can answer it in a professional manner without appearing rude.
3. Do I have to disclose my actual salary?
You can give a range of your salary if you feel uncomfortable disclosing your actual salary.
4. What if my current salary is quite low?
You can say that you were in a learning process and now want better growth opportunities.
5. Can I add bonuses and incentives to my salary?
Yes, you can. You should clearly differentiate your actual salary from your bonuses and incentives.
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