When is it appropriate for hiring manager to disclose salary? (applying, interview)

[SouthBound47]

I've found alot of variance in applying and getting offers from different companies. It seems that when I am applying out of state that they disclose the salary before I go over, but when I am applying locally, it's usually at the point of hiring.

I personally think that it should be a minor point in the first interview. What I've heard is, "The salary for the position is $xx,xxx, are you still interested?" I think that this is smart because what is the point in continuing the process if the applicant isn't in the range?

I've noticed that the worse paying the job the later they disclose it. I took an interview for a call center just so I could practice a few interview techniques, and they only disclosed the salary when they called to make the offer (which I declined).

So what are your opinions?

[kevinm]

I never heard of a set salary for a job. All compensation is negotiable, although the employer may want to give a hint of what they think the job is worth. It is up to the applicant to sell themselves and give the employer valid reasons why they should pay YOU more. If they won't budge on pay, you can alway barter for extra vacation or better benefits that a more senior staff member may have.

[Mystique13]

Originally Posted by kevinm

I never heard of a set salary for a job. All compensation is negotiable, although the employer may want to give a hint of what they think the job is worth. It is up to the applicant to sell themselves and give the employer valid reasons why they should pay YOU more. If they won't budge on pay, you can always barter for extra vacation or better benefits that a more senior staff member may have.

Very true. However, when they have a set hiring budget, especially in this recession, it will be nearly impossible to bargain. Maybe if you are an Ivy League superstar with C-level experience at only Fortune500 companies, I really don't think you have a much of bargaining leeway. Of course, you have to be a star going to a star company. If you are a star going to Joe Schmo, you don't have much of a chance as they will say you are "overqualified." I think most people should negotiate anyway, even if a little, just to show that the applicant has some worth and dignity.I'm just not optimistic that one can actually get what that person thinks he is worth.