Asking someone their salary - social question (meeting, money, husband)

[convextech]

Originally Posted by Clarallel

I think one can get away with asking indirectly. Like, "Oh, are you happy with Walmart? I hear they don't pay much above minimum wage." If you're lucky, you might get a specific answer.

Still not cool.

[katie45]

It's definitely a "nunya" question.

[tassity22]

Originally Posted by convextech

Still not cool.

I agree, I've noticed some people tend to think it's more "okay" to ask someone their salary if they work at a lower paid job, such as a retail clerk. It's still none of their business what that person earns. It's even more obnoxious when they start lecturing the person on getting a better job. In all likelihood the person would love to have a better paying job, but they can't get one at this time.

[tassity22]

Originally Posted by Marlow

On the other hand, I have a friend who likes to make sure everyone knows how much money her husband makes and how expensive the things are that they buy. Equally obnoxious.

We must know the same person.

[reneeh63]

"As much as I need to but not as much as I'd like!"

[StAcKhOuSe]

[Pyewackette]

It has never been ok.

[Marlow]

This thread reminds me of a story some friends used to tell. They'd moved into a new house and invited some people over. Among the guests was a young boy--I don't remember how old, but elementary school. They said he walked in, looked around the living room and asked, "What'd you pay for this place?"

Still makes me laugh.

[galaxyhi]

My father's answer to that question would have been/would be:

"that is between me, my boss, and the IRS".

I stand by his rule.

It can cause a LOT of consternation if you answer it, both ways:

If you make more than someone else, OR if you make less than they do.

[CGab]

NONE OF ANYONE'S BUSINESS. However, I have been asked and all I say is 6 figures. I don't have a problem saying that, but they don't need to know exact!