Is it okay if I lie about my current salary in a job interview?
It can be very tempting to “exaggerate” or “embellish” one’s compensation in hopes of bumping up the salary you receive in a job offer. Research has shown (Vault.com) that as many as one in six job seekers will do just that!
But you shouldn’t according to John Hasnas, Associate Professor of Business Ethics at Georgetown University in Washington, DC. He says,”Even though you don’t work for the person conducting the interview, you’re still obligated to be ethical.”
Think about it….How would you like it if the employer lied to you about compensation? And it is inappropriate to expect a company to make a judgment about you based on false information.
Want more incentive to be honest about your compensation? Chances are that if you “embellish”, “exaggerate” or flat out “lie” about your compensation, you will not get away with it. Almost all employers verify new-hire compensation using W-2 forms or pay stubs and even if there is a slight “embellishment,” your fancy new job offer could be rescinded (make sure your math adds up and is NOTED if you’ve included your bonus or projected raise in the figure you quoted).
How to get more money without bending any ethical rules? You can explain the circumstances that may have reduced your income such as:
- Prolonged pay freezes or pay-cuts that were implemented during slow business times.
- Working for a company that is known for paying below market rate.
- Relocating to a higher cost-of-living area.
And you are therefore looking for a pay adjustment.
Say something along the lines of “I’m looking for career growth and hoping that the additional responsibilities will bring more earning potential.”
Chances are that you will receive a bigger paycheck and enjoy it all the more when it comes with good karma.
Truth, Lies and Salary Negotiations
Connie Dorigan, Founder and Director of Recruiting, sees the food processing industry as the link between good living and good people. She’s the west coast’s most experienced and trusted food processing recruiter. She also provides Executive and Career Coaching and lots of free job search tools. Once you’ve connected with Connie, you’ll always be connected.
© 2018 Connie Dorigan. All rights reserved.
This is a general interest article and does not constitute specific or legal advice.
