How to Talk Salary When it's Not Shared in the Job Listing

You’ve found a job listing that seems like a great fit—exciting responsibilities, a solid company, and a promising career path. But one key detail is missing: the salary. Bringing up compensation can feel awkward, especially when you want to make a great impression, but knowing the pay range is crucial in deciding if the role aligns with your needs.

With the right approach, you can confidently ask about salary at the right time—whether during the application process, in an interview, or afterward. Here’s how to navigate this tricky conversation.

Why Some Companies Don’t Share Salary Details

While salary transparency is becoming more common, some companies still choose not to disclose pay upfront. Here’s why:

• Flexibility: Some employers prefer to see a candidate’s experience and qualifications before determining an offer.
  
   
• Market Competition: Keeping salary private can prevent competitors from outbidding them or candidates from using the information for leverage.
  
   
• Negotiation Strategy: Some companies want to hear your salary expectations first to gauge what they should offer.
  
   
• Cultural Norms: In industries where discussing salary openly is less common, companies may hesitate to include it in job listings.

Understanding these reasons can help you approach the salary conversation with confidence and professionalism.

When and How to Ask About Salary

Bringing up salary at the right time—and in the right way—can help you get the information you need without making it seem like money is your only priority. Here’s how to approach the discussion at different stages of the hiring process.

During the Application Process

If a job posting doesn’t include salary information, it’s best to wait until you’ve secured an interview before asking. Some applications may ask for your salary expectations—if so, provide a reasonable range based on industry research.

Research the company’s salary practices using resources like Glassdoor or LinkedIn Salary Insights before applying.

During the Interview

The first interview is often the best time to ask about salary. If the recruiter or hiring manager doesn’t bring it up, you can introduce the topic professionally:

• "Can you share the compensation range for this role?”
  
   
• “What’s the expected salary range, including benefits or bonuses?”

This keeps the conversation straightforward and professional while giving you clarity on expectations. If the salary doesn’t meet your expectations, it’s okay to politely remove yourself from consideration.

After the Interview

If salary wasn’t discussed during the interview, the follow-up email is a great time to ask. Here’s a sample email:

Subject: Follow-up on [Position Name] Interview

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

Thank you again for the opportunity to interview for the [Position Name] role. I really enjoyed our conversation and learning more about your team.

As I evaluate this opportunity, I was wondering if you could share the expected salary range for this position. Knowing this detail would help me better assess how this role aligns with my career goals.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

Talking about salary when it’s not included in a job posting can feel tricky, but it’s an important step to ensure the role aligns with your financial needs. Remember, salary discussions are part of the hiring process, not something to shy away from. By approaching the conversation strategically, you’ll gain the information you need while demonstrating confidence and professionalism.