Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

A good friend of mine has interviewed for a position in IT on 3 occasions. Before beginning this process, she was asked her salary range and she replied that she was making just about X (she upped it a little bit) and was looking for an increase.

After 3 interviews, (of 2-3 hours each), they got back to her asking if she was flexible regarding salary. She is very unhappy, because she feels they wasted her time, as salary was discussed initially. She asked me and my husband what she should do. My husband, feels she shouldn't respond for a day or two and then tell them that she is a little disappointed as she interviewed with the expectation that salary was not an issue and that she is continuing to interview in the discussed salary range and that they should put something together and she will consider it. He, in essence, feels that she should put the ball back in their court, to see how serious they are. I tend to agree. But would love input from anyone with experience with this.

ETA: This is a low six figure position, if that matters.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

not in HR, but I tend to agree with your DH. and esp if she has a job now and isn't desperate, I would respond the way he said she should.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

As another option she could say that and also add, but I'd be willing to trade for flexible work week, work from home, additional vacation, etc.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

She has to decide what number is going to make her say "yes."

Then, she can negotiate with the firm and say: "I have an offer right now for $XYZ, I'd love to work for your company, let me know what you can do."

That will put the ball in their court. A company will ALWAYS try to low-ball.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

Not in HR but a similar situation happened to DH. He was approached from a company that he knows (he did not apply for a position). They told him they were "creating" a position just for him, blah blah blah. It was almost the opportunity of a lifetime. After 5 interviews (yes, 5!!!), they asked for his salary requirement. He told them what he wanted. The guy said "ok". Then 2 weeks later they offered him a job paying less than his current job (of course, they send another guy to tell him that over the phone).

We discussed the situation. He wasted his time. They were so far off from what he wanted, plus it was going to be more hours, etc... that they were no need to go further in discussion.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

I agree with everyone else.

I would put it back in their court and say that I can't leave for either X amount of money --- or if they say they don't have it in their budget trade some $$ for other perks like the flex time or more vacation.

ETA: This has happened to me a few times -- where I've talked salary before the interview and then you get there to find out its less than what you are making --- why waste my time?

Message edited 11/27/2007 1:12:14 PM.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)

I agree with some of the advice here. I agree with your DH. I would not take a lower offer if I had a job.

I think they were budgeted for a certain salary and before getting further approval, they needed to see where you are.

Put it back in their court. You will never make it back if you start low.

Re: Question for HR People (Or anyone who might be able to help)