Is It Rude to Ask About Salary Before Applying to a LinkedIn Job Posting?

Many job seekers face a common dilemma when they come across a job listing on LinkedIn that does not specify a salary. Should they ask the hiring manager for a salary range before applying? This article explores this question and provides insights into the best approach to take.

Who and Why

I live, work, and recruit in the U.S., and this answer is based on that context. While it might differ in other regions, the core principles remain valid. Posting a job on LinkedIn is an expensive venture, typically reserved for well-established companies.

These companies often have internal recruiters, making it a better practice to approach a recruiter instead. However, it's not rude to inquire about the salary range if the job post on LinkedIn does not mention it. In fact, it can be a smart move to communicate your interest and enthusiasm for the position while asking about compensation.

The Business Perspective

From a business standpoint, people should be paid based on their skills and experience. Sometimes the budget aligns with the value the candidate brings, and sometimes it doesn’t. This is just part of the negotiation process, and it’s important to approach it strategically.

Salary Negotiation Strategy

Being skilled in salary negotiation can be crucial, especially if you are a senior manager or a professional with proven experience. Here’s a strategy I recommend:

"I am sure the compensation will be right if everything else works."

This statement reflects a genuine belief in the fit between you and the job. The emphasis should be on ensuring the job aligns with your career goals and aspirations, with compensation coming in as a secondary issue.

When to Discuss Salary

It's often best to put off discussing salary until later in the interview process. This demonstrates that you are more interested in the role and the organization than just the compensation. If pressed about the salary range, ask:

"Well, what is the ballpark on the position as you see it?"

If the range is not as generous as you hoped, keep interviewing and maintain your enthusiasm. Sometimes, the range is malleable, and the company may be willing to negotiate.

How to Proceed If You Want to Push the Limits

When you are clearly a good fit for the job and the company is highly interested in hiring you, you can initiate a salary conversation:

"You have a budget; I’m going to ask you to pay me the most you can justify for this position given what I bring to it."

Follow up with:

"And if you do that, I can only say yes or no; there won’t be a reason to negotiate further."

This approach has proven effective for many professionals, and it shows that you are serious about the position and willing to negotiate based on your contributions.

The Best Job Experience

One of the most satisfying job experiences I had did not involve much discussion about salary at all. After three interviews, culminating in an hour-long meeting with the CEO, I received an offer letter without any mention of compensation.

The generous offer stemmed from the CEO’s desire to attract me to the company, and the high compensation was a perk. My happiness with the job itself was primary, as the salary was just "gravy."

In conclusion, it’s not rude to ask about salary before applying if the job posting doesn’t specify it. Taking a strategic approach and focusing on the quality of the job and your fit within the organization can lead to more satisfying outcomes.