I am looking for a new job because I need a higher salary...?

I have an interview tomorrow. When I am asked WHY I am planning to leave my current position, do I tell them because of my salary?





The reality is, I was hit with a lay off a couple of years ago. Starting over in a different industry was tough, and I knew I would be taking a pay cut...which I certainly did...nearly 30%! Since then, I have divorced and now live on a single income. I have to make more money.





But, how do I say this?
I am looking for a new job because I need a higher salary...?
No, do not bring up salary. Tell them you no longer feel challenged and are looking for a better opportunity.


I was in your shoes once, same exact situation. My pay cut was close to 50%.
Reply:The personal problems and salary are irrelevant to the recruiter and should not even be mentioned!





Be up-front about the problems you had with the previous layoff and job uncertainty.





Emphasise the fact you changed industries and took a significant salary hit! That is a good example of high motivation!





Instead of mentioning the need for a higher salary, make sure they realise that you are looking to progress in your current industry.





Good Luck!
Reply:That's a really tough situation. I sympathize with you.





Would the prospective employer offer you more money than the previous one? Was it in the ad for the job?





Is there anyone at the company you can ask about how they negotiate salary requests? Have you any idea of the range of salary for the position you applied for?





I know I'm answering a question with a question, but it's the best I can do. These are things you should think about.
Reply:I think looking for a better opportunity is the best answer, it doesn't point fingers at anyone and it shows that you are willing to try.
Reply:No don't give reason of only making more money. Employer will look at you to see how you benefit there company. Giving more money answer clearly shows you are not interested in work or care less about work. Instead say my qualification %26amp; work you are expecting is matching. I will love to do this work. If after giving job they asked you your old salary %26amp; said you were making less in last job so we will also give less salary then tell them the situation if you want to that you were layed off or simply give some reason how your old work %26amp; this new work is different challenging/more demanding.
Reply:Salary is important - and when you have bills and people depending on you, it's that much more important. Yet, during an interview, it's important to focus on the employer's needs, not your own. If all else matches up, salary will follow. Think about what you are looking for beyond salary - challenges, team setting vs. individual, long term opportunities to grow your position within the company - and be prepared to answer that question. Also be prepared to answer why you are leaving. If you're being honest with yourself (I don't want to put words in your mouth) your reasons for leaving are probably the same or similar to why you want the job at the new employer - because those weren't achievable at the former company. Rehearse your responses and you'll do well.





Example: Because of family needs that required an urgent need to pay bills, I took the first position available, and have performed well (specific examples, contributions). Since then, I've learned that I need to expand my opportunities and grow my career. Your company is a good fit for that because of A, B, C (examples) - but more importantly, because my background and experiences will allow me to deliver immediate value for you in ________, ________, and ______ areas. Etc. Etc. Good luck. Before the interview is over, ask some good questions about how your goals are set, and how your goals are aligned with the company, etc. And always ask for the job. The next morning, follow-up via email and letter, then call 48 hours after the interview to check on progress (unless you've been given a different time frame by the interviewer). Best wishes for success
Reply:Simply say that you "are looking for better growth opportunities"
Reply:The best answer is that you are simply looking for a better opportunity where you can best apply your training and experience. Most intervewers will accept that as a very positive response to that question.





Your instincts are correct not to say you need or are leaving for more money. Even though money is still one of the leading motivators to change jobs, people are still uncomfortable with any suggestion that that is your key motivator.





Hope this helps.





Feel free to email with any questions.





Mike@directyourcareer.com





www.directyourcareer.com
Reply:It depends. I'm the type who likes to base my answers around the interviewer. Some interviewers are very down-to-earth and you could tell them the truth. Your quandry is a very real one and it doesnt look bad on your part. On the other hand, if the person interviewing you seems a bit stiff, I would tell them something along the lines of how you are looking for a challenge __insert some braggish stuff about the Company_ and then say I know that as a member of your team I will be able to challenge myself doing_ insert some of your job description_.
Reply:I don't think there is any shame in telling the truth here. Something like "My current income doesn't cover my living expenses."


Drop the single parent line. That worked for me.