Here’s some career advice you can bank on: Don’t include your salary requirements in your resume unless an employer specifically requests that information in the job posting. Mentioning compensation can come across as presumptuous. In addition, you could put yourself at a disadvantage later if the job pays more than the salary you list.
Plus, money is not everything.
Wait until you’ve secured a job interview and the employer has expressed interest in hiring you before broaching the subject. Also, be sure you’ve explored the projected salary ranges for your specialization in the latest Salary Guide From Robert Half.
These job applicants put the cart before the horse:
RESUME: “Recent grad seeking a well-paying, part-time writing job (I’m easily worth $70K for part-time editing and writing) that would allow me to work from coffee shops at my own convenience.”
That’s a “latte” of money for not a lot of experience.
“SALARY REQUIREMENTS: I am looking for either a rate of $120 per day or $120 per hour.”
We'll take the daily rate.
“SALARY REQUIREMENTS: I want L.A. money.”
We didn’t know La-La Land had its own currency.
COVER LETTER: “I am looking to make very good money in a short time. I need to make the type of money you see Tony Montana making in the film Scarface.”
That movie came out before we were born, and he’s not our idea of the model employee.
“SALARY REQUIREMENTS: $100k with sign-on bonus of $5K. It’s what I am woth.”
We need more proof, and you need to proofread.
COVER LETTER: “My firm salary requirements are $17 to $20 per hour, though I’m willing to accept any other salary amounts.”
Perhaps “firm” isn’t the most appropriate word.
“SALARY REQUIREMENTS: I deserve boatloads of money. If you are frustrated by the request, I am not the employee for you.”
We agree on the second part.
Robert Half's Resumania® blog series addresses the lighter side of the workplace, with fun topics to help you get through the workday.
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