What salary did you make in your last position? Is it legal to ask an applicant that question? If you’re in Massachusetts a law goes into effect in 2018 prohibiting employers from asking that question. California passed legislation on a similar law, but it was vetoed. Many other states are working towards legislation regarding salary questions.
While this information provides data for employers it ultimately perpetuates the wage gap between gender and minorities/non-minorities. It can also cause an employer to not offer a qualified applicant a position. It could be felt the applicant made too much previously and the company cannot match it or they may feel the applicant wasn’t making enough leading to questions that lower wages indicates less skill or potential. In addition the question is limited by exaggeration and costs of living across the country.
While the question is technically legal, the best practice is not to ask about salary history to prevent potential lawsuits. It is still reasonable and acceptable to ask an applicant about their preferred salary range.
CyQuest can provide your company with compensation analysis and other HR issues!