Introduction

In a bold move to redefine the hiring landscape, a Singaporean job seeker has sparked a compelling discussion on Reddit's Ask Singapore forum regarding the practice of disclosing previous salaries during job applications. Frustrated by persistent inquiries from recruiters about her past earnings, she took to the platform for advice, questioning whether she should reveal her previous salary, especially given the common mantra among recruiters that “there’s no point hiding it,” since employers would likely request this information anyway.

The Job Seeker's Concerns

The job seeker expressed her doubt, drawing on her own experience of being lowballed in previous offers solely based on her past salary. “I have accepted a lowball offer in the past; I am trying to climb out of it,” she articulated her apprehensions, seeking clarity on whether transparency was truly advantageous.

Responses from the Reddit Community

One thoughtful Redditor mentioned that while he typically shares his previous salary because he prefers honesty, he later regretted this when recruiters dismissed his asking salary as too high—20% more than his last pay, leading him to decline the position. "If they want to hire, don’t judge by previous pay. Judge by how much the work is valued," he emphasized. This sentiment resonated powerfully with many, illustrating a growing frustration with salary structures that rely on past compensation rather than the potential value of the candidate's skills.

Another user suggested a proactive approach: instead of disclosing her previous salary, the job seeker could inquire about the budget for the role directly. By determining the salary range first, she could assess if it aligns with her expectations before revealing any personal financial history. This strategy could empower candidates to better negotiate their worth without falling into the historical pay trap.

Moreover, a third commenter pointed out the futility of sharing prior salaries, noting that recruiters usually possess an understanding of their own budgetary constraints. Revealing either too high or too low a figure can negatively impact the negotiation, ultimately limiting potential salary outcomes.

The Legal Perspective

But is it lawful for recruiters to ask about previous salaries? In Singapore, according to Nodeflair—a platform focused on career development for tech professionals—employers can legally request such information, even asking for payslips. However, candidates are not obligated to comply and can tactfully steer the conversation toward salary ranges for the position instead. This not only maintains a professional narrative but also shifts the focus back onto the applicant's capabilities and the value they could bring to the role.

Conclusion

The ongoing discourse underscores a shift in mindset, prompting job seekers to advocate for their worth beyond past salaries. By challenging traditional hiring practices, these voices call for a more equitable job market where compensation reflects true skills and contributions rather than historical precedents.

As economic landscapes evolve, so too must recruitment strategies—it's clear that the conversation about how we determine worth in the workplace is far from over. How will this change impact your next job application? Stay tuned!