Asking pay rate before interview

Hands and Heart · Aug 21, 2008

I know it is hard to not know the starting rate for a job in which you may be interested, but asking about pay rates prior to a job offer just seems a bit tacky. It will make the interviewer wonder if money is the only factor driving your decision. One of the factors in accepting a job offer would be the distance you would have to drive. So if you are not interested in making that drive on a regular basis, why go on the interview in the first place unless you are considering relocating? If you are going to consider relocating, a one time trek to see what the hospital is like and if you really would like to work there would not be that big of a deal, would it? :wink2:

zoo*moon, BSN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

i know it is hard to not know the starting rate for a job in which you may be interested, but asking about pay rates prior to a job offer just seems a bit tacky. it will make the interviewer wonder if money is the only factor driving your decision. one of the factors in accepting a job offer would be the distance you would have to drive. so if you are not interested in making that drive on a regular basis, why go on the interview in the first place unless you are considering relocating? if you are going to consider relocating, a one time trek to see what the hospital is like and if you really would like to work there would not be that big of a deal, would it? :wink2:

i know, i wanted to avoid "tacky". yes i am considering relocating. no, a one time trek is not a big deal. thanks, just what i needed. a smack to the head.

RNsRWe, ASN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

The concern is I don't want to drive 2 1/2 to 4 hours then find out I'll be making less. I know, it depends. I might accept a position that pays less-- depends on the position. But generally speaking, I wouldn't interview at a place if it would mean I'd be making less. Why don't they offer up that information up front? I've looked around and so far only one hospital posted their starting rate with the job descriptions. But I'm afraid to ask if it'll mean no interview.
P.S. Sorry for the negative user name. Anyone know if it can be changed?

Contact the administrators for allnurses...they can change your name with good reason, and I think you have good reason! :)

As for your interview question, I wouldn't be asking about $$ on the phone, before they have even seen you. If I were interviewing you, you would likely not get that interview--or be placed on the bottom of the pile since you'd come across as being only interested in the cash, not whatever else the facility has to offer a new hire.

Good luck!

PICNICRN, BSN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

I have to say that I totally disagree(respectfully) with the folks that think asking before the interview is "tacky". You can tactfully ask a few general questions( size of the hospital, unit, ect.)... then ask the general pay scale for your position. Remember, HR does not want to waist their time or the interviewing manager's time on someone who has absolutely no intention of working for them if the pay is not right. Nor do you want to waist your time. JMHO

As for your screen name-if you go to your account profile, there is an option to change any of your info including your screen name-- good luck to you!

Jules A, MSN · Aug 21, 2008

I'd also be hesitant to ask before the interview also but many HR offices will give you a range over the phone and you probably wouldn't even have to give your name, or you could get a friend to call. Good luck!

justme1972 · Aug 21, 2008

It is considered to be extremely poor ettiquette to ask about pay until you have been offered a job.

Any HR site will tell you that.

FionaSophia · Aug 21, 2008

look online. If the hospital is unionized you should be able to find the contract online.

Jules A, MSN · Aug 21, 2008

It is considered to be extremely poor ettiquette to ask about pay until you have been offered a job.
Any HR site will tell you that.

While I totally agree if you are asking the interviewer I have in fact called HR departments before for a quote, they didn't even ask my name, and also many of the websites for facilities in my area actually list a range.

CHATSDALE · Aug 21, 2008

many times they will give you a ball park figure, with the proviso

based on experience

if you are anticipating relocation, make the drive and check out other jobs and housing etc while you are there

akanini, MSN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

I had one of my friends call a few places and ask the salary and they told her. At least I didn't feel guilty about making the phone call!!! lol

Bortaz, MSN, RN · Aug 21, 2008

I don't know why some people think the salary should be some great secret, unknown before you accept a job or whatever. Keeping the money part of it secret is just a way for employers to lowball your initial offer and hope you fall for it. All it does it give the employer one more control over your employment situation.

If they're forced to give you a range before you commit much of your time into the process, they'll be forced to make a legitimate offer for your services.

I've noticed this is particularly rampant in nursing. I guess it's all part of that "yer only n it 4 the monneyyyys!!!!!" crap. Like anyone would do the job for free.