The number one reason that employers want your salary information, is so they can negotiate low, or they use it as a ‘screening tool’.  Most employers will greet you with recruiting methods that slash your freedom to negotiate, even before you are interviewed.

The reality is, there is no good reason on earth, why an employer needs your salary history, before or even during the preliminary process.  There is a ton of information out there on ‘medium’ salaries and wages for each occupation and they can determine themselves whether you offer good ‘value’ to their company. 

If you divulge your old salary, then straight away, this number will directly influence any salary negotiation and will usually push down the salary.

‘While I may request salary histories from others, I never comply with that demand when I’m in the job market. Why not? I know a guillotine when I see one – I design them’ – HR Executive, Showing You the Money, Job Interviews for Dummies

So keep your salary history under wraps.

If you have been invited to a job interview and you have either been looking for a while, or this is your dream job, you might be feeling jittery, and have butterflies in your stomach.  After all – this interview could change your life!

If you are feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you’re a CEO, software engineer, branding guru, or even HR Manager, the reality is that even the best-prepared job candidate can get nervous and come across as a blubbering idiot. Back before I was an entrepreneur and business owner, job interviews would give me stage fright and as a natural introvert, I still find myself with clammy palms before a big presentation.

Looking back, some of the best job interviews I had, was when I did not really need the job. With an almost cavalier attitude I enjoyed the job interview and came across as personable and confident.  Likewise, when the interview mattered (in my head anyway), I became a bumbling idiot. 

So how to you calm the nerves, avoid stage fright, and perform like a super star?