Jim Holmes left a comment on my 25 Most Difficult Job Interview Questions post dealing with how to bring up salary, etc.
I mentioned in my response that under normal circumstances, the company will almost always bring up the money question first. But as soon as I posted that, I thought of an exception that was worthy of a more-detailed explanation.
One time I strongly recommend you (the candidate) bring up money/salary first is when you know you're asking for way more than the company wants to pay--in that circumstance, you'd better be up front about this at the VERY beginning of the cycle.
Follow this process:
- Send your resume (it better look amazing. Gold-leaf lettering!! Ok, not really, but do you get my point??)
- Call to confirm its arrival, and tell the recruiter/hiring manager something like this:
"_(name)_, thank you for taking the time to review my resume.
However, I have to tell you up-front that my salary expectations are somewhat higher than what I know you're looking to pay. I completely understand if that takes me out of the running on this position--no problem.
However, I like xxxxx about your company and I've dealt with xxxxx problem you're facing before, and I'd love to have another crack at a challenge like xxxxx again if I could.
If it makes sense for you to consider me even though I may be more expensive, I would look forward to the chance to visit with you and explore our options. I am confident the additional value I would bring would far exceed the difference in salary.."
Note that this conversation is to be done over the phone or in-person. If you send this by email, you deserve to not be hired.
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