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Survey: Managers More Open to Discussing Compensation in First or Second Job Interview

TORONTO, June 12, 2014 /CNW/ - Contrary to conventional wisdom, employers are open to discussing salary early in the hiring process, suggest the results of a recent Robert Half survey. The research found 38 per cent of senior managers believe it is OK to ask about compensation and benefits in the first job interview, while 25 per cent suggest waiting for the second interview.

The survey findings also show there may be little downside to asking about salary in early-round interviews. Only one in 10 respondents (11 per cent) said they decided against hiring someone because he or she brought up pay and benefits prematurely.

The survey was developed by Robert Half, the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm, and conducted by an independent research firm. It is based on interviews with more than 300 senior managers in Canada.

Senior managers were asked, "When is it appropriate for job candidates to ask about compensation and benefits during the hiring process?" Their responses:

Senior managers were also asked, "Have you ever decided not to hire a top candidate after he or she asked about compensation and benefits too early in the interview process?" 11 percent said yes, while 86 per cent said no (3 per cent answered "don't know".)

"It's important the candidate and potential new boss are within the same range of expectations before getting too far along in the hiring process," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, International Staffing Operations "Before bringing up the topic of compensation at an interview, job seekers should research what the salary range for someone with their skills and experience should be."

Scileppi suggests tapping into networks, including professional recruiters, and consulting industry salary reports for standards in a specific market. "Though pay and benefits are important factors when considering a job, it should never come across as the only priority in an interview. Employers seek candidates who are enthusiastic about the role and the company," he said.

About Robert Half

Founded in 1948, Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized staffing firm. The Menlo Park-based company has more than 340 staffing locations worldwide and offers online job search services on its divisional websites, all of which can be accessed at roberthalf.ca.

For more insights on compensation trends, download the 2014 Salary Guide from Robert Half at www.roberthalf.ca/salarycentre. Follow Robert Half on Twitter at twitter.com/RobertHalf_CAN or visit blog.roberthalf.com for additional career and management advice.

SOURCE Robert Half Management Resources

Image with caption: "Robert Half Survey: Managers more open to discussing compensation in first or second job interview. (CNW Group/Robert Half Management Resources)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140612_C9419_PHOTO_EN_41266.jpg