What Does 'What Does' Mean in Salary Discussions?

Recently, what seems to be a very unusual term in the world of employment has caught my attention. I have been inquiring about salary levels and progression for nearly 60 years, yet the term 'What Does' for what is typically referred to as 'Salary levels/Salary progression' has not crossed my path until now. It was brought to my notice by a non-native English speaker and it piqued my curiosity. Could this be a new term used in a specific company, or is there some nuance I am missing?

Understanding 'What Does'

The term 'What Does' in the context of salary discussions seemed peculiar to me, but it is possible that it is a localized or industry-specific term. From the perspective of a non-native English speaker, it could potentially indicate a request for the current salary. However, given that they used 'What Does' instead of more conventional terms such as 'Salary levels' or 'Salary progression', it is indeed an unusual choice of words.

Why Ask for Current Salary?

One might wonder why someone would inquire about a candidate's current salary rather than their salary expectations. Generally, this inquiry can serve multiple purposes. Firstly, it can help to set a realistic expectation in terms of what the company can offer. Secondly, it can provide context for the negotiation process. By knowing the current salary, the company can adjust their offer to make it competitive and satisfactory for the candidate.

Implications for Job Seekers and Recruiters

For job seekers, understanding these nuances can be crucial. If an interviewer asks 'What Does your current salary look like?', there is a strong chance they are seeking a concrete number that can be used as a starting point for salary discussions. For recruiters, it is essential to be mindful of the terminology used to avoid potential misunderstandings and ensure a smooth negotiation process.

Best Practices in Salary Discussions

Here are a few best practices to navigate salary discussions effectively:

Be Prepared: Research the market value for the position in your industry and location.

Communicate Openly: Be honest about your current salary, especially if you are inquiring about a new position.

Set Clear Expectations: Discuss your salary expectations early in the conversation. This can help set the tone for the negotiation process.

Avoid Being Too Specific: While it is important to be transparent, being too specific about your current salary can sometimes backfire.

Know When to Negotiate: Understand that some salaries may be flexible, and there is room for negotiation based on your skills, experience, and the company's budget.

Conclusion

The term 'What Does' in the context of salary discussions might be a localized or company-specific term. While it might seem unusual, it is crucial for job seekers and recruiters to be aware of such terms to navigate salary discussions effectively. Understanding the implications of asking for current salary can help set realistic expectations and ensure smooth negotiations.