The one question you should avoid answering at all costs in an interview

Ever been asked this at an interview?

There are many questions that get thrown at you during an interview – whether it’s the pointless ‘what are your hobbies?’ or the mind-blogging ‘what is your favourite quote?’, you need to be ready with some killer answers if you hope to impressive your perspective employer. However, there is one question that you should never answer – that’s if you have any hope of getting a raise. About 43 percent of hopeful candidates say they were asked about the salary they were on in the current job, according to new figures released this week by PayScale. While sheer panic might result in your answering truthfully, experts say to avoid doing so at all costs. “No one needs to know what you make currently,” says career coach, Cynthia Pong. “The only reason employers ask this is so that they can low-ball you when they make you an offer and keep you in the same salary bracket. Resist!” The phrase ‘easier said than done’ comes to mind. So, what can you say if that question is asked? Most people say to use the classic spin. Turning the point of conversation from what you’re on to what you’d expect. Mention how you have seen pay increases at your current job and believe it is only right that, if you were successful, you would see another increase in your new job. The key is knowing what you salary expectations are and making sure they are realistic to the company. Going in with a bracket for them to work with will help you achieve a figure close to that. Research has shown that 84 percent of employers expect successful candidates to negotiate the salary offered, so don't feel scared to return with a counter-offer. However, studies show only 30 percent of women negotiate at all and many experts suggest this has to do with the historical role women played in the workplace. Maintaining control over the information you share will help you when it comes to discussing your salary. “You would never go into an interview without a resume,” says Equal Pay Negotiations founder, Katie Donovan. “In the same way, you should never accept your offer without negotiating your salary.”