I was going to be interviewed for two roles: LPM/VM. As the first round interview, I had an interview with the CEO. She asked me about my background, my career goals, my skills and weaknesses. It was an OK experience until we got to the next question, which was "What is your current salary?". I said that I preferred not to disclose that information. She smiled and said "No, how much money do you make in the U.S.?". The reason for this follow-up question was because I mentioned that I immigrated to the U.S. a couple of years ago. I repeated, smiling and in a polite manner that I choose not to disclose it. She was shocked, saying that I was the first person in her 30 years that declined to answer this question. I mentioned that that is private information and I do have a right to not disclose it. What she said next really threw me off balance, which was "It is probably because you are being paid much less at your current position”. I chose not to say anything and kept it professional even though I was done with the interview at that point. I finished the interview and received an e-mail from the CEO apologizing for not being aware of the “salary history ban” and asking her HR people to schedule the next interview. Thank you, but no. You do not need to apologize for something you were not aware of if it is in good faith. But I would prefer you apologized for trying to undervalue my 5-year experience in the industry with the assumption of being paid “much less” and interrupting me when I am trying to explain my right. This was just one giant red flag for me and I chose not to continue the process with them.
Salary history ban prohibits all employers from asking prospective or current employees about their salary history and compensation. And over the last few years, it has helped incredibly on closing the gender wage gap. Make sure you know your rights, and if you are in a state that has the salary history ban, exercise your right.