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How to Find Out What a Job Pays When It’s Not Listed in the Job Post

Last week, we talked about why some employers don’t share a salary range in their job postings. This week, we’ll explore what you can do, as the job seeker, to discover what that pay scale might be.

One of the most frustrating aspects of job searching is coming across a position that seems perfect—except the salary isn’t listed. While some companies disclose pay ranges upfront, many still choose to keep this information private. However, understanding salary expectations before applying or interviewing is crucial. It helps you determine whether the job aligns with your financial needs and career goals, while also ensuring you’re not wasting time on a position that ultimately won’t meet your expectations.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry. There are several ways to uncover salary information for a job, even if it’s not included in the job post. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Research Salary Data on Job and Career Websites

Numerous online resources provide salary estimates for various positions, industries, and locations. Some of the most reliable sources include:

  • Glassdoor – Offers salary data based on employee submissions, company reviews, and job titles.
  • Payscale – Provides personalized salary reports based on your experience, skills, and location.
  • Indeed Salaries – Aggregates salary information from job postings and employee reviews.
  • Salary.com – Offers detailed salary reports based on job titles and regions.

By using these platforms, you can get a general idea of what a position in your industry and location typically pays. Keep in mind that salaries vary depending on factors like company size, experience level, and job responsibilities.

2. Check Company Review Websites

Websites like Glassdoor and Indeed often include salary insights alongside company reviews. If the specific job title you’re interested in isn’t listed, look for similar roles within the same company. This can help you estimate what the employer might be offering for the position.

3. Use Government and Industry Reports

Government agencies, such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), provide salary data across various industries. Many industry associations and professional organizations also conduct annual salary surveys, which can offer valuable insights into pay trends in your field.

4. Network and Ask Industry Peers

If you have connections in your industry, reach out to them for guidance. Speaking with current or former employees of the company (or professionals with similar roles at other companies) can give you a clearer picture of salary expectations.

Networking strategies to uncover salary information include:

  • Attending industry events or conferences
  • Engaging in professional groups on LinkedIn
  • Asking mentors or colleagues about typical pay for similar positions

5. Look for Similar Job Postings with Salaries

Even if a specific job post doesn’t include salary information, other listings for the same role at different companies might. Search for similar job titles in the same location and industry that do disclose salary details. This can help you infer a reasonable range for the position.

6. Consider the Company’s Size and Industry

Salaries often depend on the employer’s size and industry. Large corporations may offer higher salaries and better benefits, while startups and nonprofits might have lower pay but provide equity, bonuses, or other perks. Researching a company’s financial health and funding status can also give clues about its salary structure.

7. Ask During the Interview Process

If you’ve done your research and still don’t have a clear answer, it’s acceptable to ask about salary expectations during the interview process. However, timing and wording matter. Consider these approaches:

  • Early-stage inquiries: If salary is a dealbreaker, you might ask something like, “Before we proceed, can you share the salary range for this role?”
  • Midway through the process: Once you’ve discussed your qualifications, you can ask, “What is the expected salary range for this position?”
  • Final negotiation stage: If you’ve received an offer, you can discuss pay based on your research and expectations.

8. Utilize AI and Salary Estimator Tools

Some companies, including LinkedIn and Glassdoor, use artificial intelligence to estimate salaries based on market trends and real-world data. These tools can be particularly useful when other resources fall short.

Conclusion

While it can be frustrating when salary information isn’t listed on a job post, there are plenty of ways to uncover it. By leveraging online resources, networking, and strategic questioning, you can gain insight into what a role pays before investing too much time in the hiring process. Understanding your worth and being prepared with salary expectations will also put you in a stronger position when negotiating offers. Happy job hunting!