First Test of Employability - Be Honest
by Scheherazade Gray
(Jersey City, New Jersey)
I recently applied to a job at a United Nations agency. I knew the application process was bureaucratic but I did not quite expect the length of detail that they required regarding the compensation history. They asked all the history including salary increases obtained over the years. I was surprised by the extent of detail and had to pull all my job records. I was eager to get the job and hence I dutifully submitted all the required information without even questioning it. Let's face it, if you fail to give it, the employer might think that you have something to hide. I would think that they use it as an indicator for your perseverance and success. In this day and age and the current competitiveness of the job market, I am truly not surprised at the employers’ requests. In certain instances your salary history can be a hindrance. If too high, certain companies will systematically disqualify you and this despite the fact that you are aware of the paying rate for the job you have applied for. I guess that this is the first test of employability and when asked one should be honest.