Shake off interview resentment

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Dear Joan:
Recently I went to an interview at a local hotel for a management position. There was a counter in the personnel office; behind the counter were some private offices, After filling our the hotel's application, the woman behind the counter read my resume and asked me questions about my current salary and how much of a cut I would be willing to take. Unfortunately, sitting behind me were other applicants for the position.

My own policy has never been to interview or ask personal questions in front of other people, no matter what position the applicant was applying for - but especially a management position. Should I write a letter to the personnel director and hotel manager or just chalk it up to a bad experience?

Answer:
Writing a letter may be just what you need right now - to blow off some steam. It won't help you get the job, but that appears to be gone anyway.

A negative attitude is the kiss of death in any interview. The tone of your letter suggests that some resentment has begun to take its toll on your outlook.

I didn't say that your resentment isn't justified. No one wants to answer questions about salary when other applicants are in the same room. Not only is it inconsiderate, it's unprofessional.

Negotiating a salary is a key factor in any job interview. It requires hearing about the job requirements, benefits, advancement potential and other non-cash bargaining information.

On the other hand, companies need to screen out applicants who may have the wrong price tag. It's simply an efficient way to save shopping time.

Most companies ask for salary information on the application (which is probably where you provided the information).

Next time, rather than putting down your exact salary, write in general terms. For example "mid-30s - negotiable based on the challenge and potential for growth." It may keep you in the running if you're in the same general ballpark as the new salary.

If you are asked a screening question about salary, try to stall by saying, "I hesitate to discuss any specifics on salary until I have a chance to hear more about the job and its potential and benefits." In the meantime, shake off the resentment you feel for interviewers who appear to be "doing you a favor." Remember when you were doing the screening and interviewing? I doubt that you intentionally acted superior to the applicants because you had a job they wanted.

On the contrary, you were just doing the best job you could to select the best candidate for the position. I'm sure your rejection of an applicant was not intended to be a personal affront. 

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