What to tell when recruiters ask for current level?

Microsoft
MGXH64 πŸ₯œπŸ™Œ

Go to company page Microsoft

MGXH64 πŸ₯œπŸ™Œ
Mar 16 14 Comments

Looking for new opportunities with a level up as I was down leveled when I joined my current company. But recruiters always ask for the level in the first call and tie me in the same band/level as my current company. What should I tell recruiters so that I do not get tied into a level? My level should be determined by my yoe and interview.

tc 160k

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TOP 14 Comments
  • New
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    New

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    just say the level you’re shooting for. why is this even a question
    Mar 16 3
    • New
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      New

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      bg check is normally not that detailed. they aren’t going to quibble about a mismatch if you pass the interview
      Mar 16
    • Background check in my case just verified I work in the company and my title. I had my colleague replying to the background check while I was literally sitting with them. Lol
      Mar 16
  • Levels depend on each company and it's a different story in each company.

    Just be confident to tell recruiters you're targeting the level of the vacancy itself, what does yours have to do with the level you're applying for?

    With that mindset you'll never be able to apply to a tech lead in a company if you're a software engineer for example.

    I was never asked about the "level", but usually the years of experience and what I do. And when asked about current compensation I simply say "I don't want to reveal my current compensation but I can tell you my expected range" and sometimes I don't even say my expected range until I'm through with the process.
    Mar 16 3
    • I received an offer as a lead before while I'm a SWE with 5yr experience. Told them during the process that "I ultimately want to move to leadership" and talked about and I want to and situations I showed leadership in, etc. To justify the jump
      Mar 16
    • Google
      gyaani

      Go to company page Google

      gyaani
      It’s best to not tell your expected range. Your max could be lower than what they are willing to pay, and will silently/happily get you for even lower than your max. One has to make the employer take the first move!
      Mar 16
  • Either lie or tell the truth, what other options are there?
    Mar 16 4
  • VMware
    OJBw57

    Go to company page VMware

    OJBw57
    I always start with $1M and let them negotiate down
    Mar 16 0