To ask for an idea of salary?

[oldsockeater]

I applied for a job in a different and more expensive part of the country. It's about a 5 hour journey to get there. I would be happy to relocate for the right job.
The job description gave no info on salary, hours, holidays or anything like that, although it was detailed on the job role.
Now I have been invited to interview. I am keen, but only if the salary at least matches what I currently get. Not least because it will cost double in rent to what I currently pay. I don't want to go all that way then find the salary not right. The job is private sector and a bit niche so I really don't know what sort of salary they would offer. WIBU to ask for an idea of this before going to the interview?

I think it is fair to ask yes. It is a lot of time and expense to get their and find out you cannot afford to take the job!

The best advice I got was rather than ask about salary, simply state your salary expectations. Also never say what you’re currently on (even if asked) but respond to the question by stating what you’re looking for. I don’t see any issue with saying when you respond to the invitation that you are looking for a role at approximately £x and whether that is in line with their thinking. As an employer I’d be fine with that as there is no point wasting time with someone I clearly can’t afford. The only caveat is that the question doesn’t come across as if that’s all you’re interested in.... it is off putting when at the end of an interview the candidates only question is about money. Usually when no salary is stated it’s becauae their testing the market and don’t really know what they’d have to pay.

Yes ask, it’s shows ambition. If they say what are your salary expectations think carefully, and add at least £3-4K on to your current wage. I’m recruiting at the moment and we ask that - the women are all selling themselves short by a LOT! Theynwill have a budget but we can alswaysnfind the extra for a good candidate or pay the top of the budget for a good candidate.

I hate it when they don't publish at least a all park figure. Yes, ask or at least tell them what your thoughts are and ask if it's financial worth your while attending the interview. Don't give a specific salary as you might be underselling yourself.

Thanks that is reassuring. If it was closer I would just go to the interview and discuss salary afterwards but as it's so far it seems daft.

May I suggest you look at Glassdoor or salary dot com ? I'm not affiliated with either but they can give you a pretty good idea of salary ranges by location and position.

Can you look at similar jobs in the same area and see what they're offering?

Yes that's the idea. You get more details such as interview process and ex employees if you register.

Good suggestion re. Glassdoor.