How to Handle Salary Questions in an Application Cover Letter

Handling your salary requests and questions in your cover letter is tricky, but can be done in a professional manner.

Your application for a new job will often be accompanied by your cover letter and resume. Traditionally, it is not considered appropriate to ask questions or make requests about your salary in the cover letter unless the job description specifically requests that you indicate your required salary. However, in some cases you may need to bring up what your salary to avoid potential misunderstandings. The closing paragraph of your letter is the best place to bring up salary questions.

Instructions

1. Write down all of your salary questions on a separate piece of paper for your eyes only. Because your cover letter and resume are tools to get an interview, not a job, most of your questions should wait until you have a chance to speak with your future employer and after you've moved through the application screening process.

2. Choose only the most urgent question you have or, if possible, merely indicate you have a question. Write this question in the final paragraph of your cover letter after the first sentence in which you state a desire to move ahead with an interview for this position.

3. Finish the paragraph by thanking the recipient for his time and consideration. Do not use more than one sentence to mention your salary questions; for example, "I have a few questions regarding the salary and other aspects of this position that I look forward to discussing with you" would suffice.

References

• Nothing But Cover Letters: Sample Cover Letter with Salary Requirements