If you're like most people, the most awkward question in a job interview is, "What's your biggest weakness?" We won't address that one here, but we will dig into a close second: "What's your previous salary?" A new bill moving through Michigan's legislature is trying to make companies mind their own paychecks. Let's see what's up!
Here are Five Fast Facts about banning pay history from interviews:
- ✋ Hard Pass - The bill would ban employers from asking about your past pay before offering you a job, hopefully putting more of a focus on what applicants can do. And for that answer, you're on your own.
- 👀 While You're At It - Employers also wouldn’t be allowed to ask about past benefits or credit history (unless it’s a job where that info is actually required, like finance or law). The idea is that your new paycheck should be based on your actual skills, not the fact that your last boss was a cheapskate who thought pizza parties were a valid form of currency.
- 🤔 Not An Outlier - At least 20 other states or local governments already have similar laws in place, meaning this is less ground-breaking than a shovel at a building dedication.
- 🤷 Stop Following Me Around - Supporters say asking about past wages can lock people (particularly women and minorities) into lower salaries from job to job, preventing them from breaking into the higher wages they deserve. It's like getting stuck on level 1 in a video game even if you beat it.
- 🤦 One Arm Tied Behind The Back - Critics of the bill say businesses often use things like past salary, credit history, and other similar data points to help them make better hiring decisions.
🔥Bottom line: Applying for a job is already about as fun as getting a root canal while doing long division, and they’re already stressful enough without someone asking for your entire financial autobiography. This bill is attempting to prevent your old paycheck from setting your new one...if you're worth it! Not everyone likes the idea, but it's definitely a spicy take that will have a major effect on paychecks if it gets passed. If you have thoughts, contact your elected reps to share 'em!
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