A discussion on Reddit recently sparked debate about whether it is “impolite” to bring up salary during job interviews.
One Malaysian jobseeker shared that when they asked about pay, the interviewer responded by questioning if they only showed up “for the money.” The candidate later explained they were not being opportunistic, but simply wanted clarity after being burned before by a company that misled them with false salary promises.
Photo via Hudson Singapore
Their story struck a chord with many online. Commenters pointed out that asking about pay is not only reasonable but necessary. After all, employment is an exchange of skills for fair compensation, and transparency should be part of the process. Some even said the interviewer’s dismissive reaction was a red flag, and that dodging salary questions often signals a workplace culture lacking in respect or honesty.
In today’s job market, discussing salary should not be taboo. Workers deserve to know what they are signing up for, just as employers deserve to know whether a candidate is the right fit. Open communication benefits both sides.
PSA for jobseekers: Always ask about salary, benefits, and working conditions before accepting a role. It is not rude, it is responsible. Do not let fear of judgment stop you from protecting yourself from vague promises or potential scams.
If an employer treats your question as a problem, take it as a warning sign to walk away!
