Handbook, chapter 22, page 33
What they say, what they mean
They ask what you currently make
"I'd rather focus on the value I'd bring and the market rate for this role at this level. What range do you have approved?"
The most expensive sentence in your career is "I'm currently making..." Never finish it.
Reading recruiter language
"This is a strong, competitive offer." There is room, and they expect a counter.
"This is the top of the band." For base, maybe. For equity and sign-on, usually not.
"We need an answer by tomorrow." A pressure tactic more often than a real deadline.
"What would it take to get you to yes?" They are ready to move. Name a specific number.
"Let me see what I can do." Good sign. Hold your number, do not pre-negotiate against yourself.
Interpretive, from recruiter and candidate reports. Read as tendencies, not rules. Low confidence.
