Hmm. We just ask people how much they want to make and give them as much time as they need to respond.
If it's higher than we can pay, then we say sorry we can't pay that. If it's way lower than we would expect we usually tell them that we wouldn't expect to pay less than X for their skills and experience.
This has worked great so far because if someone came back with a really low number and we just took it, then a month later they will realize they undershot and then they feel awkward about bringing it up - so, best to avoid that.
My ethos is: Pay people enough for them to not think about money. If you are only working for me for the pay then it's probably not going to be a great working relationship. They are better off going to work at megacorp where they can sham.
On the other hand, when someone states much more than you can afford - don't you think to just pass on this candidate, because she might feel unhappy even if she accepts the offer?
Also, to follow Patrick's advice - if someone doesn't give the answer but instead asks the same question to you - "what's the budget/range for this role? ", do you answer honestly?
If it's higher than we can pay, then we say sorry we can't pay that. If it's way lower than we would expect we usually tell them that we wouldn't expect to pay less than X for their skills and experience.
This has worked great so far because if someone came back with a really low number and we just took it, then a month later they will realize they undershot and then they feel awkward about bringing it up - so, best to avoid that.
My ethos is: Pay people enough for them to not think about money. If you are only working for me for the pay then it's probably not going to be a great working relationship. They are better off going to work at megacorp where they can sham.