The Alarming Request

SINGAPORE: In a recent incident shared on Reddit, a man reported an alarming request from a prospective employer who insisted that he resign from his current job before they would disclose the salary details for a position he was shortlisted for. The situation has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about common practices in the hiring process.

The Communication Breakdown

In his post on the r/askSingapore forum, the man described how he was contacted by the company over the weekend about their “Sales and Marketing entry-level role.” During this communication, however, the employer made an unusual stipulation that caught him off guard: he would need to submit his resignation before they could arrange a meeting to discuss contract details.

“I asked why I needed to resign first instead of simply having a discussion regarding the position and its terms,” he articulated in the post. “My previous experiences with other companies involved straightforward communication about pay via text or email prior to any agreement.” Notably, the interviewer reiterated the need for his resignation, claiming that the company required this step to facilitate a meeting with HR afterward.

Vague Salary Communications

Despite probing for more information on the offered salary, the man received vague responses. The interviewer hinted that while the base pay might seem modest, commissions could significantly boost his earnings depending on the team's performance against key performance indicators (KPIs). This approach hinted at the company’s advertised salary range of S$3,000 to S$5,000, leaving him feeling uncertain about the potential offer.

Community Reactions

Following the call, he expressed his discomfort and skepticism: “What if they offer me a lowball salary or an unfavorable contract?” he questioned. Concerned about the implications of such a demand, he turned to the Reddit community for insight, asking if it is standard practice for companies to request candidates resign before reviewing salary and contractual terms.

The responses to his post were swift and pointed. Many users echoed his apprehension, deeming the request unprofessional and manipulative. “Do not resign just to see their offer,” advised one commenter, while another cautioned, “This seems fishy; they may want to strip you of your negotiating power.” One user further added that the employer's lack of a formal job offer made the entire situation even more suspicious.

A Broader Issue

This situation isn’t an isolated event. In another alarming case, a man took to Reddit to share that he was sued by a recruitment agency for S$2,000 after missing a job interview due to personal reasons, despite informing the agency in advance. Such experiences shed light on the complexities of job seeking and the need for transparency during the hiring process.

Conclusion

As job seekers navigate these treacherous waters of employment, it’s essential to remain vigilant, trust your instincts, and seek clarity before making significant career decisions. Remember, a job offer should not come at the expense of your current position or peace of mind!