In today's job-market, given the economic slowdown, wages get rigid and many employees are marginalised, stiff competition from other job hunters may lower the salary-levels thus leaving you with no opportunity to earn what you are or were making previously. Hence those who were very well compensated are heading towards skilfully assisting an employer comprehend that they're ready, agreeable and keen to assume a position at a lesser pay.
Be Honestly Willing to Accept a Lesser-Pay
Employers may still not be ready to recruit you given that you're poised to earn less in your new job as compared to your previous job as they believe that you will skip the ship when the market gains momentum again. Thus, honestly figure-out your determination to the company with the scenario of less earnings and search-out if you can avail other choices. You need to be sure that you will not opt for hunting a better-paying job in just a week after you begin start. Also consider that is it the entire industry that is suffering from wage drop or just one company.
The Past-Pay/New Role Talking
Experts have different opinion on handling the higher-prior-salary issue in an interview. Some opine that applicants ought to recognize this up-front with an employer rather than leaving the latter to wonder after referring the candidate's salary history. While others preach that bringing up a prior salary issue should be avoided until you're asked about it straight, and you can still be creative by conveying that you are quite flexible and open-minded on the prospect, and really inquisitive about what the position is offering. If still the employer persists for a salary history, recognize that you were employed on a higher salary, but then continue to clarify the reasons you are ready to work for less-pay. Please note that the nucleus of your clarification must focus on the job-role and not the salary.
Make the employer realize what is potentially saved by indulging yourself as a promising resource available at a low-rate.
Some lines that you can try:
I'm willing to grow and learn, and I can see good platform to do that here.
I was earning more, but presently I'm at the core on searching the perfect job at a fair salary.
The feature and firm growth potential of your company pleases me.
This industry will transform my career on a new track, and you'll gain from my past experience.
You need to be cautious in mentioning about work-life balance, as you don't intend to be perceived as a clock-watcher. Further, you can also opt to hunt for contract positions as provisional or consulting assignments can make you earn some income while you're still searching for the right job.
