CTC and expected salary: on your resume or not?
By Bhagirath Sheela, founder of JobCatch ·
Indian job forms and recruiters ask about current and expected CTC almost every time. The resume itself is usually not the place for it — but you need a clear, honest answer ready.
Leave it off the resume
Put salary in the form fields that ask for it, not on the resume. A number on the resume can set your offer before anyone knows what you bring, and the resume is often forwarded to people who do not need to see it. The exceptions are formats that require it, such as some government proformas, which state it.
Know what CTC includes
Cost to company (CTC) is everything an employer spends on you in a year: fixed pay, variable or bonus, the employer's provident fund contribution, gratuity, insurance and sometimes other benefits. Your in-hand monthly pay is lower. When you compare offers, compare the fixed part and in-hand pay, not only the CTC.
Answering the question
- Current CTC: give the real figure and, if useful, its split: "₹9 lakh: ₹8 lakh fixed, ₹1 lakh variable".
- Expected CTC: give a range based on the role and the market, decided before the call.
- Be accurate. Many employers ask for payslips or bank statements before an offer and verify them during background checks. An inflated figure that is found out can cost you the offer.
Questions
Is it compulsory to share current CTC in India?
There is no law requiring it, but many employers ask and some will not proceed without it. You can explain why your expectation is based on the role rather than your current pay.
Should a fresher write expected salary on the resume?
No. Campus placements and fresher roles usually have a fixed package; discuss it only if asked.
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