Here's the way to handle your situation:  If you're asked what your present salary is, be honest and tell them what it is, but make the point that one of primary reasons you're looking is because you know your salary is lower than it should be - then state, regardless of whether you're asked or not, what your anticipated salary range is.  Say something like, "My present salary is $Z, but my anticipated salary is negotiable within the $X to $Y range."  Just make sure that your X and Y amounts are realistic.  The general rule is it's not worth switching jobs unless you can increase your salary be AT LEAST 10% to 15% more than you're earning.  If you think your anticipated salary should be higher than that, fine, just be prepared to state specifically why your qualifications for the job will increase its value to the employer, based on things like your experience, past job performance, training, skills, and education.  Part of this exercise will also be based on the value the employer has already put on the job - that's pretty much beyond your control - but you can demonstrate that the job will be worth more to the employer based on your qualifications and push the salary more toward the higher end of the budgeted range the employer has set for it.  Make sense?

Paul W. Barada

The Negotiation Expert