I (25F) just started a new 9-6 job – two other employees started with me – both significantly older and with way more experience (I’m guessing in their late 30/ 40s). We were speaking about our past job experience and one of them mentioned that he worked at a rival firm to my old firm. Out of curiosity, I asked how much his old firm was paying him. Both of them immediately got offended that I asked about how much they make and told me it was taboo to ask someone how much they earn
… the man doesn’t even work at that firm anymore – I wasn’t even asking about his current pay.
Are these people actually serious? I’ve never kept quiet about my salary and I never will. Are all old people still like this?