Totally agree. Getting a salary ballpark out early can save both sides a lot of time. As a potential employee it's important to phrase it right as "If you are

Totally agree. Getting a salary ballpark out early can save both sides a lot of time. As a potential employee it's important to phrase it right as "If you are not going to pay at least X we are wasting our time". Where X does not need to be your current salary - but really what would be least it would take for you to work there. If they insist on current salary be firm on X. Point out that this is based on what it would take you to consider them, and you are already taking into account a lot of factors like company prestige, type of work, location, lost options etc. It is important to realize that you are not giving away any negotiating power by putting out a lower bound. One easy trick is to mention that you are also talking to other companies that already agreed to the same lower bound. Also do not ask for or let them tell you an upper bound from the hiring company. If they end up really wanting you it will be harder for them to change that. Getting a lower bound will help both parties. An upper bound you do not walk away from will hurt your position a bit though.