The real reasons for asking for this might vary depending upon if the recruiter is internal or external, and of course standard practise in each country. I've

The real reasons for asking for this might vary depending upon if the recruiter is internal or external, and of course standard practise in each country. I've been involved in recruitment for my own teams and some internal HR & finance managers will definitely ask this question to be able to provide the lowest possible offer and I will fight them on that. But I have never been told this information by an external recruiter working on behalf of a candidate. Possibly because they're working on commission, so are partially motivated to maximise compensation. As I have quite a few years experience most jobs aren't suitable for me and I don't want to waste time talking about them, let alone a phone interview. So when I'm looking for a new job, or I get cold-called, I will quickly ask for the job description and salary range, and if they won't give that I tell them a ballpark amount that I would be willing to move for. This ends a lot of calls very quickly. I negotiate salary later, from the position that I'm able to say no and find something else. As my current compensation is above market rate, I think it's working for me so far. Often when communication isn't as open & honest as it should be, you can still work your side.