Pay Transparency in Recruitment – A Major Change in the Job Market Is Near
The Polish Parliament is currently working on legislation regarding pay transparency, which could come into effect later this year. The amendment to the Labour Code aims to increase the transparency of the recruitment process, addressing the expectations of both candidates and employers.
What will change?
Under the new regulations, employers will be required to inform candidates about the salary for the position they are applying for. This information can be provided either in paper or electronic form – for example, in a job advertisement or before the interview. Employers will have the option to disclose either an exact salary figure or a salary range based on neutral criteria, such as gender. Another key element is the ban on asking candidates about their previous salary.
Why is this important?
Research conducted by No Fluff Jobs shows that as many as 92.9% of Poles consider the disclosure of salary ranges to be a crucial part of job advertisements. This is especially important to younger generations – a striking 97% of Gen Z candidates prefer applying for jobs with clearly defined pay. Salary transparency not only builds trust in employers but also supports pay equity and helps eliminate discrimination.
Controversies and challenges
Although the draft law received a positive opinion from the Ministry of Family, Labour and Social Policy, it hasn’t been without controversy. The original version of the bill called for pay transparency both during recruitment and employment. However, due to opposition from employer organizations and legislative difficulties, the focus was narrowed to the recruitment phase only. Experts point out potential inconsistencies arising from the separation of legislative work on implementing EU pay equity directives.
What’s next?
The law is set to come into force six months after its publication in the Journal of Laws. If the legislative process moves quickly, the new regulations could already apply in 2025. It’s a step forward toward building a more transparent job market and leveling the negotiation playing field for men and women.
Pay transparency is not only a response to social expectations, but also a tool that promotes fairness and openness in professional relationships. Is the Polish job market ready for this change? Time will tell!