I'm of the personal opinion that I work for money, my money. That's not what employers want to hear, however. So, as mentioned, there's a balance point. But I usually ask before we even waste time on the interview, at least for an expected range. It takes me time and effort to attend the interview, at least twice as much time as it takes the interviewer. Researching the company, getting to and from the location, etc etc.
If they don't understand I care about what they're willing to pay, I don't understand why they think I should care about their future profitability.
Never stop learning, even if it hurts. Ego bruises are practically mandatory as you learn unless you've never risked enough to make a mistake.
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