I recently got laid off from my role in SEO due to organizational restructuring, and now I'm facing challenges in salary negotiations for Senior SEO positions in Bangalore. With over 5 years of experience in SEO, primarily in B2B SaaS and product-based companies, I’ve started applying for Senior SEO and Lead SEO roles. However, I've noticed a concerning trend during my conversations with HR. When I mention my layoff, it seems to trigger a shift in their budget discussions, often leading to lower salary offers. It feels like my current unemployment status is being used against me, despite my skills and experience remaining unchanged. I'm trying to navigate this situation without downplaying my worth or hiding the truth about my layoff. I’m seeking advice from others who might have faced similar situations. Specifically, I’m contemplating whether to be upfront about my layoff during initial HR screenings, how to respond when they lower the budget after learning about my unemployment, and what a realistic CTC would be for someone with my experience in the Bangalore market. I’m also unsure whether to state my expected CTC upfront or ask for their budget first. I want to ensure that I negotiate fairly based on my experience and the value I can bring, rather than letting my layoff dictate my compensation expectations.