At times, the “What are your salary expectations” question also lets the hiring manager gauge your attitude. Depending on how you respond, they’ll learn a lot about your mindset. Also, it’s important to remember that this article is focused on how to answer the salary expectation interview question (usually asked at the beginning of the hiring process).
How To Answer ‘What Are Your Salary Expectations?’ in an Interview (14 Tips)
Make use of websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and Indeed to get an idea of the salary range. Ensure you’re aware of your own value and experience, so you can confidently answer the salary question when it arises. “Based on my skills, experience, and market research, I’m currently seeking a salary in the $X to $Y range. However, I’m open to discussion based on the specific responsibilities and total compensation package.” “Have proof to back it up to say why you’re worth it,” Vicki Salemi told Investopedia.
Some job seekers prefer to give a reasonable salary range to keep further negotiations open. “In certain high-stakes negotiations, that could be a really strong tactic,” Eonnet says. “But it’s very, very risky.” If you’re not completely confident in your justification, or can’t afford to miss out on this role due to salary demands, she suggests instead offering up a smaller range for the company to work with. Once the interviewer answers your question, they’ll expect you to say if the salary works for you.
It put me in an awkward situation because according to company policy, I needed to stick to this offer. Shin Yang is a growth strategist at Sensei AI, focusing on SEO optimization, market expansion, and customer support. He uses his expertise in digital marketing to improve visibility and user engagement, helping job seekers make the most of Sensei AI’s real-time interview assistance. His work ensures that candidates have a smoother experience navigating the job application process. “I understand compensation is important. Based on my research and experience, I’m targeting something in the $80–$90K range, but I’m open to a broader discussion based on the full package and role expectations.” “I’m looking for a total compensation package around $180,000 that reflects the strategic nature and impact level of this role. I’m confident this aligns with the market and the responsibilities discussed.”
- Get the final agreement in writing to ensure all parties have the same understanding.
- You can also visit our advice blog for more winning interview tips.
- Answering expected salary is not a tight question that can only be answered in limited ways.
- You should mention your full name, educational background, skills, and experience.
- Understanding these motivations helps you prepare a response that addresses employers’ concerns while protecting your interests.
Before The Muse, Regina was an editor for InvestorPlace, where she also wrote about topics such as investing and biotech companies. She holds a BA in English language and literature from the University of Maryland and an MFA in creative writing from American University. Typically, responding to questions about salary with a single number limits your ability to make something work with the company, Crawford says.
How do you answer, “What is your current salary?”
When asked for your salary expectations, know that the company is trying to understand if their budget fits what you are looking for and/or is trying to set a salary negotiation anchor. Ensure this range accounts for the full compensation package, including benefits, bonuses, stock options, and paid time off. Always anchor your minimum salary within a range that doesn’t undersell your worth or overshoot the employer’s budget. Utilize this information to leverage your position during the negotiation process. Remember, the more informed you are about what others in your field with similar qualifications earn, the more confidently you can engage in discussions about your own salary expectations.
Even if you have a baseline, keep your delivery open and professional. Once you’ve done your research, offering a realistic range shows that you’re prepared and reasonable. Because by now, you must’ve talked extensively about expectations from both sides. Just make sure to once again back up your answer by mentioning what you bring to the table. Some individuals have a successful career, and although they are entertaining the idea of employment elsewhere, they may not need it.
To start your all-essential pre-interview research, explore the 2025 Salary Guide today or visit the Salary Calculator. You can also visit how to answer what are your salary expectations our advice blog for more winning interview tips. Remember, in lots of places, you don’t have to answer that question, and it’s even illegal to ask.
Situation 1: You’re out of work and you need this job.
- As you place the first offer lower than the market rate, the employer would continue the discussion with the number that you offered.
- Start off on the right foot when asking for a raise by knowing how to ask and when and where to make the request.
- It’s important to know that salary and compensation refer to two different things.
These perks add up and can sometimes be easier for companies to offer than a higher base salary. To sum it all up, it’s practically impossible to avoid the “what are your salary expectations” question, no matter how uncomfortable it can make us feel. Crafting the perfect answer for the “what are your salary expectations” question is an alchemy, and even the most confident speakers can easily misstep. You can also answer “what are your salary expectations” by redirecting the question back to the hiring manager.
By using that strategy, your responses have more weight, and that works in your favor. If you aren’t comfortable with a single number, you can also present a range. However, if you go that route, you are injecting the lower number into the discussion along with a higher figure.