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What Are Your Salary Expectations? Answers and Tips

Confused about what to answer when asked about your salary expectations? Learn tips and answers to the common salary expectation interview question.

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Confused about what to answer when asked about your salary expectations? Learn tips and answers to the common salary expectation interview question.

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When you are interviewing for a job, one of the most commonly asked interview questions is “What is your salary expectation?” It’s a tricky question and one that can be hard to answer.

On one hand, you want to get the highest salary you can, but on the other hand, you don’t want to price yourself out of a job. In this article, I will discuss how to answer the salary expectation question and provide some tips to help you find the most suitable salary for your new job.

Here is how to answer this question in a way that feels genuine and confident.

 

Understand what employers want to know

When employers ask you what your salary expectation is, they’re looking to learn more about your overall financial expectations. Though the question may seem direct, the answer you provide helps the employer determine the following: 

  • How your earnings expectations align with the company's financial reality

  • How you would like to be compensated for your work

It’s also important to remember that employers are looking for candidates who have done their research and know their worth in relation to the job. Having an understanding of current market trends and projected salaries can help you tailor your response and make sure it is both honest and fair. Knowing how much money you would like to make is okay as long as you can be realistic about what is achievable.

 

Research salary ranges before your interview

When you are going into an interview, it can be hard to know what the right salary expectation should be. Employers will often ask you what your salary expectation is, and if you don't do your research beforehand, you may end up with a number that is too low, or too high.

To make sure that doesn't happen, it's important to take the time to research salary ranges for the type of job you are interviewing for. Companies tend to have general salary ranges they adhere to, and knowing this range can give you an idea of what is reasonable when it comes time to discuss your salary with the employer.

Take some time to look at industry-specific websites or even job postings for similar positions. They can give you a rough estimate of how much employers are willing to pay for certain roles. That way, during your interview when the employer asks about your salary expectations, you'll be able to provide a reasonable number that reflects both the industry standard and your own value.

 

Be flexible and honest

When it comes right down to it, be open and honest about your salary expectation — but remember that it’s not just about money. Think about the bigger picture, for instance, if they offer extra vacation time, or have great policies around flexible hours — factor those into your response as well.

 

Read also: Salary Negotiation Tips and What You Should Focus On

 

Highlight your value

No matter how much research you have done on average salaries, always remember: You have something unique to offer that brought you into this interview in the first place. Make sure you highlight why your skills make you invaluable. This will not only help remind them of why they wanted to interview you in the first place—it will also show them that although money matters, it’s far from your main motivator for taking the job.

 

Don't get attached

Remember that there are often other factors at play when it comes to setting salaries — like budgets and equity considerations. So don’t take it personally if your desired rate isn't something that can be achieved immediately. It's ok if things don't work out: sometimes all parties just need more time or information before making a decision. That’s why it’s important to leave room for negotiation so that everyone feels comfortable coming back to the table at a later date if necessary.

 

Read also: 5 Professional Ways to Gracefully Deal With Job Rejection and Figure Out Your Next Move Fast

 

Consider your experience

Before setting your salary expectation, take a moment to consider your experience and skill level. If you're going into a new role, be sure to factor in any training costs for which you may be responsible. If you’re more experienced, try to set yourself up for success by asking for an appropriate amount.

 

Conclusion

When asked about your salary expectation in an interview, it’s important to think through your answer carefully and do your best to remain enthusiastic and confident in your response. Be prepared to provide information and evidence to support your desired salary and any additional benefits you’re seeking.

At the end of the day, your salary expectation should be in line with the market and what’s fair and reasonable given your experience and the role you’re interviewing for. Knowing how to respond to this question is key to getting the salary negotiations and securing a job you’ll love.

Written by

Phil Ibsen

Phill Ibsen is a creative writer, scriptwriter and a storyteller who believes in telling the story as it is and not as it should be. He is the founder of Master of Descriptions, a production company which aims in showcasing authentic stories. He’s also an affiliate writer at the Writers Guild.


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