Talking about salary can be intimidating. But don’t worry—you can tackle it with the right approach and preparation. Let’s walk through how to answer that tricky salary expectation question like a pro.
Why Do Employers Ask About Salary Expectations?
Employers ask this to avoid mismatches. If they’re budgeting $50,000 for a role and you’re expecting $80,000, it’s better to know early. It also shows how well you’ve done your homework on the industry and the role. If you respond with confidence, you’ll leave a strong impression, showing you’re prepared for negotiation.
4 Steps to Figure Out Your Ideal Salary
Before you walk into that interview, be sure you’re armed with the facts. Here’s how to do it:
- Research Salary Ranges for the Role
Use resources like salary comparison sites to get a solid sense of what people in similar roles are earning. Consider your experience level and location, too. - Look at Industry Standards
Your industry matters. For example, if you’re in financial services, aim for the higher end of the range. If you’re in a nonprofit sector, you might need to adjust your expectations accordingly. - Evaluate Your Skills and Experience Honestly
Think about what sets you apart. Do you have unique skills like speaking a second language or experience in a highly specialized area? These can influence where you fall within the salary range. - Know Your Non-Negotiables
Have a clear idea of what you need in terms of salary to be satisfied, and what you’re willing to walk away from. This gives you a framework for answering the question with confidence.
Answering the Question
Once you’ve done your research, you’ll be ready for the salary conversation. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Delay the Discussion
It’s usually best to avoid discussing salary early in the interview process. You can say something like, “I’d prefer to learn more about the role before we discuss salary. I’m sure we can find a number that works for both of us if this is a good fit.”
2. Get Them to Go First
If they push for an answer, try asking what range they’ve budgeted for the position. This way, you’ll know if you’re aligned before diving too deep into negotiations. You could say, “I’d like to hear what salary range you have in mind to make sure we’re on the same page.”
3. Avoid Sharing Your Current Salary
If possible, don’t disclose your current salary. It can lock you into a lower number than you’re aiming for, especially if you’re making a career change.
4. Use a Range Instead of a Number
If you have to give a number, offer a range. For example, if you’re aiming for $80,000, you could say you’d be happy with $85,000 to $90,000. This keeps the conversation open and shows you’re flexible, but still aiming high.
Example Responses
- Deferring the Answer:
“I’m really excited about the role, and after learning more, I can share a salary range that fits. What range do you have budgeted for this role?” - Highlighting Experience:
“I have a salary range in mind based on my research and experience. With over 10 years in the field, I’d prefer to discuss specifics once I know more about the job’s demands.” - Revisiting the Range Later:
“I respect the range you’ve shared, but given the responsibilities and my skillset, I’d like to consider $XX as a starting salary. I’m confident I can meet the demands you’ve described.” - Mind the Pay Gap:
“Many candidates, especially women, tend to undersell themselves by disclosing past salaries. I’m looking for compensation that matches the responsibilities of this role and is on par with others in the market.”
You can’t completely eliminate the stress of discussing salary, but with the right preparation, you can feel confident. Use these strategies to maintain a positive relationship with your potential employer while advocating for the pay you deserve.
