How to Answer – What’s Your Expected Salary? And What Not To Say

So, you’ve got a job interview coming up, and you know the dreaded question is going to come up: “What’s your expected salary?” When it comes to providing an answer, it can be tricky to navigate. On one hand, you don’t want to lowball yourself and undervalue your work. On the other hand, you don’t want to oversell yourself and ask for too much. But how do you provide a salary expectation answer that will impress hiring managers while also being realistic?

In this article, we’ll explore some tips and advice for answering the question, “What’s your expected salary?” We’ll also take a look at what not to say when discussing your salary expectations.

Discussing your Salary Expectations

When it comes to giving a salary expectation answer, you want to be honest and realistic. Think about what the job pays in the market and research the position as much as possible. For example, if you’re applying for a software engineer role, look up average salaries for that particular field in your area. This can give you some insight into what other companies are offering for similar roles.

What the Interviewer Wants to Know?

When an interviewer asks for your salary expectation, they are trying to gauge if you’re the right fit for the role and the company. They want to know if your expectations match up with what they can pay. More importantly, they want to know that you understand the value of your skillset and can articulate it through a salary range.

Why Salary Questions Are Tricky?

Salary questions can be tricky because there is no one-size-fits-all answer. You have to consider the market, the position, and yourself. When discussing salary expectations, it’s important to factor in your skillset, experience, qualifications, and any additional benefits you bring to the table. Moreover, you want to ensure that your salary range is within the average for that particular role.

Research the Market and Salary Trends

Before you can give a salary expectation answer, you need to do your research. Research the market and get an understanding of what other companies are paying for similar roles in that particular location. You can use sites like Glassdoor and PayScale to get an idea of what the average is for that role in your area.

Diplomatically Turn the Question Around

The best way to approach this question is to diplomatically turn it around. Instead of giving a specific number, provide a range that focuses on the value you bring to the position and company. For example, you could say something like, “I’m looking for a salary that reflects my experience and market value.” You can also add any additional benefits or perks you would like to receive as part of your package.

5 Examples of the Best Answers to the Salary Expectation Question

1. “I’m looking for a salary that reflects my experience and market value.”
2. “My salary expectations are in line with similar roles in this area.”
3. “I’m open to discussing a competitive salary based on my skillset and expertise.”
4. “My desired compensation range is between X-Y depending on additional benefits or perks offered as part of the package.”
5. “I’m confident that I can provide value to your team, and I am sure we can come to an agreement about the right remuneration package.”

Tips for Giving the Best Answers

When it comes to providing a salary expectation answer, there are a few tips and tricks you can use. Here are some of the best tips for giving the right response:

• Do your research – Research the market rate for similar roles in that particular location.
• Focus on value – Highlight the value you bring to the role and company rather than asking for an exact figure.
• Remain open – Be flexible and be willing to negotiate once you have secured the job.
• Don’t lowball yourself – Make sure your range is realistic and represents your experience and qualifications.
• Know what benefits negotiations are important – In addition to salary, think about additional benefits or perks that would be important to you.

What Not To Say

When discussing salary expectations, there are some things that you should avoid saying. For example:

• Don’t ask for too much – Overselling yourself can make the interviewer think that your expectations are unreasonable.
• Don’t lowball yourself – Undervaluing your work can make it seem like you don’t believe in yourself and your skill set.
• Avoid being too specific – It’s best to provide a range rather than an exact number so that there is room for negotiation.
• Don’t compare yourself to others – Comparing yourself to other applicants won’t help and can put the interviewer in an awkward position.
• Don’t bring up benefits negotiations too soon – Wait until you have secured the job before bringing up additional benefits or perks.

Conclusion

It’s important to be honest and realistic when discussing your salary expectations. Think about the value of your skillset, do your research, and remain open and flexible throughout the process. Make sure to focus on what you can bring to the role and company rather than asking for an exact figure. Use these tips, advice, and examples to help you provide a salary expectation answer that will impress hiring managers while also being realistic. Good luck!