How to address salary expectations during an interview
Talking about your salary expectations during a job interview can be uncomfortable but is an important and unavoidable step for aligning mutual expectations.
In a time when the majority of job seekers try and avoid the dreaded salary talk in a job interview, it’s helpful to know how to answer the question of salary expectation when it inevitably comes up.
Why employers inquire about salary expectations
Employers ask about salary expectations for a couple of reasons. First, they do it to determine whether your expectations align with their budget.
Second, giving a salary range shows how much you value your personal experience and skillset and gives them an idea if you believe you can be the asset they’re looking for.
Preparing an answer to salary expectations
To prepare your best response to the age-old salary question, here’s four things you can do before an interview to prepare and have a reasonable answer ready.
1. Research salary ranges
Investigate industry standards, company-specific salary data, and regional cost of living. Together, this information will give you a solid idea of where you can expect your salary to land and what’s appropriate to ask for when mentioned.
2. Know your worth
Be confident in yourself. Think back to your accomplishments, understand the skills you possess (especially if they’re unique), and don’t sell yourself short. You should be compensated for the unique skillset and experience you bring to the table.
3. Practice your response
Role-play various scenarios with a friend or mentor to build confidence and reduce anxiety about discussing salary. This will allow you to be more comfortable when you have that conversation.
4. Timing is key
Ideally, discuss salary expectations in the later stages of the interview process or when the employer brings it up. It’s not recommended to bring it up yourself in a first interview, so if the employer doesn’t start that conversation, it may be best to wait until the second round.
Doing these things can help you avoid selling yourself short and prevent you from stating an unrealistic salary range that can disqualify you from the interview process.
Crafting your answer
1. Be direct but tactful
Clearly state your expectations respectfully and professionally while considering the company’s budget.
2. Use a salary range
Provide a range instead of a fixed number to allow room for negotiation. Typically, a $10,000 range is a good scope.
3. Justify your range
Explain your range with solid reasoning! Touch on the research you did prior to the meeting, address cost of living, company-specific salaries, industry standards, etc. This will set you up nicely in case you end up needing to negotiate.
4. Consider the entire package
Salary isn’t the only thing up for negotiation. Discuss other compensation elements like benefits, perks, and professional development opportunities, which also contribute to overall job satisfaction.
Handling offers and counteroffers
Your job salary expectation might not match what the employer is prepared to offer. In this case, it’s appropriate to negotiate. Do all you can to get the best offer for you.
1. Evaluate offers
Assess the complete compensation package, including base salary, bonuses, and benefits, to ensure it meets your needs. If it doesn’t, understand what is missing, and what would need to change for you to accept an offer.
2. Negotiate effectively
Advocate for a higher salary or better terms while maintaining a professional attitude and be open to compromise.
3. Respond to counteroffers
Address counteroffers constructively, justifying your initial range while remaining open to negotiation.
4. Gracefully handle the rejection
If the employer cannot meet your expectations, thank them for their time and decide if the role aligns with your long-term career goals.
Sample responses
- “Based on my research and experience in this industry, I am seeking a salary range of $80,000 to $90,000, reflecting my skills and the value I bring.”
- “Given the role’s responsibilities and my background, I am looking for a salary range between $60,000 and $70,000, which aligns with the industry standards.”
- “Considering my expertise and research on average salaries in this region, I expect a salary between $75,000 and $85,000.”
Approaching salary discussions prepared and confident ensures clear communication and helps secure a fair compensation package, contributing to your job satisfaction and career growth.
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