Prepare for the Salary Question in Interviews
The salary question can come up at any stage of the interview process, sometimes as early as the first screening call. Being unprepared for it puts you at a significant disadvantage. Knowing exactly what you will say and how you will say it means you handle this moment with confidence.
The salary question can come up at any stage of the interview process, sometimes as early as the first screening call. Being unprepared for it puts you at a significant disadvantage. Knowing exactly what you will say and how you will say it means you handle this moment with confidence.
Step by Step
Prepare your answer for "What are your salary expectations?" The best strategy depends on the stage of the process. Early in the process the goal is to avoid anchoring too low or pricing yourself out before they know your full value.
Early process response: "I am focused right now on finding the right role and company fit. Based on my research into market rates for this position and my experience level I am targeting a range of [your range]. I am open to discussing the full compensation package once we have both determined this is a strong mutual fit."
Later in the process when you have more leverage: "Based on my research and experience I am looking for a base salary in the range of [your range]. I am also interested in understanding the full compensation package including benefits and any performance incentives."
Prepare for "What are you currently making?" In many places this question is now illegal but it still comes up. You are not obligated to answer it. A professional redirect: "I prefer to focus on the market rate for this role rather than my previous compensation. Based on my research I am targeting [your range]."
Practice both responses out loud Say them until they sound natural and confident. Hesitation or uncertainty in your voice when discussing salary is the most common negotiation mistake.
Tips for success
Never give a single number when asked for salary expectations. Always give a range with your target at the lower end so the employer focuses on the higher numbers.
The person who names a number first is often at a disadvantage. If possible redirect the question until you have a better sense of the role's full value.
Whoever mentions a number first in a negotiation often ends up worse off. Try to get the employer to reveal their budget first.