How do you answer salary expectations

1. Provide a Range

If you don’t feel comfortable providing a single number, you may choose to offer a range instead. Keep in mind, however, that the employer may opt for the lower end of your range, so make sure your target number is as close to the bottom number as possible. Also, keep your range somewhat tight with a variance of no more than $5,000 to $10,000. Example: “I am seeking a position that pays between $75,000 and $80,000 annually.”

2. Include Negotiation Options

In addition to your salary, there may be other benefits, perks or forms of compensation you consider just as valuable. Including these as possible opportunities for negotiation is an option, too. For example, while the employer may not have budgeted enough for your ideal salary range, they may be willing to offer equity in the company to make the compensation package more attractive to you. Example: “I am seeking a position that pays between $75,000 and $80,000 annually but I am open to negotiate salary depending on benefits, bonuses, equity, stock options and other opportunities.”

3. Deflect the Question

If you’re still early in the hiring process and still learning the specifics about the job duties and expectations, you may want to deflect the question for later in the conversation. However, keep in mind you’ll still eventually have to discuss salary expectations. Either way, it’s a good idea to be prepared with a well-researched number in mind—even if you’re still factoring in additional information. Example: “Before I answer, I’d like to ask a few more questions to get a better idea of what the position entails. That way, I can provide a more realistic expectation.”

4. Aim High:

Once you know the average salary range for a position, consider padding your expectations. In most cases, employers are going to start you off at the lower end of the amount you provide. By aiming higher, you can make sure that, even if they offer the lowest number, you’ll still be making your target number. For example, if you want to make $45,000, don’t say you’re looking for a salary between $40,000 and $50,000. Instead, give a range of $45,000 to $50,000.

5. Think about your current salary.

Along with researching salaries, another way to come up with a salary range is to think of your current or previous salary, especially if you are making a lateral move in the same industry. Unless your last company was known in the industry for its low salaries, assume that your current salary is in line with market expectations. Of course, if you are making a geographic move, keep in mind any changes in the cost of living.

6. Give yourself a raise.

What if you believe it’s time for a raise? Think about what you would consider a fair raise from your current employer and that could be a good low-end starting point for the new job. Or ratchet up your current pay by as much as 15 to 20 percent, which gives you an incentive to switch companies and is still within a reasonable range for your industry and level of experience.

7. Only give numbers you’d be happy with.

Remember, only offer a range that you find acceptable and gives you the means to support yourself and your family if you have one.

8. Highlight your skills.

In your answer, you can subtly emphasize why you are a good fit for the position. You can say something like, “Based on my 10 years of experience in this field, I would expect a salary in the range of $Y to $Z.” Before mentioning any numbers, remind the interviewer why he or she should offer you a salary in the first place.

10. Explain Your Reasoning

While you don’t need to get too detailed in explaining how you arrived at your salary expectations, it doesn’t hurt to share why you’re giving the number. Highlighting your experience or educational level can add additional justification for your salary, especially if you’re aiming for the higher end of the local average. Just be careful not to overshoot the amount too much or you could be considered overqualified. Example: “The average salary for this position in this area for a professional with my level of experience is between $110,000 and $115,000, so that would be my salary expectation for this role.”