When you’re asked, “What is your expected salary?” it’s not a trick question—it’s a real one. And the answer to that question depends on who you are, what you do, and how much money you want to make.
Do you know how to answer the question “what is your expected salary?” If you’re like most people, you’ll probably say something along the lines of “I don’t know.”
And that’s fine. Nobody expects you to have an exact number in mind. But if you want to make yourself look like a confident, competent candidate for this position, we have provided some tips on how to answer this salary expectation question with grace and class.
How to Answer “What is your expected salary?”
If you’re looking to switch careers and you get invited to an interview, the fact is that you’ll be asked the question, “What is your expected salary?” There’s no running away from the expected salary interview question. So, how do you answer it? Let’s find out.
- Firstly, you’ll need to do your research. This means using tools that give you an estimate of what others in a similar role are receiving. With this, you won’t make mere assumptions and disappoint yourself or your employer.
- Use your network. Ask someone who knows about salaries at their company what they think your expected salary should be. You can also look up job ads on their website or LinkedIn page and see what other people have been paid in similar roles.
- Be honest. If they ask you the expected salary interview question, tell them honestly—but don’t give them specifics unless they ask specifically for that information.
How to Answer “What is your expected salary?” as a Fresh Graduate
If you’re a recent graduate, you might not have even landed a job yet. But before you start looking for one, it’s important to know what you can expect in salary.
When you’re first starting, it’s pretty common for people to ask you what your expected salary is. This is a question that can make or break your career, so you want to make sure that you’re prepared for it.
The first thing you need to do is find out what the average salary for the position is in your area. Then, you can tell the employer how much more or less than that amount you want to be making. Make sure that any number you put down is realistic—if it’s too high, they’ll think you’re unrealistic; if it’s too low, they’ll think you’re unrealistic.
You might also want to include what kind of benefits (if any) are included in your salary package and how many hours per week they expect from you. In giving your answer, you should rather provide a range than an exact amount. This will help you stay in between instead of too high or too low.
“What is your salary expectation?” Sample Answer
To help you craft your answer properly, we have provided a “what is your salary expectation?” sample answer:
“Thank you for this opportunity. From what I have researched so far, I believe my salary range will fall somewhere between $[expected minimum range] — $[expected maximum range].”
It’s far beyond rare that the question, “what is your expected salary” won’t be asked during an interview. Even before the interview, job seekers are asked. Figuring out what to say is very important.