Somewhere in the interview process, we all find it difficult to answer “What are your salary expectations?” This question might make many of us panic. None of us want to get ourselves out of jobs by saying something too high nor do we desire to price ourselves too low that is not up to the mark of what we deserve. We also fear the judgment of the interviewer because of our financial choices.
During an interview, we are trying to prove ourselves ideal for the role. But, we never know what our interviewer expects and thinks about us. One of the most awkward and common interview questions is, what are your salary expectations?
Even if you are confident about your desired compensation still you may struggle to answer this question. Additionally, it could be more difficult if you are interviewing for your first job or if you are a fresh graduate who is in the early stages of a career.
In this blog, we will discuss why this question is asked and explore different ways to answer this question sensibly. Additionally, we will also look at some dos and don’ts that are essential to keep in mind to discussing salary expectations with an employer.
Why Do Employers Ask About Salary Expectations?
1. Trying To Understand Your Value
They are trying to understand you and your value. The most crucial element in preparing for an interview is to evaluate the market and think out how you compare with other competitive candidates. This will help you in understanding what people are earning at your level. If you fail to answer this question satisfactorily, the employer will imagine you haven’t done your homework properly. Also, your CV plays an important role in making your job secure. Try to make your resume as professional as you can because it will reflect how serious you are regarding this job role and your career. You can also ask for a CV writing service from reputable service providers to compose a top-notch resume.
2. Gauging Your Seniority
If you asked for a salary that is too high than the other candidates they have interviewed it will indicate that you are extremely experienced for the role.
3. Trying To Know If They Can Afford You
Every hiring committee has some budget in mind which assists them in deciding if they can afford you. If candidates ask for higher salaries they might reconsider the job role or ask for a higher budget.
Effective Tips To Answer Salary Expectations Question
If you research the salaries and experience level for the role you are applying to you can have informative and productive conversations about compensation with the employer. Below are some effective tips that will assist you in responding to the question “What are your salary expectations”?
· Divert The Question
If you are still in the early stages of the hiring process and trying to figure out the job expectations and duties then it’s better to divert the question for later discussion. Remember, before the hiring manager offers you a formal letter they will ask about salary to gather all the details. But, still, if you want to delay the answer you could ask:
Before answering the question I would like to ask a few things to get a better idea of what the job role demands. In this way, I can provide you with a realistic salary expectation.
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· Consider Total Compensation
Most of the organizations offer extra perks and benefits in the form of compensation that you can consider. It’s better to know about other opportunities before negotiating your salary. Employers might not offer you your desired salary but they may have some attractive packages which will compensate for your desired salary. For Example: You could say “I am okay to consider your offered salary, including all your bonus, equity, and other options.
· Provide Your Desired Salary Range
If you end up to the point where you have to offer a number for your compensation, the job application form writers recommend that it’s better to offer a range. One thing you need to consider when offering a range is that an employer may agree on the lowest salary range that you have offered. So, make sure your desired salary lies in the bottom range. For example: If you want your salary to be 60$ then offer a range between 60$ to 80$.
Tips And Tricks For Negotiating Salary
Discussing salary might be an uncomfortable topic for many. Especially for those who don’t have good knowledge of how to deal with this question. For your assistance we have provided some crucial points below that will help you in taking the conversation smoothly.
| TO “DO” | TO “AVOID” |
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1. Don’t accept quickly: It is better not to commit too early. In this way, you can accelerate your leverage later. |
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2. Don’t offer exact figures: If you offer an exact number of figures it will indicate that you are not open to any negotiation. |
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3. Don’t go unprepared: It is crucial to research and prepare your answers before the interview. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best answer to the salary expectation question?
To get your desired pay it is best to offer a range that targets your specific salary. Offering a range of salaries will give room to negotiate and at the same time will help to meet realistic expectations.
How to discuss salary expectations?
- Search for the salary ranges in your applied field.
- Ask people who are working in similar roles.
- Consider the pay that you require to meet your expenses.
- Consider other benefits and opportunities of the company.
- Wait for the right time to discuss the salary expectations.
How can I ask about my salary in the interview?
There are different ways to ask for the offered salary in an interview.
- I am thrilled to know what you will offer me for my dream job.
- The role perfectly aligns with my dream job what will you offer me for it?
Let Us Conclude This
So, in this blog, we understand how we can answer this crucial question of an interview. Let us wrap up this by reviewing a few points.
Study The Market: If you want to improve your interview it is necessary to study the market. This will help you learn about the positions and competitive salaries other people are getting paid by their companies.
Consider Your Compensation: It would be best to keep your bills and other expenses in mind before appearing for an interview. This will assist you in accepting the salary which will cope with all of these expenses.
Prepare To Negotiate: Be ready to negotiate because employers expect employees to come up with strong defenses when they ask “What are your salary expectations”?
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