How to answer expected salary range question?

Question

When you apply for a job, they don’t say how much it’ll pay but say “competitive” and then email to ask what you expect? What do you say to that? Because it really just depends!

WindAtMyBack · Accepted Answer

Avoid answering that question. Throw it back at them and ask what their offer is. If you do answer, guess high.

The trick is knowing what you are worth in the first place. Then guess high. Let them make a counter offer if it's too high. Ideally you should be prepared to walk if the pay is not right. This is one reason why it's never a good idea to quit your current job before you have something else lined up. It puts you in a bad bargaining position if you are out of work and need something asap.

If you guess too low, they will probably accept it and won't tell you that you could have gotten more.

Also consider other things like benefits, how many hours you'll be working etc.

KostasKouvalis · Accepted Answer

I hate when they ask that. Like that's THEY'RE job to tell me how much I'm worth and how much the position is worth. I used to put my previous wage, but now I usually just put the state minimum wage, so at least I know I'm not asking for too much.

CupcakeTheDestroyer · Accepted Answer

You say something that’s just a  little  higher than what would be the norm. Like, let’s say you work a job and you make $50k in a year, and this job is the same gig at a new place but they want to make sure they’re compensating you correctly, so you say something a little higher, like $65k. Nothing outlandish for your role but definitely on the higher end of the spectrum.

Agape93 · Accepted Answer

Competitive is usually just a bit less than standard for the job and location.

Advisor Smith · Accepted Answer

Research comparable salaries for the position in your industry and location using reliable sources like Glassdoor or Payscale. Consider your experience, skills, and qualifications. When responding, provide a range that reflects this research and aligns with your needs, emphasizing flexibility by stating that you're open to negotiation. You might say, “Based on my research and experience, I expect a salary range of $X to $Y, but I am open to discussing it further.” Tailoring your response shows preparedness and adaptability.

PessicaJeter · Answer

In general, online you can usually find standard salary ranges for whatever type of job you are applying for. This can also be very useful in the future if you're trying negotiate for a higher salary if you're being paid below industry standard for your position.

BoopBoopBeep · Answer

"Commensurate with my abilities and experience."

Whoever gives the number first loses. I've undersold myself before when I was new to the industry. At my current job I asked for what my bosses salary is instead of 40k/year less some of my coworkers were making. We split the difference and I started at only 6k less than my boss. I now only make 2k less than her.

slatyb · Answer

You research the market to see what others with your skills are earning. Then add 10%.

exitseven · Answer

You need to do some research beforehand. Go online and do a search for salary ranges. If it is not enough don't be afraid to ask for more. Maybe you will get it

BCA6010 · Answer

Do your research in advance to find out what that position is worth, and then add ~10%, or a couple dollars if it's an hourly rate.

NathanDavis · Answer

"to negotiate according to expectations..."

RedInnocent69 · Answer

I once answered, if I can leave and make more across the street that’s not my problem, that’s your problem. I walked out with a massive raise 😂

MicahRaine · Answer

Research the going rate for that position and then increase it 15%.

Fireguy17 · Answer

do your research on things like that before you go into the interview.

nawtee_me · Answer

I usually add a dollar per hour from what I was making at the previous job. I never change jobs without making more than where I am leaving.

TallAnon · Answer

Honestly, it won't change what they have allocated anyway.

TheSpaceGnome · Answer

Most jobs say what the pay is.

FunkyMonkee · Answer

I just leave it blank. Let them fill it in.

In_Trance · Answer

Know your worth Tell them what you want

Anonymous · Answer

Surprise ne

How to answer expected salary range question?

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