What are your salary expectations for this role?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
How to Answer
Answer Example

This question is a test to see how realistic your expectations are. A realistic metric should be based on your level of experience and your current earnings, contrasted with the industry-standard pay rate. How well you've performed in the interview so far, and your self-awareness in this regard, are likewise components to consider. An employer's market versus a job seeker's market can also influence this number. How you quantify your answer will likewise justify your perceived self-worth. This is where you'll show your hand, your self-perceived value yourself, and how realistic your expectations are.

This question can come up anywhere in the interview, but it more commonly comes towards the end. It's never a good idea for the person being interviewed to bring up pay too early on. But once the interviewer addresses it, it's fair game. A good question to ask when quantifying your number is how frequently pay increases occur, and how their pay structure works. Whether it's salary or hourly, likewise holds weight. You can also ask, to ensure you are coming up with a fair number, what other benefits are offered with the position. Health benefits cost an employer money and should be considered when coming up with your number, as well as any incentives, bonuses, or other perks.

"I've already put some thought into this. I understand the median pay rate for this position comes in at 'XYZ'. My last position paid me 'ABC'. Well aware of my experience and what I'd bring to the table, I have a couple of questions before I answer. Would you mind revealing what benefits, incentives, bonuses, or other perks come with this position? I feel as if I should fairly weigh those considerations before giving you a thoughtful answer to your question."

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How to Answer: What are your salary expectations for this role?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a General Motors job interview.

29. What are your salary expectations for this role?

Why the Interviewer Asks This Question

This question is a test to see how realistic your expectations are. A realistic metric should be based on your level of experience and your current earnings, contrasted with the industry-standard pay rate. How well you've performed in the interview so far, and your self-awareness in this regard, are likewise components to consider. An employer's market versus a job seeker's market can also influence this number. How you quantify your answer will likewise justify your perceived self-worth. This is where you'll show your hand, your self-perceived value yourself, and how realistic your expectations are.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 28th, 2022

How to Answer

This question can come up anywhere in the interview, but it more commonly comes towards the end. It's never a good idea for the person being interviewed to bring up pay too early on. But once the interviewer addresses it, it's fair game. A good question to ask when quantifying your number is how frequently pay increases occur, and how their pay structure works. Whether it's salary or hourly, likewise holds weight. You can also ask, to ensure you are coming up with a fair number, what other benefits are offered with the position. Health benefits cost an employer money and should be considered when coming up with your number, as well as any incentives, bonuses, or other perks.

Written by Kevin Downey on April 28th, 2022

Answer Example

"I've already put some thought into this. I understand the median pay rate for this position comes in at 'XYZ'. My last position paid me 'ABC'. Well aware of my experience and what I'd bring to the table, I have a couple of questions before I answer. Would you mind revealing what benefits, incentives, bonuses, or other perks come with this position? I feel as if I should fairly weigh those considerations before giving you a thoughtful answer to your question."

Written by Kevin Downey on April 28th, 2022

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