What are your salary expectations?
This question is more commonly delivered towards the end of an interview. It not only evaluates your expectations, but your self-awareness as well. How you answer stands to reveal your self-awareness of how the interview has gone so far, and how much of a professional you are. It stands to reveal how value yourself and how realistic your expectations are. Transparency is the best path when salary-based questions arise. Yet revealing how you've calibrated your suggested salary could serve as a strong performance indicator. Use your current earnings as a base-line. Contrast your current pay rate with where you stand on your career trajectory. Take into consideration bonuses and incentives. You could even factor in your commute, the job market climate, and any benefits, such as medical/vision/dental. Be open, realistic, honest, and open to negotiation.
"Currently, I earn a base salary of 45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were 52,000 and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
"I am currently making 100,000 per year with two bonus opportunities. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides opportunity for growth."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I am currently making about 160k for total compensation. I am looking for something in that range and provides an opportunity for growth.
Stephanie's Feedback
Compensation is always a tricky question! You don't want to risk leaving money on the table if the company is actually to pay significantly more than you're currently making, but you also don't want to be eliminated from consideration for asking for too much. My suggestion is to always pose the question back, instead of directly answering it. (Example: "I have X years of experience and I am seeking compensation in line with the going market rate for this position; are you able to share the compensation range you have in mind?") If they press you for a number, I suggest giving a range, preferably a bit higher than what you're making now. (For example: "I am seeking compensation in the 160K-180K range; can you share if that works within your budget for this role?")
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