What kind of salary are you looking for?
This is often a tricky question to navigate. Consider this question an opportunity to showcase your merits and work style, increasing your professional worth by evaluating this problematic question from every angle and displaying outside-of-the-box thinking while being resourceful. Perform research to determine their salary range. Figure in any perks you receive that lower your cost of living, such as your current salary, bonuses, benefits, etc. Consider how frequently you receive pay raises so you can project your estimated worth at its current rate. This will inform them what they have to compete with, as well as any other offers of employment.
"I'm looking for compensation in line with my qualifications and experience. Currently, at XYZ, I earn a salary of 105,000, receive pay increases twice a year at a 10% increase, and get a yearly bonus of 1500. In addition, I get commuter perks, a generous health/dental/vision plan, equal contributions to a retirement mutual fund, and stock options. With my recently completed graduate degree and six years of experience at (XYZ) company, competing salaries for my experience level are estimated between 120,000 - 130,000. Two other job offers have come in that range, but I have been looking forward to this interview with Square, as working here is at the top of my list and most in line with my career goals."
"According to the current job market, someone with my degree and experience is typically valued at a salary range of 85,000 to 95,000. However, in looking at the increased rate of worth with accumulated experience, that number rises, which begs a few questions. How frequently are performance reviews and pay increases distributed on average, and are those restrictive or distributed on merit? What benefits, bonuses, and other perks are offered with this position that would allow adjustment to those figures?"
As they state on their website, 'We believe in being fair and square. We're building an inclusive economy where all sellers have equal access to opportunity. We strive to live by these same values in all our workplaces.' Since they are looking for employees who embrace their values and ideology, you must also consider this when discussing salary. Try to learn what their salary range is. Remember, posting a job opportunity, interviewing, performing background checks, hiring, and onboarding are expensive endeavors. Not all the funds they earn are profit, and every department has a budget. So make sure the figure is fair and considerate of all parties. You don't want to sell yourself short, but you don't want to come across as inconsiderate either.
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