How would you prefer to be compensated? (+5 Examples)

How to Answer

The interviewer would like to know what type of compensation structure makes you the most comfortable. Are you looking for a compensation structure based primarily on salary, commission, or a blend of both? Maybe additional perks are more critical for you, such as vacation time, flex days, a health spending account, a generous medical plan, pension, shares, RRSP matching, car allowance, cell phone allowance, expense account, and more! Discuss with the hiring manager how you would prefer to be compensated but be sure not to pigeonhole yourself. Freely ask the interviewer what they offer, if you are unsure.

Professional Answer Examples

General
Answer example

"I am currently compensated primarily on a base salary with the opportunity to earn a quarterly bonus based on the company's profits. I am certainly open to hearing more about your compensation structure as I know every company is unique."

Admin
Answer example

"I prefer a base salary, however, if there is a lot of overtime in this role I am certainly open to discussing options such as an hourly rate plus time and a half for any work over 44 hours. What type of compensation structure do you prefer to offer for this particular position?"

Manager
Answer example

"I am currently making a strong base salary with a bonus incentive on a quarterly and annual basis. I would like to continue down that path but am open to exploring other compensation components such as commission, etc."

Marketing
Answer example

"I am currently compensated on a percentage of each project I complete, along with the odd bonus. It is lucrative but sometimes hard to track. I do prefer to know what is coming to me on a monthly basis and am open to discussing a variety of compensation structures."

Retail
Answer example

"I am currently paid on an hourly basis, with opportunity for overtime - which I like. Some commission earnings would be nice. Could you share with me what you offer here?"

Sales
Answer example

"I prefer to be compensated on a big commission basis so that I can determine how big my paycheck is! I am a go-getter, and much prefer to know that my efforts are attached to a financial reward. I understand you have a solid commission plan in place. Could you share a few details with me?"

Written by:

Ryan Brown

Ryan Brown, is the creator of MockQuestions. He has over ten years experience creating interview questions. His website has helped over 10 million job seekers in their interview preparation.

Rachelle Enns

Rachelle Enns is a job search expert, executive headhunter, career catalyst, and interview coach. Utilized by top talent from Fortune companies like Microsoft, General Electric, and Nestle, she helps professionals position themselves in today's competitive digital marketplace. Rachelle founded Renovate My Resume and Executive Resume Solutions, two companies focused on helping job seekers get their edge back. She helps everyone from new graduates looking for their first placement, to CEO's who want more out of their career. Rachelle coaches students to executives on how to master the toughest interview questions and how to handle the most bizarre interview situations; all with confidence and poise. Rachelle trains other career coaches, recruiters, and resume writers, globally. A big part of her job is also spent coaching HR professionals on how to bring the human touch back into their interview and hiring process.

First written on: 01/10/2017
Last modified on: 06/29/2018

How would you prefer to be compensated?

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