Master 35 Academic Dean interview questions covering strategic leadership, faculty relations, and accreditation.
Question 26 of 35
Example Answer
Entry Level
Experienced
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Community Answers

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"Currently, I earn a base salary of 75,000 per year plus a potential annual bonus and benefits. Last year my earnings were 82,000. I want to stay in the same range or slightly higher, including the benefits package mentioned in your job posting."

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"As I am newer to my career as a dean, I would like to be offered a fair salary that reflects my recent education. I am most concerned with joining an organization that will help me to grow my career as an academic dean, which I can see doing with your university. That said. I would like to make the starting salary as noted on your job announcement."

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
"I am currently making 103,000 per year with an additional comprehensive benefits package on top of that. I am looking for compensation aligned with my current earnings and which provides an opportunity for growth."

Krista Wenz has been on thousands of interview panels hiring EMS professionals and firefighters for public and private agencies.
The interviewer asks about your salary expectations to better understand them and see if they align with the institution's budget. It can also help them determine if you are a good fit for the position and if they can meet your expectations. It's important to be honest about your salary requirements while also being open to negotiation. Remember, the interview is a two-way conversation, and it's essential for both parties to feel comfortable with the compensation offered.
When discussing salary expectations, it's essential to approach the topic carefully. You want to communicate your value while also being realistic. One effective way to respond is to research the average salary range for an academic dean in your region and then offer a range that aligns with that information. For example, 'Based on my research, I understand the average salary for this role in the area is between X and Y. I would be comfortable with a salary within that range, depending on the specific responsibilities and benefits offered.' It's also important to consider other aspects of the compensation package, such as health benefits, retirement plans, and vacation time. Be confident and transparent in your response while demonstrating you have done your homework.

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Anonymous Answer
I would want a minimum of 77,000.

Rachelle's Feedback
Try qualifying the ask with a bit more background, and avoid giving the interviewer your bottom line right away. I have added a sample below.
"I would like to earn above where I am now, given the added responsibilities and larger student population in this role. Currently, I earn 77,000 per year plus benefits."
Anonymous Answer
What is outlined in your advertisement meets my salary expectations. Given my experience, I would like to be considered at the higher end of that range.

Cindy's Feedback
Great. Good to leave some flexibility while giving the interviewer something to work with.
Anonymous Answer
I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role of a Dean and an opportunity for growth.

Stephanie's Feedback
The question about salary expectations is always a tough one, especially if you're in the early stages of an interview process. However, I would suggest that you provide a bit more detail on the skills you bring to the table, years of experience, etc., and be prepared to be pushed a bit on sharing an actual number. (After all "compensation that aligns with the role" is a bit vague.) I always suggested suggesting a range, rather than an exact number. I have provided an example in the "Revised Answer" box to show how this response might be updated.
I bring an advanced degree and ________ years of professional experience to the role, so I am seeking compensation that is commensurate with my years of experience and aligns with the role of a Dean. I am happy to discuss this in more depth, should I move forward in the interview process.
(If pushed for an actual number):
"My target salary range is XX-XX; does that align with what you have allotted for this role?"
Anonymous Answer
150K - 200K

Chad's Feedback
Good answer! I recommend including your current salary, including any bonuses, to ensure full transparency and offer the interviewer a baseline.
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Written by Krista Wenz
35 Questions & Answers • Academic Dean

By Krista

By Krista