How to Answer: What are your salary expectations?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Building Inspector job interview.
6. What are your salary expectations?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Be open and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise. The interviewer wants to hear if your expectations are within the company's budget and whether you are willing to negotiate if necessary. The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on explaining what your current salary and benefits are and how you would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher, based on your experience. If you are more comfortable giving a range, shoot for higher than you want, so there is room for negotiations. However, you want to make sure you do not name a range higher than the job description lists, or you might talk yourself out of a job.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2022
What to Avoid
If the job announcement lists a salary range of $80,000 to $85,000 per year based on experience, you want to avoid asking for less than or more than the company's budget. If you ask for less than offered, it shows you do not value your education and experience. If you ask for more than offered, the interviewer may be hesitant to hire you unless you have advanced skills that will significantly benefit the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2022
Entry Level Example
"As a recent graduate, compensation is not my primary driver. I want to earn what is fair in this industry, given my blend of education and experience."
Written by Krista Wenz on April 1st, 2022
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced Example
"I am currently making $80,000 per year with full medical benefits. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
Written by Rachelle Enns
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