What are your salary expectations?
"I am new to my career as a cost accountant, so I would appreciate a salary that aligns with my balance of experience and education. I understand that to be in the 55K range for this city and size of an organization. What are you offering for this role?"
"I am looking for a position that not only offers excellent benefits and salary but also the potential for profit share and performance-based bonuses, which I understand fits in line with your company's policies. I'm looking to be in the ballpark of 80k when it is all said and done, which I think is reasonable given the amount of experience I bring and the responsibilities that I will have."
Before your interview, make sure you have researched the median salary for the position (and location). You can look at salary reviews on Glassdoor.com or Payscale.com.
Always make sure you give a salary range, not just a number. Providing a range allows you to negotiate down the road if you are given an offer. However if you just tell the employer you are looking for 50K it doesn't leave room for negotiating later on. Also, make sure the lowest number of your range is something you are comfortable with!
Another great option is to tell the interviewer what you are currently earning and tell them that you are seeking a competitive offer.
"I am currently earning a base salary of 68K per year plus an opportunity for bonus, based on my results. I am looking for a position that will offer me competitive growth and salary."
