What Are Your Salary Expectations? 4 Effective Ways To Answer The Interview Staple

During every interview, we are always asked “What are your salary expectations?” Most of us give either a range or a particular number to share what we think we deserve.

But quite often, hearing that question makes something twist inside our stomach and tongue to fumble. Once we have shared our expectations, we worry if we have given the right number.

This article will tell you how to share your salary expectations the next time you have to face HR during salary negotiations.

Research Industry Standards

Before you say anything, do thorough research. Most people know in advance where and when they are going to interview. Hence, search for the industry standards from various sources.

Talk to other people if you can and learn more about the company and job description. It will help you make an informed decision and allow you to negotiate better with HR.

When you are researching industry standards, do not forget to consider your expenses, responsibilities of family, EMIs (if any) and insurance. In the future, even if HR says that you quoted a high amount, you would know that it was what you deserved and ultimately, what you need when switching jobs.

Give A Range Instead Of A Number

When you are in the initial stages of the interview, always give a salary range instead of an exact figure. It will prevent you from coming out as a person only interested in the paycheck rather than the designation.

It also shows that you might be willing to negotiate salary and take the discussion forward. You can say, “From what I have understood from the job description, I think somewhere around ₹ABC to ₹XYZ per annum would suffice my expectation.”

It gives room for employers to make adjustments to their budget and does not give a bad impression about your personality.

Turn The Question Around

In the initial stages of the interview, you can even refrain from answering the question if you are not sure about your expectations. You can take your time, discuss the job description and speak to more people if you want.

For example, you can say, “I would like to understand the responsibilities that would come with this job description before we discuss money.”

You can also ask, “May I know what the company is considering to be an appropriate salary range for the vacancy?”

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It will show that you are more interested in the job than the package. If the employer replies with a salary range, you would know whether they are offering more or less than your expectation.

You can decide whether you would like to go ahead or politely decline the offer if you do not wish to move ahead. At least that way, you would not waste your or your employer’s time.

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When To Give The Number & Not The Range

Once you have learned about the job description or reached the final stage of the interview. This is when negotiation happens. Around this time, you would have a faint idea of responsibilities, talk to other people, and know the perks of working for that company.

Now it is time to share an absolute number with your employers (leave a good impression) rather than giving them a range. You can say, “The job description seems exciting and challenging, I think ₹ABC per annum seems like the right package. There are lots of responsibilities involved, and I think I would be able to succeed in the job role.”

When you know what you deserve, you should fight for it. Never underestimate your value and talent.

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