How to Answer 'What is Your Desired Salary?' (Best Answers)
When you're applying for a new job, one of the most delicate and potentially awkward topics is the desired salary question. Regardless if it's on an online application or asked directly by the hiring manager during the interview process, how your answer can make a big difference in your chances of landing the position.
This article will walk you through example answers, and negotiation tips to help you handle the salary question with confidence and professionalism.
Why do interviewers ask about your desired salary?
During the hiring process, employers want to ensure that your salary expectations align with the company's compensation structure and budget. This helps both the recruiter and the hiring manager avoid mismatched expectations early on.
It's not just about the salary. It's about the entire compensation package, including health insurance, stock options, paid time off, and other benefits. If your desired salary is far outside the company's budget, they may move on to other candidates.
How to research and set a realistic salary range
Before answering the desired salary question, it's crucial to do thorough market research. This includes reviewing the average salary range for the position, analyzing industry standards, and considering your own skill level, job responsibilities, and career goals.
Websites like Salary.com and the Bureau of Labor Statistics are great for understanding average salaries for similar job titles in your region. Your current role and hands-on experience also play a big part in determining your market rate.
Some tips to help calculate a fair and competitive desired salary range:
- Review the job description to assess how your background matches up.
- Consider the full compensation package beyond just base salary.
- Think about your financial goals and personal needs.
- Factor in your potential for growth in the new job.
Once you've gathered the data, come up with a realistic number in mind or salary range that you can back up with facts. Being too aggressive or too low can reduce your chances or leave money on the table.
Best example answers to the desired salary question
When you're asked about salary in a job interview, staying confident and honest is key. Your answer should reflect your research, your value, and your compensation needs.
Here are some example answers to help guide your response:
Example 1: Flexible and research-based
"Based on my research and understanding of the role, I believe a desired salary range of $70,000 to $80,000 is appropriate. However, I'm open to discussing the full compensation package and finding a number that works for both of us."
Example 2: Confident with a specific number
"Considering my skills and experience, my understanding of the market value, and the job responsibilities, I'd be comfortable with a base salary of $85,000. That said, I'm flexible depending on the overall benefits and growth opportunities."
Example 3: Deferring to learn more
"I'd prefer to learn more about the position and the entire compensation package before discussing a specific desired salary. My priority is to find a role where I can contribute meaningfully and grow professionally."
Example 4: Emphasizing value before salary
"I'd like to focus on how I can bring value to your team first. Once we've determined the scope and impact of my role, I'm confident we can agree on a salary that reflects my contribution and aligns with industry standards."
Example 5: Anchoring with market data
"Based on my research using industry salary reports and considering my qualifications, I believe a fair range for this role is between $90,000 and $100,000. Of course, I'm happy to discuss this further in light of the full benefits and responsibilities."
Example 6: Expressing openness with a range
"I'm looking for a total compensation package in the $75,000-$85,000 range, but I'm open to discussion based on the benefits, work flexibility, and professional development opportunities you offer."
These responses avoid naming an overly specific figure early unless you have enough information. They also reflect professionalism, show you're well-informed, and signal that you're not just focused on money, but on the full job offer.
How to negotiate salary expectations professionally
Once you've received a job offer, it's time to discuss salary in detail. If the initial offer doesn't meet your expectations, don't be afraid to negotiate.
Here's how to negotiate effectively:
- Express appreciation: Thank the employer for the offer and show enthusiasm for the position.
- State your case clearly: Refer back to your market research, skills and experience, and the industry standards to justify your request.
- Be ready to explain your number: If you're asking for a higher salary, be prepared to explain why it's fair.
- Be flexible: If there's no wiggle room on salary, consider negotiating other parts of the total compensation package like additional benefits, flexible work options, or a job title upgrade.
- Know when to accept: If the offer is in line with your research and career goals, accept it with confidence.
- Focus on mutual benefit: Frame your negotiation as a win-win. Employers are more likely to agree if they see your request as beneficial for the company's success, not just for you.
- Use silence strategically: After stating your request, pause. Let the employer process your proposal without rushing to fill the silence, it can work in your favor.
When discussing salary, stay respectful and focus on your value to the company. Avoid personal needs and sharing salary history unless required.
Some companies have policies against asking, and you can respectfully decline while still providing your salary requirements. Navigating the desired salary question doesn't have to be intimidating.
With proper market research, clear communication, and a confident understanding of your skills and experience, you can effectively discuss and negotiate a fair salary that aligns with both your needs and the company's expectations.
