How to Answer Salary Questions

How to answer "What are your salary expectations?" 👇 I still remember the first time I was asked this question. I panicked. I didn’t want to ask for too much and risk losing the job… but I also didn’t want to lowball myself. So I said something vague like, "I’m open to anything." And guess what? After getting hired, I realized they paid me the lowest end of their range. I learned 3 lessons. ↳ You have to come in prepared ↳ You have to know your worth AND know how to communicate it. ↳ I will never make that same mistake again. 👇 So here’s how to answer this question with confidence: ✅ Step 1: Do Your Research Look up the industry standard for your role in your location. Use sites like Glassdoor, Levels FYI, or #LinkedIn Salary to get a ballpark figure. ✅ Step 2: Anchor Your Value Instead of throwing out a number blindly, connect it to your skills and experience: "Based on my experience in [specific skills] and the value I bring, a competitive range for me would be [$X–$Y]." ✅ Step 3: Flip the Question Back If possible, get them to reveal their range first: "I’d love to understand more about the budget for this role. Could you share the range you had in mind?" This way, you'll ensure you come in prepared to land the BEST offer! 🧡 You've got this --------- PS: If you found this helpful ♻️ Share this post to help others on their career journey! 🧡 Follow Karla Aljanabi for more interview advice that actually works!

The most intimidating interview question: “What are your salary expectations?” I know that question can feel frustrating, right? It’s tough to navigate because it’s not just about a number It's about valuing yourself and showing employers that you know your worth. But here’s the thing: Getting it right can change the entire course of your job search. So, here’s my advice, start with research. You want to know what the market’s paying for the role you’re after. Check sites like Glassdoor or Payscale, and pay attention to job postings that list salary ranges. The more you know, the better you can position yourself. Next, don’t forget to factor in your own unique skills and experience. You’re not just another applicant, you’ve got a set of skills that add value. So think about what makes you stand out. When you figure out your number, think in ranges, not a single figure. And don’t just focus on the salary. Sometimes the benefits, remote work options, extra vacation days, health perks, are just as valuable, if not more. And here's where it gets real: • Practice the conversation. • Be ready to explain why you’re asking for what you’re worth. But keep it flexible, negotiation is a two-way street. You want them to see you're open to a solution that works for both sides. At the end of the day, it’s about preparation and confidence. You deserve to get paid what you're worth, and with a little research and the right approach, you will. ♻ Repost & follow if you find this helpful PS: How do you feel when recruiters ask about your salary expectations?

What are your salary expectations? Here’s how to nail it with your answer. (Template attached) I've been recruiting candidates for the biggest companies out there, and one question we recruiters mostly ask is related to salary. Most candidates feel awkward telling the salary they expect because they think asking for a big number will affect the recruiter's decision. Let me tell you, it is not true. When recruiters ask about your salary expectations, it's the right time to quote the expected number. If you've calculated a range you’re comfortable with, here’s how to share it in your interview: State your range and explain why you’ve landed on that range. Acknowledge that salary is just one of the factors that will play into your decision to accept the job or not. Signal flexibility so that your answer doesn’t come off as a demand but as the beginning of a conversation. A good template: "Based on my research and understanding of the industry standards, as well as my experience and skills, I believe a salary range of [Your Range] is appropriate for this role. I'm flexible and open to discussing this further to find a number that works for both of us." Another template you can use: "I’ve been doing some research on similar roles and my understanding is that for someone at my level with my background and experience, I can expect to make a salary in the range of $X to $Y. Of course, I’m open to discussions to find a mutually beneficial agreement." Remember - Confidence is key, so be sure of your worth and articulate it clearly. - Stay professional and avoid underselling yourself. - Be prepared to discuss your rationale if asked. As much as you need the job, the company needs you, so understand your worth and ask for it. How would you handle the question?