Ways to Appropriately Answer the Dreaded Salary Question

Many people ask “What is the secret to answering the hard interview questions?”  Give good storied answers, ask good questions, and Get the Job!

When asked about your salary expectations you should not tell the employer an actual figure.

Why?  Because the person who gives the salary figure sets the starting point.  If that’s the interviewee, the interviewee loses. 

Why?  Because if you give a number that is higher than the actual salary range for the position, it sets a very negative tone for the remainder of the interview.  The interviewer will believe you to not be a candidate due to your salary expectations. On the other hand, if you give a salary number that is too small, the interviewer will probably not say anything in an effort to hire you at the lower salary rate.  Either way, it can set the tone for the whole interview.

Here are some loaded variations of salary expectation questions you may be asked and some possible responses.

What is your current or your most current previous salary rate? “Because this position is unlike my  last position, can we discuss what my job responsibilities would be if given the opportunity and then determine a reasonable salary for the position?  The employer would have a hard time arguing when you have used the words responsibilities and reasonable in your response.

What salary range are you looking for? “I would like to hear about the job requirements and what your expectations are first, in order to get a idea of what you need for the position.” 

Pay particular attention to your tone of voice, enthusiasm, and body language during this discussion and try to remain composed and yet enthusiastic.

© Copyright Vet2Work/Naturallysilver 2011. No re-publication of this article is permitted without express permission. This is an excerpt from "Successful Career Moves" by C.A. Stapleton. About the author:  C.A. Stapleton, A.S., B.S., M.B.A., is an experienced, published professional career consultant, mentor, and résumé/ biographical writer.