Guide

Salary Expectations

"What are your salary expectations?" feels like a trap, say too high and you're screened out, too low and you undersell yourself. Here's how to answer it with a real range and real confidence.

Give a Range, Not a Single Number

A single number leaves no room to negotiate. A well-researched range signals you've done your homework and gives both sides room to land somewhere fair.

• "Based on my research and experience, I'm looking at a range of [lower bound] to [upper bound], though I'm open to discussing based on the full compensation package."

If You'd Rather Not Give a Number First

It's reasonable to redirect once: "I'd love to understand the budgeted range for this role first, so I can make sure my expectations are aligned." If they push back and ask again, be ready with your researched range rather than continuing to deflect, which can read as evasive.

For a First Job or Entry-Level Role

You likely have less negotiating leverage, but you can still give a researched range rather than an arbitrary guess. Look at entry-level pay for the specific role and location, not just what you personally need to cover expenses, employers are evaluating market rate, not your budget.

• "I understand entry-level roles like this one typically range from [lower bound] to [upper bound] in this area, and I'd be comfortable within that range."

Frequently Asked Questions

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