What Are Your Salary Expectations?

Discussing money can feel awkward, especially in an interview setting. Even with companies being more transparent about pay, being asked, “What are your salary expectations?” can still bring nerves. 

Interviewers ask about salary expectations to see if your desired pay aligns with their budget. A large gap might mean it’s not a good fit, so addressing this early helps both sides. They also compare candidates based on qualifications and salary expectations, balancing talent with financial constraints.

Preparing a solid answer is key. Your response will keep you in consideration and set the stage for any future negotiations. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel, allowing you to present a number that fits your needs while showing respect for the employer’s range.

What Hiring Managers Want to Hear About Your Salary Expectations

In an ideal situation, the employer would state the compensation upfront or include it in the job listing. Often, though, they ask you first. Doing so gives them an advantage. If you name a lower figure than they anticipated paying, they may offer that lower amount. Not every employer does this, but it is common enough to warrant caution.

When you set the tone by stating your salary expectations, it can influence the final number they present. Starting off informed and strategic improves your chances of securing a fair offer.

How to Answer “What Are Your Salary Expectations?”

Know your worth

Conducting research before the interview helps you ask for fair compensation.

• Do some research: Check here, Glassdoor, or Indeed for average salaries in your field and location.
• Consider your background: Factor in your education, specialized skills, or previous responsibilities that add value.
• Ask around: If you know professionals in your field, request insights about standard pay ranges.

With this knowledge, you avoid asking too little or too much.

Delay your answer

Waiting to discuss salary can work in your favor, especially if asked early in the process.

• Focus on the job first: Respond with something like, “I’m very interested in learning more about the responsibilities before discussing salary.”
• Show your interest: Ask questions about the role’s daily tasks or priorities.
• Why delay?: Learning more about the position and proving your suitability can lead to stronger negotiating power when salary comes up later.

Give a range

Offering a salary range rather than a single figure can be effective.

• Pick a range you’re comfortable with: For example, “I’m looking for something between $40,000 and $50,000.”
• Be flexible within the range: The lower figure should still be acceptable to you.
• Why a range works: It shows a willingness to negotiate and provides a starting point for discussion.

Say you’re flexible

If you prefer to keep options open, express your flexibility.

• Show openness: “I’m flexible and focused on finding the right fit.”
• Focus on the big picture: Emphasize the role’s growth opportunities or other benefits that matter to you.
• Ask for their range: “Did you have a salary range in mind for this position?”

Flexibility can be especially helpful if you are entering a new field or considering multiple factors like career growth and company culture.

How Not to Answer

Naming a number too soon

Avoid stating a salary figure before understanding the full scope of the role. Doing so might signal that money is your only focus. Without knowing all the responsibilities and benefits, you risk undervaluing your contributions.

Aiming too high

Setting your salary ask significantly above industry norms could discourage employers. They might move on to another candidate rather than negotiate.

Not negotiating

Accepting the first offer without discussion can mean leaving money or benefits on the table. Most employers expect some level of negotiation and may have room to improve their initial proposal.

Sample Answers to “What Are Your Salary Expectations?”

Why this works:
The answer shows you’ve done research and understand market rates without locking yourself into a number too early. By asking for more information, you shift focus back to understanding the role, which can help you refine your expectations.

If you’re still building your career experience, this approach shows awareness of typical compensation without appearing uncertain. It also encourages the employer to reveal more about their needs.

Why this works:
The candidate provides a clear range supported by research. Giving a thoughtful range shows confidence and preparedness. It also gives the employer a starting point for discussions, demonstrating that the candidate has considered both market conditions and personal value.

Why this works:
Flexibility shows you are not solely focused on money. Emphasizing alignment with the company’s mission or culture highlights your broader interest in the role. By asking for the employer’s range, you gather valuable information that can guide your negotiation strategy.

The most important takeaway? Do your research! Coming prepared with solid salary data helps you speak confidently about what you deserve. Being informed and strategic makes the conversation feel less awkward. It also communicates that you respect your own worth and the value you bring, increasing the chances of landing compensation that meets your needs.