The question concerning salary isn't simply about the numbers it's a way for companies to judge candidates Knowing why they are doing something provides you an advantage in the conversation

Why Employers Want to Know Your Salary Expectations

1. Screening the Budget A recent survey says that a significant percentage of candidates are turned down because their compensation expectations don't match what the organization can afford. Employers want to make sure you can fit within their budget from the start
2. Value Assessment ,Your answer shows how sure you are and how much you think you are worth. A senior recruiter says If you ask for a low amount for a job that pays significantly more it makes people question your qualification. A lowball figure can make you look less credible but a well researched answer shows that you are professional
3. Important Insight,  Your wage expectation shows how well you know your worth and the job , Don't guess plan how to do it

Step-by-Step Plans to Ace the Salary Question

How you answer the question about salary depends on how far along you are in the interview process.  You may use this playbook at each stage to stay in charge and get the most out of your offer

Step 1 First Screening Calls

Goal You can stay in the game without being stuck with a low number

Recruiters often question about salaries in early screenings to narrow down their choices.  Your goal is to politely avoid the inquiry while also finding out how much money the job has

• Gracefully Deflect, Don't promise a certain quantity I'd rather talk about pay once I know everything there is to know about the job's duties.  Can we talk about this again when I've shown that I'm a good match for the job,  This keeps you open-minded and shows that you are sure of yourself
• Turn the Question Around If you have to switch to market research I've seen jobs like this in this field pay within a competitive range.  Does that fit with your budget , This shows that you've done your research without limiting yourself
• Give a Lot of Options If you have to give a number give a wide range based on what you've learned For example, Based on my research I would expect something in a competitive range depending on the full compensation package . This keeps you in the running without limiting your choices
• Pro Tip Use industry resources to find out what the average wage is for your job . Just so you know before the call you should base your answer on market data

Step 2 Interviews in the Middle of the Process

Goal Talk about numbers once you've built your worth

At this point you've passed the first screen and the employer is interested in you Before you start talking about money make sure to explain why you're worth it

• Highlight Accomplishments To show your worth share specific measurable wins For example I made a reporting process more efficient which saved my team significant time each week.  These instances make it harder for companies to offer you a low salary later
• Anchor with Market Data If someone asks you about your income use industry standards and connect them to your achievements.  Give this a shot According to industry data professionals in this area make a competitive range Since I've been able to improve efficiency in my present job I would anticipate to be in that range
• Details of the Delay If you can put off the talk I'm excited about this role and want to make sure we're on the same page about our duties. Can we talk about pay after we've talked more about how I fit in This gives you more time to make your case stronger
• Data Point Industry research shows that candidates who use market data in negotiations get better offers on average

Stage 3 The Last Offer Stage

Goal Get the most out of the whole pay package not just the base income

Once you have an offer it's time to plan how to negotiate Use the 4 Lever Framework to look at and improve the whole product

Important Step When you get an offer say something polite like This offer looks good Can I have some time to look over the whole package This gives you time to plan without looking unsure

Three Things That Could Ruin Your Offer

• Telling About Past Salary Many regions restrict asking about previous salaries Instead think about the market worth For instance I'm looking for a salary that is in line with what other people in the field make for this job
• Taking the First Offer Industry reports indicate that many businesses plan to negotiate and are willing to adjust their bids . Always counter even if it's just a little to show that you are sure
• Not Paying Attention to Non-Monetary Benefits Additional compensation in base salary has tax implications whereas benefits like stock or additional PTO can provide significant value.  Think about the whole package which includes PTO health benefits and equity

The Winning Mindset Want Over Need

Career advisors say Focus on the value you bring not what you need Be sure of yourself when you talk about your compensation and bring facts and examples of how you've made a difference Employers want applicants who know what they are worth and can say so plainly Negotiating isn't only about money it's also about showing that you're professional and setting the tone for your job

Your List of Things to Do Before the Interview

• Find out what the going rates are in your area,  You can find out what the average wage is for your job industry and location by using industry resources
• Find out what your minimum is. Take into account your demands and what the market says is fair and then figure out the least amount of compensation you are willing to accept
• Write Scripts , Write out and practice how to answer queries about your income share ranges and negotiate offers Make them fit your job and accomplishments
• Practice with a Guide Many people who practice negotiating feel more sure of themselves. Practice your delivery by role-playing
• Last Reminder Employers want you to negotiate because it shows that you are mature and confident. If you never ask you will never get If you take charge of the conversation you'll get the compensation you deserve