Here's how you can navigate interview questions about your salary expectations.

Navigate interview questions about salary expectations by researching industry standards, providing a salary range based on your research and experience, and expressing flexibility by stating that you are open to discussing a competitive offer.

Navigating salary expectation questions in interviews requires preparation and tact. First, research industry standards for the role to know a fair range. When asked, you can say, "I'm open to discussing salary, but first, I'd like to understand more about the role and its responsibilities." If pressed, provide a range based on your research, ensuring it aligns with your experience and skills. Emphasize your flexibility and willingness to negotiate, focusing on the overall compensation package, including benefits and growth opportunities.

This is a really gross suggestion. Candidates, you get to decide what’s most important to you when interviewing. Maybe you’re at a stage in your life where compensation actually IS the most important factor; paying off student debt, buying a house, or a myriad of reasons could put comp as a top motivating factor. If that’s the case, do yourself and the hiring team a favor and tell them cash is what’s going to sway you, and the specific amount you’re targeting. If your skills match and the rest of your values align, they’ll likely be smart and offer you the top end of the budget. You may not get raises as quickly, but that’s how finance balances things on the back end.

Confident communication is essential when addressing wage expectations during an interview. First, investigate the industry standard for the position and your degree of experience. If asked about your expectations, give a range based on your research, making sure it reflects your talents and expertise. For example: "Based on my research and experience, I'm seeking for a salary between $X and $Y. However, I am willing to discuss the whole remuneration package, which includes benefits and prospects for advancement." This approach demonstrates that you are knowledgeable, adaptable, and focused on the value you provide to the position.

I disagree with a few of the points in this article, but this one the most. You absolutely should bring your salary expectations up early in the process, to save yourself time. Recruiters will usually ask during the intro call for the exact same reason; if salary isn’t aligned, there’s no point in having more conversations. The intro call with a recruiter is just as much for you to assess the company as it is for them to assess you. Salary should not be your first question to or from the recruiter, but make sure it’s one of the final discussion points after you’ve covered your skills and alignment to the role. Do not book further interviews without knowing what the role pays!