In an interview, how do you answer "What salary you are looking for?" when you would consider a wide range?

Question

Because my current contract is ending, I would consider lower paying jobs to avoid unemployment (depending on the benefits), but of course, I would prefer little to no paycut if possible. I have had people refuse to take "I am very willing to negotiate" as an answer because they want a concrete number, but I am afraid that giving my current salary may "scare off" some potential employers. What is the best way to address this?

Answer 1

I'm currently making X, but am willing to consider any serious offer...

Answer 2

Try going to monster.com. I think there is a function on the website that shows the ranges of salaries for various jobs. You can use the average salary for your job category, as a starting point. Then, tell the prospective employer that while this is your desired salary, you are flexible. It's more important that you find a steady, stable job, especially one where you can grow in, at a lower salary rather than higher salary with no job security.

Answer 3

DON'T ask for less than you're worth. My father did this years and years ago. He essentially had the job - a GREAT job - until they asked him what he expected for salary. He didn't do his research, and quoted a number that was more than he made at the time, but far below the average salary for that position.

He did not get th job. Why?

The hiring manager couldn't believe he asked for something so low, and told him that he really didn't know what he was getting himself into if he expected that amount of pay.

You won't scare off potential employers. They KNOW what they should pay you. Stand your ground, and you'll find something that makes you happy AND pays what you're worth. Good luck!

Answer 4

whatever you are used to making, subtract about 2000 from it (just to be on the safe side) then add another 6000 for your max salary range. so if you used to make 35k a year, your salary range for your new job should be around 33-39k a year. since they want a range then you can give them this and they can see if it's then negotiable.

however if you are unwilling to compromise and want AT LEAST what you were making before, then use what your previous salary was as your low end of the salary range and add about 5000 for the max range.

bottom line is if you give them a range, they WILL take up the lower end of it and assume you're okay with it. so keep that in mind when you're giving your salary range. even if they are offering 35k for the position, if you state that 32k is okay with you, then they'll give you 32k.

Answer 5

Tell them you have done the research and you want the market value of this positon. So this means you will have to do the research to make sure they don't pull one over on you. Go to your Public Library to find the book on current jobs and salaries.

Answer 6

I would not say you are willing to take a lesser amount until they have already refused your higher offer. When given an option they will always take the lesser amount.

Answer 7

What is the least amount that you need to get by on. Then play it by ear. Can they reasonably pay you more? Can you show them you are worth more?
Bottom line, you need X amount to live on.

Answer 8

Tell them your current pay packet but say that you consider going lower. You don't mind goin too "X" ammount but would appreciate as close to your old pay as possible to avoid a major life-style change. Jus be sure to stres that you don't mind a drop

Answer 9

I would say, " I WOULD APPRECIATE YOU QUOTING A NUMBER THAT REFLECTS MARKET CONDITIONS WHILE RESPCECTING MY SKILL SET & EXPERIENCE"

that leaves the ball in your court, you will either get a surprise or something to think about

Answer 10

In an interview when they ask what you are looking for say
"I am looking for $xxxx.xxx but I am flexible and open to discusion"
Thats what I said, hehe, and they paid me MORE!!