The "What salary are you expecting" interview question...?

Question

Hi all,

I'm applying for jobs in the field of IT, and I am getting interviews, which I feel have gone ok, especially when the interview has taken a technical path...

However, towards the end of the interview, they tend to ask what sort of salary I would be expecting.

I have extensive previous experience and I have a good idea what my earning potential is.

How is best to answer this question?

Answer 1

The "salary" question is important for a number of reasons. You say that you have a good idea what your earning potential is and they are asking the question to determine that in part. How you answer it says a lot about how well you prepared for that particular interview. The best prepare interviewees will have measured the starting salary range, if not for that exact position, for similar positions in that community. They will discuss all aspects of compensation. Here is your opportunity to ask about the benefits package--health care, tuition for additional training to keep abreast of the issues in the field, or other non salary compensation that is common in your field. You might also use that question to raise issues about performance awards, the period between compensation reviews (wage increases) and other compensation related issues. You should then give a broad negotiating range (say middle five figures) that includes the range common in your area for that position, pointing out that salary is but one component that you would consider if offered the position. Other issues that you would evaluate would include opportunities for advancement, the work environment (here's an opportunity to let them know you like what you've seen so far) and other non-fiduciary benefits. Making it clear that you've thought carefully about compensation but that your NOT just there for the money is more important than some precise answer.

Answer 2

I no longer answer this question. They're fishing. I tell them that I'd like it to be appropriate to the position and comparable to what other people in the position are earning, and competitive so I'd be comfortable building a career with them.

I would not want to be there for a year and find out I'm making much less than everyone else because of a number I gave when answering the question.

The only time I answer it is if I think I should get higher than what is usually offered, but that's not usually an option for most people and positions.

Answer 3

Reply by saying that you would expect a salary that would reflect your experience and expertise required for the job and that you would be willing to negotiate a salary. Say nothing more or anything less, this way you putting th ball firmly back in the court of your potential employer. Good luck!

Answer 4

If you have researched salaries in the field and you feel capable of fulfilling the role, ask for the going rate - why go for less, they too will know the going rate but ask the question in case some idiot is shy and goes in low in which case of course that is what they will pay, why should they pay more. You need to play the game too. Decide your lowest limit and stick to it At the end of the day youre in it for the money - isn't that why we all go out to work.

Answer 5

First what kind of IT field.. Anything in CCNA is going to get a good bank. How much experiance do you have?

Starting i would take 60 but thats going to be too much.

Leave the question open and let them tell you what they want to offer.

Answer 6

I was told to say something like, "I expect to be compensated for my experience, skills, and what the position is worth." and then discuss salary with HR. Any time you throw out a number, then they can say yes or no based on how reasonable that is.

Answer 7

Tell them what you expect to earn, those reputable companies will be happy to pay for experience.
I landed a new job two weeks ago and this came up, he knew my current salary but I said I wanted five grand more, and I got it!

Answer 8

I am expecting around 20% hike could be an honest and simple answer.
They are really looking for a number here nor some generic answer.

Answer 9

As everyone has said, say something along the lines of your experience and skills, but then don't say a final figure. They know what you earn - if they want you, they'll pitch a higher figure to entice you to join!!

Answer 10

The best answer is to tell them what you are currently earning. If they are interested in you, they will offer you a salary higher than your current one.