What's the best way to tell a company you have a salary requirement?

Question

A company that I did not apply for called me to interview for a job. They found my resume on a website. I have two years experience of what they want me to do. However, I cannot work for too little money and I want to tell them that if they hire me, I can't make any less than a certain amount. How can I explain this the best way without sounding selfish or that I'm too good for the job? If they called me, they obviously had interest in my experience. What can I do?

Answer 1

Obviously, you want the job offer and discussing money first thing will not get it. Start by finding out if this job is right for you and ask a lot of questions about the company. When all else has been discussed, you can begin a conversation about the compensation package (usually this is covered before you get here.) If they dont' give it, ask them the "Salary bracket" for the position in question. From this answer you will be able to determine if they are 'in your ballpark' or out.

Usuall they will ask your requirements. DO NOT tell them. Take your current salary and multiply times 1 and a half. THIS is what you tell them and then add "but that is including a lot of things not on paper." - Immediately ask them "What is the salary/salary bracket/possible compensation for this position?"

The rule in an interview is "first one to mention a number is the loser". Get them to mention a number first, and you have a better chance of getting the job. (It's a psychological thing...)

Answer 2

I would call them back and inquire about the salary for the position. If they say "we don't have one" ask them if the amount that you require would fit in with what they are willing to pay. That is not out of line to ask that question.

As an interviewer I always ask for salary history/requirement from people before I schedule interviews. Save the candidate and myself time up front and not waste either of our time. If their requirement is much more than I know our company will pay then there is no reason to bring them in for an interview.

Answer 3

Your requirement is about what YOU require to live, not about the company. Even if you did interview, why would you go to work for less than you need to live? If they can't pay it, why waste your time???

Answer 4

Say: "What are you planning to pay your best candidate?"

The salary requirement would depend on the scope of the job responsibilities and the market value of the position to the company.

You can get some helpful tips at these sites today:

www.mrinework.com

www.careerbank.com

www.monster.com

Say: "What is the salary range for this position with your company?" Then you get the sum and make the determination of the salary you expect or require up front.

GOOD LUCK! :-)

Answer 5

As mentioned before, this is will be part of the negation process. Clearly communicate your skills, qualifications and what it is that you will be bringing to the table. Any good or great company should be willing to negotiate with you based on these characteristics that you will be bringing to the company. Good luck with everything.

Regards,
Success For Tomorrow
Career Consultants
www.s4tconsulting.com

Answer 6

You should make it clear to the employer what you would like for your salary. They won't be offended. If your asking salary is above the current market for your position, then you'll have to be able to explain why you are worth it.

Also, ask for more than you want. Then if the employer wants to bargain down, you have room to work with. If they don't, then you have a higher salary ;)

Here's a good guide for your reference...

http://www.usallstarmedia.net/interviewanswers/


---
Alex

Answer 7

After the interview is the time to talk money. If they need to know first, they will tell you, and you can decide to comply or push for the interview first.
If they don't meet your number then, keep looking.

Answer 8

That will be part of the Interview/Negotiations process.