If an interviewer asks me what I am expecting as my salary, what should I answer?
The Great Salary Reveal: Should You Give a Specific Number or a Range?
Ah, the dreaded salary expectation question. It’s the moment in an interview that can make even the most seasoned professional break into a cold sweat. “What are your salary expectations?” The answer you give can significantly impact your job offer, but there’s a lively debate about the best strategy: should you state a specific number, or offer a range?
Let’s dive into both viewpoints to help you navigate this critical career conversation.
The Case for a Specific Number: Know Your Worth and State It Boldly
One school of thought, championed by many experienced professionals, argues vehemently for providing a single, precise figure. The reasoning here is clear and compelling:
- Signals Confidence & Value: When you state a specific number, you project confidence. It tells the employer you’ve done your homework, understand your market value, and are not afraid to ask for what you believe you’re worth.
- Avoids the Lowball Trap: Critics of the range approach argue that if you give a range (e.g., R70,000 – R80,000), the employer will almost always anchor their offer to the lower end. By stating R80,000, you set a higher anchor point.
- Filters Out Misaligned Companies: As one individual noted, “A company that is not toxic will understand and will offer you the job IF you are their top choice.” If a company immediately dismisses you for a reasonable, specific request, it might indicate a culture unwilling to fairly compensate talent. This can be a self-selection tool to avoid environments where you might feel undervalued.
- Prevents Undervaluing Yourself: If you settle for a lower number or a low end of a range, it could inadvertently send a message of desperation, potentially affecting how you’re perceived and treated in the role later on.
When to consider this approach: If you have highly specialized skills, are in high demand, have extensive research to back up a precise number, and are confident in your negotiation abilities, a specific number can be a powerful tactic.
The Case for a Salary Range: Keeping the Door Open for Opportunity
On the flip side, many career coaches and recruiters advocate for providing a well-researched salary range. This strategy is also built on solid ground:
- Maintains Flexibility: A range keeps the conversation open. If your specific number is above the company’s budget for the role, they might immediately discard your application without further consideration. A range allows them to see if there’s overlap with their budget.
- Invites Negotiation: By providing a range, you invite the employer to meet you somewhere in the middle or at a point that works for both parties. It signals that you’re open to discussion, rather than presenting a non-negotiable demand.
- Adapts to Unknowns: Sometimes, the full scope of a role or the company’s total compensation package (including benefits, bonuses, equity, etc.) isn’t entirely clear until later stages. A range allows you to be flexible as you learn more, especially if the total package adds significant value.
- Broadens Opportunities: For roles where you might not be the absolute top-tier candidate but are still highly qualified, a range might keep you in consideration when a specific, higher number might exclude you.
When to consider this approach: If you’re exploring roles where the market value might fluctuate, if you’re keen on the company and want to maximize your chances of an offer, or if you’re less experienced in salary negotiation, a well-justified range can be a safer and more strategic play.
The Golden Rule: Research, Research, Research!
Regardless of which strategy resonates more with you, one thing is universally critical: Do Your Homework!
Before any interview, you MUST:
- Research Industry Averages: Use sites like Glassdoor, PayScale, LinkedIn Salary, and even local job boards to understand typical compensation for the role in your location and industry.
- Factor in Your Experience & Skills: Adjust your expectations based on your unique qualifications, years of experience, specialized skills, and any certifications.
- Consider Total Compensation: Remember, salary is just one piece of the puzzle. Think about health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, bonuses, stock options, and other perks. These can add significant value to an overall package.
How to Deliver Your Answer (The Best of Both Worlds?)
When the question comes, try to redirect first to gather more information.
- “Thank you for asking! I’m truly excited about this opportunity. To ensure I provide a realistic figure, could you share the salary range budgeted for this position, or perhaps explain the full compensation and benefits package?”
If they press for a number, you’ll be ready. Whether you choose a specific, well-justified figure or a strategic range, deliver it with confidence, showing you’ve put thought into your worth.
Conclusion to If an interviewer asks me what I am expecting as my salary, what should I answer?
Ultimately, the choice between a specific number and a range depends on your personal negotiation style, your confidence in your market value, and your assessment of the company. Both approaches have valid arguments, and the best strategy is the one that empowers you to advocate for yourself effectively while keeping your career goals in sight.
What’s your preferred approach to the salary question? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!