In this next job interview training tutorial,” the instructor stated, “I will teach you how to answer the difficult question, ‘What are your salary expectations?’” Your response to this question, which is likely to be asked, will influence your chances of getting the job. If you want to maximize your earning potential and boost your paycheck, pay close attention, as I am here to help you.
To help you pass your interview on the first try and earn the highest possible salary, I will focus on four themes in this post: First, I’ll explain why the interviewer asks, “What are your salary expectations?” There are two reasons, and it’s crucial to understand both. The second thing I’m going to do is go over the three components of your response to the interviewer’s question, “What are your salary expectations?”
Third, I’ll give you two excellent rehearsed answers to the question, “What are your salary expectations?” These responses are simple to remember and will help you stand out in your next job interview. One response will be tailored for experienced job seekers, while the other will be suited for recent graduates and those seeking their first job.
Finally, for number four, I will tell you where you can immediately download the answers, as well as my entire set of one hundred exceptional responses to difficult interview questions.
To begin, why is the person in charge of your recruitment asking you, “What are your salary expectations?” They are interested in your response to this question for two reasons, which are as follows:
The first reason is that they want to make certain that they can pay you what you’re worth. If you request a figure that is significantly greater than what they have available in their budget, they will move on to the next candidate.
The second reason they’re probing you with the question, “What are your salary expectations?” is that they want to know if you’re aware of the value you bring to the table. Anyone can ask for a high predicted income, but justifying why you are worth that amount is a completely different task.
Okay, now that we’ve cleared it up, let me share with you the three components of your answer to the interview question “What are your salary expectations?” After that, I’ll give you those two insightful responses.
First and foremost, you should start your response by expressing the salary or price range you are looking for in the role. Before you walk in for your interview, do some research on the salary range for your position and industry on websites such as payscale.com and glassdoor.com. I advocate conducting this research.
Now that you know the wage range, select two figures within it that you are willing to work for. The higher number represents the maximum amount you believe you’re worth in the position, and the lower number is the minimum amount you’re willing to accept. For example, you might say, “My anticipated salary is between $55,000 and $61,000.”
Number two: Explain why they should pay you the salary you seek. Simply stating, “My expected salary is between $55,000 and $61,000,” won’t suffice. You must justify your worth and explain how your presence in the position will benefit the organization.
The third tip for answering the interview question “What are your salary expectations?” is to end your answers with the following: Following that, “I will ensure that you see a good return on your investment for that salary amount.”
Okay, before we continue, let me give you two examples of rehearsed responses to the question, “What are your salary expectations?” The first option is for candidates with past work experience, while the second option is for those who have recently graduated from college or have never worked before. So here we go:
What type of pay do you expect to be offered? Exemplification of an acceptable response for experienced applicants:
My salary expectations are based on the going rate for someone with my level of experience and ability in my sector, which is probably between $55,000 and $63,000 per year. I believe I should be paid closer to the top of that wage range, and the value I can bring to the table in exchange for that amount will justify my request. My 10 years of experience adds to the breadth of my knowledge and competence.
In my most recent position, I helped achieve record sales for a new product launch and consistently received excellent appraisals from my manager. If you pay me $63,000, I guarantee a significant return on your investment by identifying trends and opportunities, increasing office efficiency, ensuring high-quality work is completed quickly, and building strong, long-term relationships with clients and customers.
What type of pay do you expect to be offered? A sample response for those who are just entering the workforce or have never worked before:
My ideal starting salary is between $35,000 and $43,000. Although you are unfamiliar with me, I believe I am worth something around the top of that range. I will be a key contributor to your team due to my ability to handle fast-paced work, my commitment to professional development, and my talents that align perfectly with the job description. You will see a positive return on your investment because I am enthusiastic, open to new experiences, and willing to take on responsibilities beyond my job description. I also set a great example for the rest of the firm. For $43,000.