You must not forget this first sentence. Never! Ever! Ready?
“90% of employers want to pay you less than the average base pay for the role you are applying for, and 50% of the 90 will adjust the pay if you are a good negotiator the other 40% will stick to the initial amount they offered you. But you can price yourself out of the role”
You must be sharp! Do not lose your steeze!
7 Nuggets to remember: Answering salary questions during interviews can be tricky, as you want to demonstrate your value without pricing yourself out of the role. Here are seven diplomatic ways to handle the question:
- Deflect and Focus on Fit: “I’m more interested in finding a position that’s a good fit for my skills and career goals. I’m confident that if we’re a good match, we can agree on a salary that’s fair.”
- Express Flexibility: “I’m flexible regarding salary and I’m sure we can agree on a number that reflects my skills and experience once we determine I’m the right fit for the role.”
- Research-Based Approach: “Based on my research of similar positions in this industry, I believe a fair range is between [range]. However, I’m open to discussing this further based on the specifics of the role and the benefits offered.”
- Turn the Question Around: “I’m sure you have a range in mind for this position. Could you share what the budget for this role is?”
- Emphasize Total Compensation: “While salary is important, I’m also interested in other aspects of the compensation package, such as benefits, opportunities for advancement, and the company culture. I’d like to understand the full picture before discussing specific numbers.”
- Highlight Your Value: “Given my background and the value I can bring to your team, I would expect a salary in the range of [range]. However, I’m open to discussing this further.”
- Discuss Your Current Earnings: “In my current role, I earn [current salary], and I’m looking for a position that offers both a step up in responsibility and compensation. However, I’m open to negotiation based on the overall benefits and opportunities your company offers.”
These responses help to keep the conversation open and show that you’re flexible and focused on finding a mutually beneficial agreement.
And now to the 10 Diplomatic Answers
- I’m flexible and open to negotiation. I’m sure we can reach a figure that’s a win-win for both of us.
- I believe in the value I’ll bring to the table. I’m confident we can find a number that reflects that.
- I’m looking for something competitive and in line with my skills and experience, but I’m also open to hearing what your budget is for this role.
- I trust that your offer will be fair and reflective of the industry standards and my qualifications.
- I’m sure we can find common ground that suits both parties. I’m excited about the opportunity more than anything else.
- I’m more focused on the role and the opportunities for growth it presents. I’m confident we can agree on a suitable package.
- I’m looking for a package that is in line with my experience and the value I plan to bring, but I’m open to discussing specifics.
- While I have a range in mind based on my research and experience, I’d love to hear what you have budgeted for this role.
- I’m confident that you have a fair range in mind. Let’s discuss the responsibilities in more detail, and we can find a suitable figure.
- I trust that your offer will reflect the current market standards and the value I’ll bring to your team. I’m sure we can reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Let me know (in the comments) what other responses you think is best to the salary questions at interviews.
Thank you very much for your time, I will see you next week.
Cheers