How do you answer interview questions regarding salary?

Question

On a few job interviews, I have been presented with an unexpected question: "What wage/salary do you expect to be paid?" Frankly, I find it a rather strange question since I was raised by a "take it or leave it!" standard strictly enforced by my parents--more or less, they should tell me how much they will pay, and if I don't like it--good luck paying the rent.

I first tried answering the question by stating the minimum wage, to which one responded "You think you're only worth the bare minimum?" So in another interview I tried stating a $1.50 over the minimum wage, to which she responded "Hmm--that's a tall order"

So the next interview, I said, "I'll be satisfied with whatever you feel I deserve to be payed" and she shot back with "But I am asking YOU, how much do YOU think you deserve to be paid?"

So how do you effectively answer that question without either sounding greedy or placing a low value on your work? This is a little frustrating! I'm used to employers saying "Your wage will be x dollars"

Answer 1

Do your research before the interview and find out what the average wage is for that type of job in your area (or at least an vague idea of what a similar position is paid). That way you can go in with a figure in mind.

When asked you can then query how much they are offering and say that you've found X to be around the average for this job (and the experience level).



For me now, I'm on £7.10 an hour. So ANY new job I go for I will be asking for at least that amount (why would I take a paycut when I have more experience than I did a year ago?). But depending on the job would depend how much more I asked for. If I went to what is usually a minimum wage job (£6.50) I would probably say I am currently on £7.10 and leave it there. If I was going for a job I had no experience or training in, I would just state my current salary. If I was looking to progress in the same industry I would give the average salary (for example £8). Then if they try and negotiate, I know in my head that £7.20 (for example) is my lowest because it's a step up from my current wage.

Answer 2

that interviewer who said 'that's a tall order' sounds like a total b*tch and someone you DONT want to work for - i mean, what's her salary??? right, to answer this question, you say "I would only expect the market value for this position." do your homework and find out what that is, but only offer it if they PUSH you to be specific. Otherwise give a range - makes it harder for them to come back at you with some sh*tty comment. Generally, the first person who gives a figure loses. So, show that you will not be bullied or coerced.

Answer 3

Give them a range, for example if it is a low paying job (just above minimum wage) then give them a range - tell them, I would be looking in the range of $10-$15 dollars per hour.



They ask this question because they want to see what you consider yourself worth. They are gauging your personality and your self confidence, to see if you would be a good fit for the company. By giving them a range, you are saying it is negotiable and that you consider yourself worthy of that range. That you have confidence in yourself and your work.

Answer 4

Use salary sites like PayScale to get an idea how much to ask for the job you are applying for. See http://bitly.com/Y115CQ .

Answer 5

In this game, it's usually the first one that names a number loses- when asked about salary requirements, I ask *them* how much do they have budgeted for the position. And it you really *have to* give a number, go to a salary site (like salary.com) and see what is average in your area. And cite that: "well, Salary.com states that this range is normal for this area..."

Answer 6

Do the research on the salary ranges for the type of job. Then when you are asked you are able to give a reasonable answer based on your job experience.

Answer 7

Whenever i ask this i want to hear how much they want to get paid in a dollar amount. if they say too much, i willvnot hiremthem to help pick up osaige oranges off the ground at the state park...