How to answer “What are your salary expectations?”
An interviewer asks what you expect to earn before you have agreed on pay.
What they might say
- “What are your salary expectations?”
- “What salary range are you looking for?”
- “Would this offer work for you?”
What's usually behind it
They are usually checking whether your expectations fit their budget. You can ask for the range before giving a researched figure that reflects the role and your relevant experience.
What you can say
- Could you share the budgeted range for this role?
- Based on similar roles, I'm looking for [range], depending on the responsibilities and benefits.
- Is there flexibility in the base salary?
Try not to
- Naming a minimum you would not accept.
- Saying any salary is fine.
How Earshot helps in the moment
Earshot listens live, shows one short card with a suggested line, and nudges you on pace.
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