Offers and pay · 5 min read
How do I answer 'What are your salary expectations?'
Give a researched range whose bottom you'd accept, or ask for their range first. Say it calmly and stop talking.
The short answer
Give a researched range rather than a single number, with the bottom of the range set at a figure you'd genuinely accept. 'Based on similar roles in this area, I'm looking for £42,000 to £48,000, depending on the full package.' If you'd rather hear theirs first, ask: 'Could you share the range for this role?' Many posts now include one. Don't share your current salary unless you want to, and don't apologise for the number.
On this page 4 sections
Before the question comes
Research what the role pays and write down your minimum, target and stretch. Set your range so the bottom is slightly above your minimum and the top is around your stretch.
Three ways to answer
| Situation | What to say |
|---|---|
| Range is posted | The posted range works for me, and I'd expect to sit towards the upper half given my X. |
| No range, early call | Could you share the budget for the role? I'm sure we can find a match. |
| They insist | Based on similar roles here, I'm looking for £A to £B depending on the package. |
Then stop talking
Say your range and wait. Filling the silence with reasons or a lower number is the most common way people negotiate against themselves.
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Questions people ask
- Should I give a number first?
- If the post lists a range, anchor within it. If not, asking for their range first is reasonable. If pressed, give your researched range.
- What if my range is above their budget?
- They'll usually say so. You can then ask about other parts of the package, or decide the role isn't worth it.
- What do I put in an online form that requires a number?
- Your target, or the midpoint of the posted range if there is one. If the field accepts text, a range works.
- Should I mention my current salary?
- You don't have to. 'I'd rather focus on what this role is worth' is a fine answer, and some places don't allow employers to ask.
- Is a wide range a good idea?
- Keep it to about 10 to 15%. A very wide range invites an offer at the bottom.
Exercises are practice, not evidence of career fit or a qualification. How to read our guides and report a correction.
How this page is written
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