Wednesday, August 5, 2009

How do you answer, "What salary are you looking for?" during the job interview?

What is appropriate and not.
How do you answer, "What salary are you looking for?" during the job interview?
As a former recruiter, I often want to know their salary range. If they are looking for too high of a salary and it's far above what I can consider, it's not worth their time or mine to pursue the candidate further. (for instance, if the hiring manager is only willing to consider $40-45K per year, and the candidate is expecting 60K per year, I know they are not a potential candidate).





So, I recommend doing some research. Besides the other website suggested, I also recommend www.salary.com


and look for a similar job by ZIP code. Bear in mind, that when unemployment is higher, it will be more likely that a person expecting a higher salary may be bypassed for a lower wage candidate. So, when asked, I suggest stating that you are open to a reasonable offer, based upon my skills and qualifications. If they press for an answer, you may have to come up with a salary range (or that unwillingness to discuss it, may be a deal breaker).





And, consider that even if you have to take a job that pays a lot lower than you are expecting to start, often the job will increase in salary later on. I have a bachelor's degree and combined experience of 23 years and had to take a job that paid several dollars an hour lower than before (in fact, I'm getting paid less than I was paid 10 years ago). But, when I factor in the cost of going to work and the comparable benefits, what I end up with in take home real dollars is actually not as bad as it appears.





So, don't turn down a job based upon salary. Instead, look for a job in terms of total factors.
Reply:Do your homework before you go to the interview. Research and see what the typical salary is for the job that you are applying for. Then, adjust it as necessary to fit your particular needs. If you're still unsure you can always follow up the amount you tell the interviewer with the statement "but that's negotiable". That let's them know the amount you're looking for but that it isn't concrete in case it's a little higher than they were willing to pay.


Hope this helps
Reply:If you are already or were recently employed, then tell them what you received.





I disagree with responding with a question of what it pays -- you should know that before you get to the interview stage.





If this is your first job, ask for an amount on the low end, but make it clear that you hope to advance your salary with your career.
Reply:Never, I repeat never disclose your expected salary.





You will be asked this question 3, 4, or 5 times by the same person, but it is important to say: "I will entertain any reasonable offer commensurate to my skill level." You can add: "I can assure you that my salary compensation is not going to be showstopper issue during this interview process."





BTW, if you would like to find out what is the compensation like for this employer, visit http://www.linkednow.com. Please also leave a review of your own to help others.
Reply:reverse it





ask how much does this position pay





If they say depends on you





well say i am worth x BECAUSE i can do :


this


and that


and that.





if they say, well we dont' need that/want that ( you can say well skills are there, its' your choice if you are going to use it ot not.





generally this settles the question,and usually you'll get the salary you want. ( people really see attitude/confidence)
Reply:Same as what the first person said- Reverse it. Come back and ask them- "What do you think a good salary would be for someone with my skills and level?"





NEVER ask for an amount. Let them OFFER and then depending on what they say, you can alter it.
Reply:Never give a dollar value or even a range. You want them to make you an offer and then you can negotiate from there. I would ask them to make an offer that is commensurate with the position and your experience and take it from there.

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