How To Handle the “How Much Salary”


How To Handle the “How Much Salary” Question During Job Interviews


Navigating the job application process can be a challenging experience, especially when it comes to discussing salary expectations. A common conundrum that many applicants face is recruiters or hiring managers claiming they don’t have a specific salary range for the position. But is this always true? After all, wouldn’t a company budget for its hires?

The Predicament
Many job seekers have encountered situations where, regardless of the size or stature of the company, the recruiter avoids disclosing the budgeted salary range. This evasion can become particularly frustrating when the onus is then placed on the applicant to specify their salary expectations. Understandably, there's a fear of either under-quoting and not getting fair compensation or over-quoting and potentially losing the job opportunity, especially if one is keenly in need of employment.

Pre-Interview Research
Before attending an interview, it's prudent to do some research. Occasionally, the same company might list similar positions on job platforms with a specified salary range. Even though it might not be an exact match, it provides a ballpark figure to work with. However, it's also possible to come up empty-handed, making the situation more complex since salary ranges for the same job titles can vary significantly across industries and company sizes.
Tips to Handle the Salary Question
1. Shift the Focus: If a recruiter asks for your salary expectation and doesn’t provide a range, try shifting the conversation by saying, "I'm keen to understand the responsibilities and expectations of this role better. Can we discuss that first before diving into compensation?"
2. Offer a Broad Range: If pressed for a number, provide a wide range based on your research, industry standards, and personal needs. This gives you and the company some wiggle room for negotiation.
3. Highlight the Complete Package: Mention that your decision will be based on the entire package – including leave, benefits, career growth opportunities, work environment, and other non-monetary factors.
4. Ask Directly, But Tactfully: There's no harm in inquiring, "Is there a budgeted range for this position that the company had in mind?" This direct approach can sometimes yield a straightforward answer.
5. Stand Your Ground, Politely: Remember that you are also evaluating the company as a potential workplace. If a company is evasive about fundamental aspects like compensation, it might be worth reconsidering if it aligns with your professional and personal values.
Discussing salary can indeed be a difficult topic, but being prepared, staying calm, and handling the conversation with tact can lead to a favorable outcome for both parties. Remember, the interview process is as much about you evaluating the company as it is about the company evaluating you.

Welcome to Recruiter Real Talk, where your career growth is our top priority. I’m Melinda Janeiro, a dedicated Human Resources Professional with over 15 years of progressive experience across various sectors, including manufacturing, electronics, and IT. My passion lies in empowering job seekers and professionals to excel through strategic skills enhancement and career guidance. Connect with me on LinkedIn.

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