“What are your salary expectations?” can feel like a trap. Say too high and you might price yourself out; too low and you leave money on the table. Here’s how to answer strategically.
Why employers ask
They want to confirm you’re within budget and avoid wasting time on both sides.
Before the interview: research
Look up salary ranges for the role, level and location. Many job postings now include pay ranges due to pay transparency laws in several states and cities. Decide your target and walk-away numbers.
Option 1: Ask for their range first
I’d love to learn more about the role’s responsibilities first. Could you share the range budgeted for this position?
Option 2: Give a researched range
Based on my research for similar roles in Dallas and my eight years of experience, I’m targeting $110,000 to $125,000, depending on the full compensation package.
Make the bottom of your range a number you’d be happy with.
Option 3: Show flexibility
I’m flexible and more focused on finding the right fit. That said, roles like this typically range from $95K to $110K, and I’d expect to be in that range.
On an application form
If a field is required, enter a range or your target number. If it allows text, you can write “Negotiable.”
Tips
- Talk about total compensation, not just base
- Don’t share your current salary unless you choose to (some locations restrict employers from asking)
- Practice saying your number confidently
Once you receive an offer, learn how to negotiate salary.
How to calculate your range
- Collect 5–10 data points for your role and location from salary sites, job postings with pay ranges and recruiter conversations.
- Note the median and the 75th percentile.
- Adjust for your experience, certifications and scarce skills.
- Set your range so the bottom is your target, not your minimum.
Remote roles and location-based pay
Some companies adjust pay by location even for remote work. Ask whether the range is location-based, and research pay for both your location and the company’s headquarters.
Salary expectations: key takeaways
Here is a quick recap of salary expectations to save or share:
- Research salary expectations for your role and location first.
- Ask for the employer's range when appropriate.
- Give a range whose bottom is a number you're happy with.
- Talk about total compensation.
For official labor-market data and more career research, see the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics and U.S. Department of Labor. Ready to put this into practice? Make sure your resume matches every job you apply for with the HiReXL ATS Resume Optimizer.
Frequently asked questions
Should I give a salary range or a specific number?
A researched range works well, with the low end set at a number you'd be happy to accept.
Can I refuse to answer salary expectations?
You can politely redirect and ask for their budgeted range first, but eventually sharing a researched range helps move the process forward.
Should I tell an employer my current salary?
It's your choice and in some places employers can't ask. Focusing on market value is usually more advantageous.
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