What do you do if you want to discuss salary expectations confidently in a job interview?

1 Know your worth

Before you go to a job interview, you should have a clear idea of what your skills, experience, and qualifications are worth in the market. You can use online tools, such as salary calculators, surveys, or reports, to get an estimate of the average salary range for your role, industry, and location. You can also talk to people in your network, such as mentors, peers, or recruiters, to get insights into the current trends and expectations. Knowing your worth will help you set realistic and reasonable salary expectations that reflect your value and potential.

2 Be flexible and open

While you should have a salary range in mind, you should also be flexible and open to different options and scenarios. You don't want to give a specific number or a rigid range that might limit your negotiation power or make you seem inflexible. Instead, you can give a broad range that leaves room for adjustment and discussion. You can also express your willingness to consider other factors, such as benefits, perks, bonuses, or growth opportunities, that might affect your overall compensation package. Being flexible and open will show that you are not only interested in the salary, but also in the value and fit of the job.

3 Avoid being the first to mention salary

Ideally, you want the employer to be the first to bring up the salary topic, so that you can gauge their budget and expectations. If they ask you about your salary expectations early in the interview process, you can try to deflect or delay the question by saying something like "I'm more interested in learning about the role and the company first, before discussing salary" or "I'm open to negotiation, depending on the details and responsibilities of the role". This way, you can avoid giving a number that might be too high or too low for the employer, and instead focus on demonstrating your value and fit for the role.

4 Negotiate with confidence and evidence

If the employer gives you a salary offer or a range, you don't have to accept it right away. You can take some time to evaluate it and compare it with your research and expectations. If you feel that the offer is too low or unfair, you can negotiate for a higher salary or a better compensation package. To do this, you need to be confident and assertive, but also respectful and polite. You also need to have evidence and examples to back up your claims and justify your request. For instance, you can highlight your achievements, skills, or qualifications that make you stand out from other candidates, or show how you can add value to the company or the role. You can also mention any competing offers or counteroffers that you have received or expect to receive from other employers.

5 Don't forget to follow up

After you have discussed and negotiated your salary expectations, you should always follow up with the employer to confirm the details and the next steps. You can send a thank-you email or a letter to express your appreciation and interest in the role, and to restate your salary expectations and the terms of the agreement. You can also ask for a written offer letter or a contract that specifies the salary and the compensation package, as well as the start date and the duration of the employment. Following up will show your professionalism and commitment, and will also help you avoid any misunderstandings or disputes in the future.