How to Handle Salary Questions in an Interview.

​Salary questions can feel uncomfortable during an interview. You want to communicate your value without pricing yourself out or underselling yourself. The key is to be prepared, realistic and confident.

1. Do Your Research

Know the typical salary range for similar roles in your industry and location. Consider your experience, skills, seniority and the responsibilities of the role.

2. Don’t Give a Number Too Quickly

If asked about expectations early in the process, you can ask for more information first: “I would like to understand more about the role and overall package before giving a specific figure. Could you share the budgeted range?”

3. Give a Range

If you need to provide a figure, consider giving a realistic range rather than one number.

For example: “Based on my experience and the responsibilities of the role, I would be looking at a range of X to Y, depending on the overall package.”

4. Know Your Value

Salary discussions are also an opportunity to highlight what you bring to the organisation. Be ready to discuss your experience, achievements and relevant skills.

5. Look at the Whole Package

Salary isn't everything. Consider bonuses, benefits, flexibility, leave, development opportunities and career progression when evaluating an offer.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Negotiate

If an offer is below your expectations, have a professional conversation rather than immediately rejecting it:

“I’m very interested in the opportunity. Based on my experience, I was hoping for something closer to X. Is there flexibility in the package?”

There’s no perfect answer to the salary question. What matters is approaching the conversation with research, confidence and a clear understanding of your value.

Remember, the right opportunity isn't always the one with the highest salary. It is the one that offers the right combination of compensation, growth, culture and career opportunity.

Looking for more tips on discussing salary? I am here to help.