How to answer 'What's your salary expectation?'
The question that makes everyone sweat. Here's how to answer without lowballing yourself or pricing yourself out.
By Sofia Marín · 2026-04-02
Answer too low and you anchor yourself there; too high and you may be screened out. The fix is a researched range and a calm delivery.
Do the homework first
Check salary data for the role, level and location. Build a range where the bottom is still a number you'd happily accept.
Three ways to respond
- Give a range — 'Based on the role and my experience, I'm targeting $X–$Y.'
- Turn it around — 'What range is budgeted for this position?'
- Defer briefly — 'I'd love to learn more about scope first, then talk numbers.'
RememberThe first number is an anchor, not a contract. You can still negotiate once a real offer is on the table.