Christopher K.
Co-Owner of K & G Liquidators | Networking & Personal Branding Enthusiast With Entrepreneurial Mindset
When filling out a job application, how should one answer "what is your salary requirements"?
I have heard you shouldn't give out the first figure so I was wondering what is the best way to go about answering this question. Thanks for taking the time to view my question.
Good Answers (5)
The salary is negotiable - but I would like to table it until an offer has been made. Are you offering me the job at this time?
Good book by Jack Chapman - Negotiating your Salary
Bernard G.
Programme, Project & Change expert
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You should certainly avoid doing this as early as application, but it's likely to get raised at some point so you need an idea of what you would ask for and what you would accept.
There are plenty of sites that publish surveys across different industries and locations, so check these out to have a good idea of what you are really worth - too many people choose a figure that would give them the lifestyle they want regardless of whether it is reasonable.
You can try simply not answering the question - if you are a good enough candidate it would be a foolish recruiter who eliminated you for that - generally my advice would be "answer what is asked" but this is an exception - because it is obvious that not answering is a sensible negotiation move, and no good comapny wants someone who isn't able to take a bit of initiative and challenge things!
Bryan C W.
Seeking a new opportunity in B2B technology; global experience
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Either give a range covering your needs or state that you are sure their offer will be comparable to similar jobs and that you are confident in reaching an agreement should all else be right for you.
Employers are wanting to make sure your expectations are not out of line or that you are not asking too much based on your experience so be conservative until you know they want you.
Sean C.
Career Coach • Certified Professional Résumé Writer • Educator • Social Networking Strategist • Author • Speaker
I agree with the general input given here already. Don't give a specific answer. If the range was posted in the job advertisement, you can answer that you have seen the anticipated hiring range and that you are confident that you would be a competitive candidate somewhere within that range.
Kim L.
Executive Resume Writer committed to helping your job search through highly-competitive career marketing documents
Best Answers in: Job Search (3), Resume Writing (2)
Some good answers here Chris. Just try to the first one who brings up a number.....
Clarification added February 17, 2011:
Just try NOT to be the first one who brings up a number
More Answers (1)
Ross P.
Resource Associate/Certified Professional Résumé Writer at Connecticut Department of Labor
Best Answers in: Job Search (2)
