Interview question
How to answer: "What are your salary expectations?"
Quick answer
Answer 'what are your salary expectations?' by giving a researched range (not a single number) based on the market rate for the role, location and your experience — and signal flexibility. Where possible, deflect early in the process ('I'd like to understand the role better first'), and let them name a figure when you can.
Why interviewers ask this
Interviewers gauge whether your expectations fit the budget and whether you've researched your worth. Answer too low and you undersell; too high and you may price yourself out.
How to structure your answer
- Research the market rate for the role, level and location first.
- Give a range rather than a single number, anchored at the top of your research.
- Signal flexibility and openness to the full package.
- If asked early, it's fine to deflect until you understand the role.
Mistakes to avoid
- Naming a single exact figure with no room.
- Answering with no research behind it.
- Lowballing yourself out of nervousness.
- Refusing to engage at all when pressed.
Frequently asked questions
Should I give a number or a range?
A researched range is best — anchored toward the top of the market rate for the role, level and location — with a note that you're flexible on the overall package.
Can I avoid answering?
Early on, yes — politely deflect until you understand the role. Eventually you'll need to give a researched range.
How do I research salary?
Use salary guides for the specific role and location, plus sites like Glassdoor and Levels.fyi, and factor in your experience level.
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