In a job interview, the answer to the question they ask about the requested salary is so vital that it may determine whether you get hired or not. If you answer this question appropriately, you have shown that you know your field of work well and understand your skills and value. In this case, the probability of your employment increases because the employer understands that he can work with you. But if you don’t have a suitable answer to this question, the probability of your cooperation will decrease. In this article, we will first talk about identifying the amount of fair salary requested; then, we will provide you with solutions so that when this question is raised in the interview, you can answer it correctly.
Why is the answer to the requested rights question important?
If your answer is higher or lower than usual, problems arise. Offering an amount more than normal means that you will not be hired, and offering an amount less than usual means that you will be paid less than expected and, as a result, you will be dissatisfied. We raise the issue of how much this “normal limit” is and how it should be expressed below.
How can you prepare to answer the question of the requested salary?
To find the correct answer to this question, you must have done your research and calculations before the interview. For this, you can get help from the sources mentioned below.
1. Internet research
Now, cyberspace and websites publish various data and guides for different topics, including the requested rights. Before the interview, do some research about the job you are considering. Look for data that estimates the asking salary range for that job. In your search, don’t just stop at one or two websites and search patiently for answers.
2. Ask colleagues
Talk to people working in the same job you are applying for. Ask them to state the salary received at the beginning of the job and after gaining work experience. Also, ask them to talk about their job interview experience. Their explanations may be helpful and teach you tips unavailable in other sources. Note that this inquiry does not have to be in person. Cyberspace and networks like LinkedIn are good places to have this conversation.
3. Check similar ads
You may have seen its job advertisement when choosing your job. In this case, you can take a look at similar ads. See what salary range other businesses have written in their ad details.
4. Considering the cost of living
You also need to factor in living expenses. Indeed, the cost of living in big cities is not comparable to living in a small town. So, when checking previous sources, you should also pay attention to the job location. For example, the salary offered for a job may be higher, but this salary increase is offset by the cost of living in a larger city.
Five steps to answer the question of the amount of wages requested
1. Thank the interviewer
Thank the interviewer for bringing up the topic of salary and benefits. Point out that this is an important issue and that it should be discussed. For example, say: “Thank you for bringing up the topic of salary and benefits.” “It is important to discuss all aspects of this job.”
2. Delay your response
Instead of immediately answering the requested salary, make your answer subject to more detailed explanations about the process of doing things in the job position, challenges, and possible problems and responsibilities.
For example, you could say, “Before I get into my expectations, I’d like you to explain more about the responsibilities and challenges of this job so I can better understand the working conditions.”
Or, with another approach, you can ask the interviewer to explain about welfare packages, insurance, and job benefits. For example, say, “I’d be happy to discuss my salary request, but I’d like to know more about the financial benefits, insurance coverage, and advancement requirements for this position.”
3. If the interviewer insists, have a response ready
If the interviewer asks you to give them a number, be prepared to provide a range based on the working conditions, job standards, and company requirements. Determine your requested salary range based on your qualifications, skills, and work experience. It is better to state the numbers slightly higher than the average to allow for bargaining to arrive at a fair number for the salary.
4. If the interviewer insists on an exact number, state it
If the interviewer still insists you give them an exact number, inform them carefully and respect the aspects of the numerical matter. Why should you be careful? Announcing a specific number limits you from negotiating and bargaining. You should prepare this number before the interview.
5. Declare your readiness to negotiate
Even if the work goes to the fourth stage, emphasize your readiness to negotiate and bargain on the announced amount. Announcing this issue means that you are not a strict person, and it is possible to reach an agreement with you.
For example, you could say something like this: “Although I have announced the number X, I want to emphasize that this is not my final number and that we can negotiate. “I am interested in this job, and the salary is only one aspect.”
Tips when negotiating the requested salary
It is better to pay attention to the following points when negotiating the amount of salary:
- Know your worth. Do not underestimate your qualifications, skills, and experience. Present and value them appropriately. Use them during interviews and salary discussions to rationalize your offer.
- Combine confidence with realism. Maintain confidence when negotiating salary and benefits, but be realistic and consider the salary standards in your field of work.
- Consider other aspects of the job. The salary received is only one factor affecting the desirability of the job. Pay attention to different elements, such as the possibility of growth, work environment, organizational culture, and your non-financial expectations from the desired job.
- Compromise Don’t forget in the negotiation that your goal is to win the game. Therefore, I put aside stubbornness or monotony, and this view is that my request must be implemented without hesitation.
- Set the minimum wage. Before the interview, consider your requested salary. This will help you determine the ultimate compromise.
- Be patient. Accepting your requested rights or the other party’s offer may take time. Therefore, if possible, postpone the final answer to the next meeting or sometime after the interview.
- Listen carefully. Pay close attention to the interviewer’s explanations, concerns, and other comments. When you listen carefully, you can better understand the other party’s point of view and negotiate.
- Be enthusiastic. Show yourself that you are very interested in working in that business. The better the other party understands your passion and interest, the more willing they will be to negotiate on different issues, such as the requested salary.
- Be prepared to fail. Be ready for the negotiation to fail. The employer may not be able to meet your expectations. In this case, you should not be angry or frustrated. Keep going and wait for better offers or opportunities.
Tell us about your experience.
What educational experiences have you had from job interviews and salary discussions? Please share your experiences with us and the audience.
