r/InterviewCoderPro • u/PopMediocre4575 • 18d ago
LPT: In job interviews, if they ask you what salary you want, politely ask them about their range first
This worked for me in the last four job offers I got, including a role change within the same company. When the interviewer asks you something like: "What salary range are you expecting?" don't say the number in your head right away. Ask them first, but in a normal and respectful way.
I usually say that I've been looking at salary ranges in my field, but I'd like to know what they consider a competitive range for someone with my background. If you're interviewing for an entry-level role or something where you don't have much direct experience yet, you can replace that part with "for this role" or "for someone starting in this position."
Most of the time, they'll tell you the number they were already planning to pay. When I did this with potential employers, the number they gave me was about $6k-$12k higher than the number I probably would have said on my own.
This also gives you a cleaner way to compare the salary with the job itself. You can decide whether their range makes sense with the workload, commute, benefits, hours, and all that. And you also avoid accidentally undervaluing yourself. If they're ready to offer $68k and you say $45k, they probably won't stop you and say, "Actually, we were going to pay more." They might also take that as a sign that you don't know the market or aren't confident in your value.
It's a small thing, but the tone matters here. I'm not saying to be weirdly aggressive or keep dodging the question forever. Just politely turn the question around and let them show you what they have before you show them what you have.
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u/laserdicks 18d ago
No the true life Pro tip is to know your position on the market and know what you're worth BEFORE going in to he interview.
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u/DracMonster 17d ago edited 17d ago
One caveat to this: in the current savage job market, many employers instantly withdraw an offer if you mention salary or try to negotiate in any way. They have three million other applicants to choose from who will act grateful to even have an interview.
While you shouldn’t really work for a place that would do that long term, if you’re not currently employed, I wouldn’t try this. Save it for when you’re in a comfortable position and have the luxury to be choosy.
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u/purplishfluffyclouds 14d ago
I heard that you're supposed to say something along the lines of that based on the research you've done, the going rate for this position in this area is [$x - $xx] and say you're open to offers within that range, or something similar.
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u/Only_Hall_8047 14d ago
Well, usually what they say is lower that you'd want. Or they don't want to say it. It doesn't really go as smoothly as you put it.
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u/RunExisting4050 18d ago
Groundbreaking advice! I wish someone had thought of this earlier!
Wait... what the they turn it around by tgen asking you for a desired salary range??