In this guide
instructional guide
How to answer “What are your salary expectations?”
How to research a fair salary range, when to give a number, how to phrase your answer and what to do if the offer is lower than you hoped.
Why employers ask
Usually the employer wants to know whether your expectations fit the budget for the role before either side invests more time. It is a practical question, not a trap. A researched answer helps you avoid both underselling yourself and ruling yourself out with a figure far above the range.
Research the range first
Look at several sources rather than relying on one number. Pay varies with location, sector, employer size and seniority, so compare like with like.
- Adverts for similar roles at a similar level in the same area
- Official earnings statistics, such as the Office for National Statistics in the UK
- Job profiles that list typical salaries, such as the National Careers Service in England
- Occupation information such as O*NET in the US
- Recruiters, professional bodies and people already doing the job
Give a range you can stand behind
A range gives room for discussion, but set its lower end at a figure you would genuinely accept, because employers often anchor on the bottom of a range. Base it on your research and the responsibilities of this role, not only on what you earn now.
If the advert states a band, you can say where within it you would expect to sit and why — for example because you meet the essential requirements and several of the desirable ones.
Phrasing examples
These examples are illustrative; replace the figures with your own research.
- “Based on similar roles in this area and the responsibilities we've discussed, I'm looking for something in the region of £32,000 to £35,000, depending on the overall package.”
- “The advert mentions £40,000 to £46,000. Given my experience leading the team's reporting, I'd expect to be in the upper half of that band.”
- “I'd like to understand the full responsibilities and benefits first. Could you share the budgeted range for the role?”
If you would rather not give a number yet
It is reasonable to ask for the employer's range first, especially early in the process. If they press for a figure, give your researched range rather than refusing outright. In some places employers are restricted from asking about your current or previous salary, so check the rules where you live; either way, you can focus on what this role is worth rather than your pay history.
When the offer arrives
Thank the employer and ask for a little time to consider it if you need it. If the offer is lower than you hoped, you can ask whether there is flexibility and explain why, using your research and the evidence of what you bring. Consider the whole package — leave, flexibility, pension, training, progression — not only base pay.
Some roles, such as positions on fixed public-sector pay scales, have less room to negotiate on salary, though the starting point on the scale may still be open to discussion. Once you agree, ask for the final terms in writing.
What to avoid
Do not invent competing offers or inflate your current pay. Avoid naming a single fixed number before you understand the role, and do not apologise for asking a fair question about pay. If negotiation feels daunting, practising the conversation beforehand — with someone you trust or an independent career coach — can make it easier to stay calm and specific.
Common questions
Should I give a range or a single number?
A range usually works better, as long as the lower end is a figure you would genuinely accept.
What if the salary is in the job advert?
Use it as your reference point and explain where within the band your experience places you.
Is it acceptable to negotiate a first offer?
Often, yes, if you do it politely and give reasons. Some roles have fixed pay structures with less flexibility, so ask what is negotiable.
Do I have to tell them my current salary?
You can choose to focus on the value of the new role instead. In some places, employers are restricted from asking about salary history at all.