Answering: “What Are Your Salary Expectations?”

Few interview questions make job seekers more nervous than this one:

“What are your salary expectations?”

Answer too high, and you worry you’ll be screened out. Answer too low, and you may leave money on the table. The goal is not to “win” the question with one perfect number. The goal is to keep the conversation moving while protecting your value.

Here’s how to answer it strategically.

When the salary range is listed

Good news: when the employer provides a range, you have useful information.

Start by asking yourself three things:

Is the range acceptable?
Would you genuinely take the job if the offer landed within that range?

Where do you fit in the range?
If you meet most of the qualifications, you may belong in the middle or upper half. If you are more junior or changing categories, the lower half may be more realistic.

What else matters?
Bonus, commission, benefits, hybrid flexibility, growth potential, wardrobe allowance, travel, and title can all affect the value of the offer.

A strong answer might sound like this:

“Based on the range listed, I’m comfortable continuing the conversation. Given my experience in merchandising and vendor management, I’d expect to be toward the middle to upper end of that range, depending on the total compensation package.”

Or, more directly:

“The posted range of $75,000 to $90,000 is aligned with what I’m targeting. Based on the role and my experience, I’d be looking for something in the $85,000 to $90,000 range.”

If the range is lower than you hoped, don’t reject yourself immediately. Try:

“The range listed is a little below what I’m targeting, but I’m very interested in the role. Is there any flexibility for the right candidate?”

When the salary range is not listed

When no range is provided, avoid being the first person to throw out a number too early. You may not know enough about the responsibilities, team size, travel, workload, or bonus structure yet.

A polished answer:

“I’d like to learn more about the scope of the role before giving a firm number. Can you share the budgeted range for the position?”

If they push for your expectations, give a researched range—not a single number.

“Based on my experience and what I understand about the role so far, I’m targeting a range of $80,000 to $90,000, depending on the total package and responsibilities.”

Make sure the bottom of your range is a number you would actually accept. Many employers will start there.

What not to say

Avoid answers like:

“I’m open.”
“Whatever you think is fair.”
“My current salary is…”

Being flexible is fine. Being vague can cost you.

The best approach

Do your homework before the interview. Know your ideal number, your realistic range, and your walk-away point.

Then answer with confidence, flexibility, and professionalism.

Salary conversations are uncomfortable, but they are also normal. You are not being difficult by discussing compensation. You are treating your career like a business.