How to Answer 'What Are Your Salary Expectations?' in an Interview

This question can feel like a trap: say too high and you might be screened out, say too low and you might undersell yourself for the rest of the process.

Try to redirect first, if appropriate

"I'd love to learn more about the role's scope before landing on a number — what range have you budgeted for this position?"

Give a range, not a single number

A researched range gives you flexibility while still answering the question directly.

Base it on research, not guesswork

• Salary data for the role, region, and experience level
• Your current or most recent compensation, as context
• The value of the specific skills you bring

Stay consistent across the process

Giving wildly different numbers to different interviewers can undermine trust later in the process.