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Sample Salary Questions and Answers

Does the thought of discussing salary at a job interview make you nervous? Don't short-change yourself by being unprepared.

Negotiate your salary with an employer by reviewing in advance the types of questions they might ask you. Consider various ways you might respond. The answers below provide some examples. With a little preparation and practice, you feel more confident discussing the salary.

Q: What Kind of Salary Are You Looking For?

  • A: Before I can answer any questions about salary, I would like to learn more about the position.

  • A: What would you offer to someone with my qualifications and potential?

  • A: I will consider any reasonable offer.

  • A: I have looked at several sources of wage information. A position like this one typically makes between $40,000 and $45,000 a year.

Q: What Are Your Salary Requirements?

  • A: As I understand the requirements of this position, I would be expected to do/be responsible for (examples). What is the normal salary range in this company for this type of work?

Q: How Does $30,000 Sound to You?

  • A: Is it negotiable?

  • A: Hmmmmmm. That's a good initial offer.

  • A: $30,000 a year...Hmmm. (followed by silence)

Q: Why Are You Interested in This $15 Per Hour Job When Your Last One Paid $30 Per Hour?

  • A: Because I am interested in changing careers/or exploring my interest in this field.

  • A: I've heard good things about this company, and I'd like to be a part of it.

  • A: Company downsizing/reorganizing has become a fact of life. I have made financial adjustments to stay in this line of work.

  • A: The potential for benefits (health, 401K, etc.) offset the difference in salary.

Q: You Are Overqualified for This Position, Why Would You be Interested?

  • A: At this stage of my career, it's more important for me to use my skills in an area that interests me than to maintain my past salary level.

  • A: I chose to make a career change, and I am looking for new challenges in areas where I can use my skills. I would not expect to be at the same salary level as my past position.