What to Say When Someone Asks Your Salary Expectations

One of the Trickiest Interview Questions

Salary expectations questions feel like a trap — say too high and you’re out, say too low and you leave money on the table. Here’s how to handle it perfectly.

The Perfect Answer

Flip the question first, and if pressed, give a range anchored high:

“I’d love to understand the full scope of the role before committing to a number — could you share the budgeted range for this position?”

If they push you for a number, respond with a range where your target is at the lower end:

“Based on my research and experience, I’d expect somewhere in the $85,000–$95,000 range, though I’m flexible depending on the full package.”

Why This Works

You’ve anchored high without seeming inflexible. You’ve shown you’re reasonable. And you’ve left room to negotiate upward from $85k, not downward from a single number you blurted out.

Never Say

Don’t say “I’ll take whatever is fair” — it makes you look desperate. Don’t give a single number. Don’t apologize for having a number.