Being asked about your salary expectations can feel like a trap: you want to be fair to yourself, attractive to the employer, and not price yourself out. Keep your wording steady and practical—clear, research-backed language reduces stress and keeps the conversation focused on fit and responsibilities.

Why This Moment Matters

This question often sets the baseline for the whole compensation conversation and can shape whether an offer meets your needs. Employers use it to assess fit and budget, and candidates who answer confidently can avoid leaving money on the table. How you respond also signals professionalism and negotiation readiness. A thoughtful reply keeps the hiring process focused on role alignment rather than guessing games.

Short, Simple Things You Can Say

• ‘Before I give a number, could you share the range budgeted for this role?’
• ‘Based on market research for this level and location, I’m targeting $X–$Y.’
• ‘I’m looking for something in the $X–$Y range, but I’m open to discussing the full compensation package.’
• ‘My expectation is around $X; I’m flexible depending on responsibilities and benefits.’
• ‘I’d like to learn more about the role’s scope so I can give a precise number.’
• ‘Is the salary for this position negotiable? If so, I’m thinking in the $X–$Y area.’

Longer Messages With More Warmth

• ‘I’ve researched similar roles in this area and, given my experience, I’m targeting a salary between $X and $Y. That said, I’m most interested in a position where I can make an impact, and I’m happy to consider the full benefits package when discussing specifics.’
• ‘My current thinking is in the $X–$Y range for base salary. I value opportunities that include growth, mentoring, and clear performance metrics, so I’m open to adjusting based on total compensation and responsibilities.’
• ‘I prefer to focus first on whether the role and team are the right fit. From what I know so far, a competitive range for me would be $X–$Y, but I’d like to learn more before locking in a number.’
• ‘Given my background and the market, I’m looking for around $X. If the company has flexibility or additional incentives (equity, bonus, paid time off), I’d love to factor those in when we continue the conversation.’

What to Avoid Saying

• Avoid answering with a single, unresearched number that might underprice you.
• Don’t say “I don’t care” or “surprise me”—it signals a lack of preparation or boundaries.
• Avoid discussing your current salary as the sole basis for your expectation unless asked and relevant.
• Don’t be overly rigid with an exact figure if you haven’t learned the role’s scope yet.
• Avoid blaming the company or sounding confrontational about compensation early in the process.

Helpful Tips for Handling the Moment

• Research: use salary tools, industry reports, and job postings to build a realistic range before interviews.
• Use ranges: give a spread (e.g., $X–$Y) rather than a single number to preserve negotiating room.
• Ask questions first: request the employer’s range or more detail about responsibilities before committing.
• Consider total compensation: mention benefits, bonuses, equity, and flexibility as part of the conversation.
• Practice aloud: rehearse phrasing so your answer feels natural and confident, not defensive.
• Know your minimum: decide privately the lowest acceptable offer so you can respond quickly and firmly if needed.

A Note About This Particular Situation

Salary expectations often depend heavily on stage of process, geography, and the role’s responsibilities—what’s appropriate for a final-round talk may be premature in an initial phone screen. In some jurisdictions, employers can’t ask about past salary; you can redirect to expectations and market value instead. Remember that answering clearly now doesn’t lock you in—later negotiation and a formal offer are where the final numbers get refined.

Let us know in the comments if this has helped or if you’ve got suggestions we can include

About the Author

Helen Bach is a relationship expert and writer who helps people find the right words when it matters most. She studied English and English Literature at the University of Michigan, where she developed a passion for how language shapes love, conflict, and connection.

At whattosaywhen.net, Helen writes clear, down-to-earth advice on what to say in real-life situations—from first dates and tough conversations to breakups and makeups. Her goal is simple: to make talking about feelings less awkward and a lot more honest.