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How to answer "What are your salary expectations?"
Do your research first, give a range you'd be happy with, and leave room to discuss the whole package.
Why interviewers ask it
They're checking that you fit the budget, and how you handle a tricky conversation.
How to structure your answer
- Research the role, level and city.
- Where you can, ask about their range first.
- Give a realistic range based on the market.
- Say you're open to discussing the whole package.
Example answers
Early in the process
I'd like to learn more about the role first. Could you share the range you've budgeted for it?
When asked directly
Based on the role and market rates in Milan, I'm looking at €55,000 to €62,000, depending on the overall package. Is that in line with your range?
These are made-up examples to show the structure. Use your own experience and real numbers.
What to avoid
- Naming a number with no research.
- Saying you'll take anything.
- A range you wouldn't really accept at the low end.
- Forgetting bonus, equity and leave.
Practise this out loud
Run a mock interview for common interview questions. Questions change every time, you answer by voice or typing, and each answer gets a score with feedback.