Responding to the salary question?

When you are asked in an interview how do you answer the salary question? My DH moved here on a NY income & know that he is going to have to take a lot less b/c of where we live. So how do you answer that question with out putting them off with your answer?

Re: Responding to the salary question?

I don't beat around the bushes when it comes to income. I even discuss on the 1st interview.

I don't need to waste my time or someone else.

Sure, experiene is important, job, skills, benefits, etc... but in the end I won't work for free or crumbs. So the income if just as important to me to discuss.

I think you should know exactly what you want and stick to it. Knowing how much is your lowest and how much you are willing to walk out not feeling bad about it if they don't like your number.

When asked how much, I usually will say "My previous income was....." or "I would be satisfied with a range between $... and $...".

Message edited 10/16/2010 4:05:10 PM.

Re: Responding to the salary question?

I just went on an interview and was asked what I was looking for salary wise. I had been offered two other positions in the last couple of months, so I just told the interviewer what the hourly pay was for those jobs and said I'd be looking for something in that range.

I think stating your previous salary and then adding that you're looking for something a bit more is an acceptable answer as well.

Re: Responding to the salary question?

I have told them "I earned X at my last two positions, and I'd love to stay within that range if possible" or if interviewing in a different industry, I'd say "but Iknow this is a different industry and am flexible based on that. I would only expect that I would be offered a salary that is fair in the marketplace and internally equitable." I also emphasize that I am looking for a good fit with corporate culture and opportunities for professional growth, and that I would be taking everything into consideration, not just salary.

Depening on the position/industry, I also would determing what my bare minimum is. I worked in financial services in manhattan and made a high salary, but when interviewing outside manhattan and outside financial services, I amended my answer as described above.

HTH