“I know my worth. How to avoid making mistakes when discussing salary during an interview?

Each of us wants our work to be valued properly. However, the attitude towards the appropriate salary for a job seeker and an employer may differ significantly. If we set aside the subjective approach of the parties involved in employment relations, there are many objective factors that influence the formation of the rate: the shortage or surplus of certain specialists in the market, average salary indicators, the experience and skills of a specific candidate for the vacant position, etc.

So what amount should you name?

When exploring open job positions in the market, we usually come across two types of offers. In the first case, the salary that the company is willing to pay is clearly stated. In the second case, the issue of payment is not raised at all. Obviously, by understanding the company’s capabilities, you can decide for yourself whether the proposed salary suits you, and therefore whether or not to engage in the recruiting process.

If you don’t understand the company’s attitude towards this issue, it is worth analyzing the average salary in the market for similar positions, comparing it with your income at your previous job, adding at least 10-20% on top (to be prepared to compromise with the employer in case of negotiations), and only then stating your expectations during the interview. Just don’t forget that before announcing your financial demands, you need to demonstrate your professionalism in communication. Young specialists with little work experience or no experience at all should not be afraid of a low salary at the start. 

At what stage of the interview should you bring up the topic of salary?

Traditionally, an experienced recruiter knows when, how, and what to talk about during an interview. The initiative in the salary question should also come from the recruiter. However, if the conversation with the potential employer is approaching the end, and you have not yet discussed the issue of remuneration for your work, you should consider it. Either the recruiter is incompetent, or you are not interesting to the company. In this case, you can take a risk – you have nothing to lose – and raise the question of salary yourself. But remember, discussing this aspect is appropriate only at the end of the interview, when almost all the cards are revealed, and both interviewers have received answers to most of their questions.

How to talk about salary?

The most important thing when discussing the question of remuneration is to maintain correctness. Phrases should be as general and official as possible, such as “What is the rate provided by the company for this position?” “Does the business consider the possibility of increasing salary after the probationary period?” “What is the essence of the bonus system?” And, of course, informal formulations such as “How much will you pay me?” “What additional benefits will be added to the salary?” “What’s the pay like?” should be avoided.

Confidence in your competence, a constructive attitude, and correct behavior are the key to a successful interview. Those who seek will always find! Your dream job with a decent salary is just around the corner!