The question “What is your desired salary?” can make even the most prepared job seekers nervous. It’s a pivotal moment that can influence how employers perceive your value, fit, and expectations. Knowing what to say for desired salary is essential not just to secure fair compensation but also to demonstrate professionalism and confidence.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through how to handle this question strategically—whether you’re filling out an application, responding to a recruiter, or sitting in an interview.
Why Employers Ask About Your Desired Salary
Before figuring out what to say for desired salary, it’s important to understand why this question is asked in the first place. Employers have three main reasons:
1. Budget Alignment
They want to ensure your expectations fit within their pay range.
2. Candidate Fit
Your response can reveal how well you understand your industry’s market value.
3. Negotiation Readiness
Employers often assess how confidently you approach financial discussions—a sign of self-awareness and professionalism.
At Resume Advisor, career coaches help job seekers prepare for this conversation using proven negotiation frameworks that balance confidence and realism.
When You’re Asked About Desired Salary on an Application
Online job applications often include a field asking for your desired salary. This can be tricky since you don’t yet know all the job details or benefits. Here’s how to handle it:
1. Use a Range, Not a Specific Number
Provide a realistic salary range based on your experience, skills, and location. For example:
“I’m seeking a salary in the range of $70,000 to $80,000, depending on the responsibilities and total benefits package.”
This approach shows flexibility while still setting expectations.
2. Research Before Responding
Before deciding what to say for desired salary, use tools like Glassdoor or the Bureau of Labor Statistics to research average pay for your role and region.
3. Avoid Leaving It Blank
Leaving the field empty may suggest indecisiveness. Even if you include “Negotiable,” it’s wise to provide context later in the process.
What to Say for Desired Salary During an Interview?
When asked directly, what to say for desired salary depends on where you are in the hiring process.
1. Early Stage: Defer the Question Politely
If you’re still learning about the role, deflect respectfully:
“I’d like to understand the responsibilities and expectations more before discussing specific numbers.”
This keeps the focus on fit rather than money too early.
2. Mid-Stage: Show You’ve Done Research
When the timing is right, demonstrate market knowledge:
“Based on my research and experience level, a competitive range for this role would be between $85,000 and $95,000.”
Mentioning data-driven research proves your request is informed, not arbitrary.
3. Late Stage: Be Direct but Flexible
Once you’ve received an offer or strong interest, confidence is key:
“I’m excited about this opportunity. Considering my experience and the scope of the position, I believe a fair range would be $90,000 to $100,000.”
Flexibility combined with self-assurance signals that you value the opportunity but also know your worth.
The Psychology Behind Salary Discussions
When planning what to say for desired salary, psychology plays an important role. Your tone, wording, and body language all influence perception.
Here are three principles to remember:
1. Confidence Creates Credibility
Employers interpret confident communication as competence. Practice your phrasing until it feels natural.
2. Specificity Shows Preparation
A well-researched range shows you’ve done your homework.
3. Flexibility Encourages Collaboration
Demonstrating openness to negotiation helps build trust.
Resume Advisor’s interview coaching sessions often focus on role-playing these conversations to help clients master both verbal and nonverbal delivery.
Examples of What to Say for Desired Salary
Here are a few examples tailored to different stages of the job search process.
Example 1: Application Form
“Based on market research, I’m seeking a salary range between $60,000 and $70,000, depending on total compensation and growth opportunities.”
Example 2: Initial Interview
“I’m open to discussing compensation once I have a deeper understanding of the role’s responsibilities.”
Example 3: Recruiter Call
“For similar roles in this industry and region, my target range would be around $75,000 to $85,000.”
Example 4: Final Interview or Offer Stage
“Considering my experience and the impact I can bring, a salary between $90,000 and $100,000 would be appropriate.”
Each example balances professionalism, flexibility, and confidence—the foundation of knowing what to say for desired salary.
Mistakes to Avoid When Discussing Salary
Many candidates stumble during this stage by saying too much—or too little. Avoid these common mistakes:
1. Being Unprepared
Don’t guess. Always research before naming a figure.
2. Giving a Low Number
Underselling yourself can make it difficult to negotiate later.
3. Sounding Uncertain
Phrases like “I’m not sure” or “Anything is fine” can make you appear unconfident.
4. Being Overly Rigid
Stating an exact amount without flexibility can end the conversation prematurely.
At Resume Advisor, clients learn how to strike the right balance between ambition and adaptability when discussing salary expectations.
How to Research Before Setting a Desired Salary
Before deciding what to say for desired salary, preparation is key. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Review online salary data from reputable sources
- Consider your years of experience, certifications, and skills
- Factor in cost of living and company size
- Weigh total compensation, including bonuses, health benefits, and paid leave
- Seek advice from a career coach or mentor
Career experts at Resume Advisor often guide professionals through this process, ensuring that salary goals reflect both market value and personal worth.
How to Follow Up After a Salary Discussion
Once you’ve shared your salary expectations, the conversation isn’t over. Follow up strategically.
1. Confirm Your Enthusiasm
Reiterate your interest in the position. Employers appreciate professionalism and commitment.
2. Document the Discussion
If salary figures were mentioned verbally, summarize them in a polite email.
3. Be Open to Negotiation
If the offer doesn’t meet your expectations, approach it as a discussion rather than a demand.
“I appreciate the offer and the opportunity. Based on my experience, I was expecting compensation closer to $95,000. Is there flexibility within the range?”
This phrasing keeps the tone positive and cooperative.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what to say for desired salary is one of the most important parts of any job search. It’s not just about numbers—it’s about communication, confidence, and strategy.
The goal is to express your value while staying professional and flexible. A well-prepared answer demonstrates that you understand both your worth and the realities of the job market.
If you need personalized guidance on negotiation strategies or interview preparation, Resume Advisor can help. With expert coaching and proven frameworks, we teach professionals how to handle salary discussions with clarity, composure, and confidence.