The other day, I received this question on our Expert forum.
“I am in a situation where I have studied communication, got a distinction for my final year … its been 3 yrs and I have landed in so many unrelated jobs that I beginning to think that I will never work in communications … how can I get there and not be paid a beginners salary??”
This was my answer: (more…)
In general it is not the time to deal with the salary question until the offer is made. If they ask you this question during interview, ask back for the salary range of this position first. You can mention you are flexible about salary, which means it’s negotiable. Don’t give a specific amount and don’t make a commitment. You’ll have the fun time for real negotiation after they offer you the job.
But before interview you’d better do the salary research. Check the web and ask around. There are many online resources for IT job salary info.
Sample Answers:
“I’d rather not commit to a specific salary until the interview process is over and you make a formal offer. What is most important to me is the opportunity to work for your company. I am confident that your offer will be competitive.”
“I would expect a salary which reflects my skills and experience. What’s the salary range for this position?”
“I’m sure you will be fair. My focus is on finding the right opportunity, and I’ll be open to discussing salary when the offer is made.”
“I am ready to consider your very best offer. What did you have in mind?”
“I’ve got extensive experience on Oracle and believe my DBA skills are a perfect match for this position. I would expect my salary to be at the upper end of your range.”
Money… that’s what this is all about. Unfortunately, business owners don’t hire you simply to give you their money. The surest way to not get a job is to ring up and ask how much it is paying.
The second best way to miss out on the job is to ask how much you will be paid in the first interview. Either wait for the final interview or until you have received a job offer. Besides, your research of the industry should already give you an indication of how much to expect. (more…)
It goes up and down. When in down turn, employers take the advantage. To cut cost, companies let their high-paid IT workers go. Many of them may not be able to find a new job on the same salary level. They may have to take whatever they can get. It’s life. Depending on how badly you need the job, your answer could be different.
“Yes. Salary is not my top priority. If your company offers advancement opportunities and other forms of compensation, I would be willing to consider a lesser salary.”
“I’m afraid not. I’ve worked extremely hard to achieve the level I’m at now, and I wouldn’t want to take a step backwards. I feel that, based on my experience and qualifications, my stated salary range is reasonable and in line with industry standards.”