Each Tuesday, the CSE Connect “Top Interviewing Questions Series” will highlight a different question from the CSE Top Interviewing Questions Guide, detailing 1) How the question is typically asked, 2) Why interviewers tend to ask the question and what the interviewer is looking for when asking the question, and 3) Tips for a successful response.
This week’s question is : “What are your salary requirements/expectations?”
How the Question is Typically Asked/Common Variations
- What are your salary requirements/expectations?
- What salary range were you expecting for this role?
Why Do Interviewers Ask/What are their Expectations
Before they invest time and resources courting you to come work for them, the company wants to confirm that there is alignment between your salary expectations and the company’s defined salary range for this role. Regardless of how much you would like (or need) to earn, your response needs to demonstrate that you understand the typical salaries for this field.
Tips for Success
First things first, it’s important to know the going rate for jobs in your field and in your job market. These can be researched on websites like payscale.com, glassdoor.com or salary.com.
Arrive at a reasonable salary range based on market value and your current or most recent salary.
Answer template: “Well, according to my research and past experience, my understanding is that 75K to 90K per year is typical based on the role and requirements. I would expect to be at the higher end of the range, what do you suggest?”
For practice with this question please visit: Big Interview > Practice > General
Visit the CSE Top Interviewing Questions Guide for more information regarding top general interview questions!
