How to answer "What are your salary expectations?"
It arrives casually, usually two-thirds of the way through a pleasant screening call:
"Great. And just so we're aligned, what are you looking for, salary-wise?"
And most people say some version of:
"Oh, um, I'm pretty flexible. Whatever's fair for the role?"
It feels polite and safe. It's neither. The recruiter now has to write something in their notes, and they'll guess. Guess high and you're "probably too expensive". Guess low and the offer is anchored there for good.
What is the recruiter really asking?
"Are we in the same range, or am I wasting both our time?" It's a filter, not a negotiation. The negotiation comes with the offer. Right now you just need to be in range, with room at the top.
Do your homework first
Ten minutes before the call:
- Check two or three salary sites for this title, level and city.
- Look at job posts for similar roles that list a range.
- Ask someone in a similar role, if you can.
Then set your range: the bottom is a number you'd genuinely accept, the top is ambitious but defensible.
Suggested answers
Give a range and check it
"Based on what I'm seeing for similar roles in Pune, I'm looking at 18 to 22 lakh. Is that in line with your budget?"
It's specific, it's researched, and it ends with a question so the recruiter has to respond.
Ask for their range first
"I'd love to hear the range you've budgeted for this role first. I'm sure we can find something that works if the fit's right."
Many recruiters will simply tell you. If they do, you've learned the ceiling without showing your hand.
If they push for your number
"Fair enough. For this scope, somewhere between 18 and 22 feels right, depending on the total package."
Don't refuse twice. It starts to sound like hiding.
Asked about your current salary
"I'd rather focus on what this role is worth. Based on the responsibilities, I'm looking at 18 to 22."
In some places employers can't legally ask your current pay. Either way, you don't have to anchor on it.
Switching careers or stepping down
"I know I'm moving into a new field, so I'm realistic. Something around 9 to 11 works for me, and I'd expect that to grow as I prove myself."
What should you avoid?
- "I'm flexible." Sounds polite, works against you.
- A single number. It becomes the ceiling.
- A range with a bottom you'd hate. They'll offer the bottom.
- Apologising for the number. Say it like a fact.
Say it out loud before the call
This sounds silly, but it works. People who have said their number aloud once say it calmly on the call. People who haven't tend to blurt, hedge or drop it. Our screening call guide shows how this moment derails a whole call.
Quick answers
Should I give a number or a range?
A range, with the bottom set at a number you'd genuinely accept. A single number tends to become the ceiling.
Is it okay to ask for their budget first?
Yes. "Could you share the range you've budgeted?" is a normal question, and many recruiters will answer it.
What if I don't know what to ask for?
Spend ten minutes on salary sites and job posts with listed ranges for the same title, level and city.
Do I have to tell them my current salary?
Usually not. You can redirect to what this role is worth, and in some places employers can't legally ask.
When does salary negotiation actually happen?
At the offer stage. The screening question is just a check that you're in range.
Thanks for letting us know.