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Most people either name a number that is too low or freeze when an interviewer asks about pay. A little preparation fixes both.
The Get Hired Faster System covers your resume, your interview answers and salary negotiations, with 22 resources in one place.
Interviewers ask this early to check whether you fit the budget before they spend more time on you. The first number said out loud also tends to anchor the rest of the conversation, so it pays to be ready.
Before you answer: 10 minutes of prep
Check the salary range in the job posting, if there is one.
Look up similar roles on salary sites and ask people in your network.
Decide two numbers: your target, and the lowest offer you would accept.
Three scripts
1. Early on, before you know the role well
"I'd like to learn more about the role and what it involves before naming a number. Could you share the range you have budgeted for this position?"
2. If they push for a number
"Based on my research for this type of role and my experience, I'm looking at [your range]. I'm flexible depending on the full package."
Set the bottom of your range at a number you would be happy to accept, not your lowest possible one.
3. When they give you a range first
"That's close to what I had in mind. Given [specific experience or result], I'd be more comfortable toward the upper end."
Mistakes that cost money
Naming a number before you have done any research
Giving one low number instead of a range
Apologising or saying "whatever you think is fair"
Sharing your current salary. In many places employers are not allowed to ask, and you can politely steer back to the role.
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Practice it out loud
These scripts only work if they come out naturally. Say each one out loud a few times until it feels like your own words. The AI Interview Coach lets you rehearse and review your answers anytime.
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What Is the Hardest Part of Talking About Pay?
Hit reply and tell me. I will send back a script for your situation.