When to discuss salary
It’s absolutely appropriate, and preferable, to begin discussing salary AFTER you’ve been offered a position. However, some employers may ask for your salary requirements early on in the process (in your resume or cover letter) in order to weed out overqualified candidates. If this is the case, put down a reasonable salary range rather than one firm number.
It’s best if the employer names a figure first. Otherwise, you run the risk of naming a figure lower than what they were willing to pay or an unreasonably high amount. If they want you to name a salary first, try redirecting it back to them:
- Ask what the typical range is for others with this position in the company.
- Ask what range they have budgeted for this position.
- Let them know that you will consider any reasonable offer.
How much to ask for
