Examples of How to Provide a Salary Range

Learn how to adequately discuss salary expectations with practical examples.
By Taylor

How to Provide a Salary Range Instead of a Specific Number

Discussing salary expectations during a job interview can be daunting. To ease this process, providing a salary range instead of a specific figure can demonstrate flexibility while also showcasing your knowledge of the market. Here are three practical examples to help you navigate this conversation with confidence.

Example 1: Research-Backed Salary Range

Context

You’re interviewing for a marketing manager position and the interviewer asks about your salary expectations. You want to provide a range that reflects your skill level and market research.

You can say:
“Based on my research and the current market trends for marketing managers in this region, I believe a salary range of $70,000 to $80,000 would be appropriate. This range reflects my experience in digital marketing and project management, and I am open to discussing this further based on the specific responsibilities of the role.”

Notes

  • Make sure to do your homework before the interview. Check salary websites like Glassdoor or Payscale for relevant data.
  • Tailor your range to the company’s location and industry for better accuracy.

Example 2: Emphasizing Flexibility

Context

During an interview for a software engineering position, the interviewer brings up salary. You want to express your flexibility while still indicating your worth.

You can say:
“I am looking for a competitive salary based on my experience and the skill set I bring to the table. I believe a range of $90,000 to $110,000 would be fair considering my background in software development and teamwork. However, I am flexible and willing to negotiate based on the overall compensation package and benefits the company offers.”

Notes

  • Highlight your willingness to negotiate. This can leave a positive impression and encourage further discussion about total compensation.
  • Be prepared for follow-up questions about your qualifications that justify your range.

Example 3: Highlighting Total Compensation

Context

You are in an interview for a project management role and the topic of salary comes up. You want to discuss your expectations while also considering other benefits.

You can say:
“Considering my experience in project management and the industry standards, I would expect a salary range of $80,000 to $95,000. However, I would also like to consider the full compensation package, including bonuses and benefits, as these are important to me. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and would love to discuss how we can find a mutually beneficial agreement.”

Notes

  • Mentioning the total compensation package allows you to open up a broader conversation about benefits, bonuses, and other perks.
  • This approach can lead to a more holistic discussion about what the company can offer beyond just salary.