Salary question - how should I have answered?

[Lizzie523]

I had an interview today and I don't feel I answered this well.

I was asked my salary expectations and I simply answered that the range they gave in the job advert is what I'm looking for (27-30k). I have a feeling if I am offered the job, I will simply be offered the lowest amount. I admit I'm not overly money driven but I should have a better answer than this.

How would you have answered? I'm in my 20s so still at an early-ish career stage.

You can negotiate salary if offered the job so don’t worry.

Ok @Astronaut8.

I gave a similarly rubbish answer in my last job and they offered my a figure in between. I don't think it looks great to sound wishy washy about it.

If the band is near my current salary, I would have said it needs to be worth my while to move. I’ve always been offered a token amount above the advertised top band. Say £1k a year.

So the minimum amount being offered is actually 3k more than I earn currently.

Probably why I didn't think to push it more or be more assertive/thoughtful about it

@Lizzie523

Ok *@Astronaut8*.

I gave a similarly rubbish answer in my last job and they offered my a figure in between. I don't think it looks great to sound wishy washy about it.

Well why didn’t you give a figure instead of the job advert figures?

‘While the role and company are more important than salary, I’m interviewing for roles between £X and £X’

To be honest I have minimal experience with this @Astronaut8. That is why I'm asking!

I feel like I maybe haven't given a great impression by not being assertive. I suppose I dont want to ask for something they don't want to give because the entire salary range is better than what I have now.

It is the first interview I've had in a while - it did sound like I am going to get a second interview so I suppose they might ask me again. I'll prepare a better answer!

Whilst salary is obviously important they’ll be more interested in your experience, qualifications, what you can bring to the company at this stage.
Salary will be discussed later down the line, if you feel you deserve more you tell them that.

One way to answer it is, "I'm looking for a minimum of (mid advertised range), but am flexible"

This sets an expectation in their minds of paying at least the middle of the range - which they are clearly happy to pay or they wouldn't have advertised it! That way, even if they do pay you at the bottom of the range they will have to justify it - you have minimum experience for instance, but it also then opens the discussion for pay rises in the (near) future.

Sorry that should say "I'm flexible depending on the benefits"

Asked for and got a higher wage recently.

When asked why I replied, "I have a lot of experience and would be foolish not to". With a smile.

Men ask. Women should too.

I always go with I’m looking for between X and Y as a base salary dependant on overall package. Most places are happy with a range and understand the difference that pension, holiday, commute and other benefits make.

Another tactic - could also, as part of the negotiations say
“...after successful completion of the probationary period, would you consider raising the full time salary from x to y”?