How To Answer Salary Expectations In Job Interview?

ByRonan

When you’re interviewing for a job, one of the trickiest questions you’ll face is, “What are your salary expectations?” Many candidates worry about asking for too much and being screened out, or asking for too little and undervaluing themselves. The good news is: with preparation, you can answer this question confidently, show your professionalism, and negotiate fairly.

This guide will walk you through why employers ask about salary, how to prepare your response, and the best strategies for navigating this moment in an interview.

How to Frame Your Answer

When asked “What are your salary expectations?”, you can follow these steps:

1. Show Flexibility

Start by expressing openness. Example:

“I’m open to discussing compensation and more interested in finding a role that fits my skills and allows me to grow.”

2. Provide a Range (Not a Single Number)

Give a range that reflects both your research and your comfort level. Example:

“Based on my research and experience, I believe a fair range for this role would be between ₱35,000 and ₱45,000 per month.”

This approach signals that you’re informed but flexible.

3. Consider the Whole Package

Don’t focus only on take-home pay. Ask about allowances, bonuses, health insurance, and other benefits. Sometimes a slightly lower base salary is balanced by good benefits.

4. Be Honest but Strategic

Never understate your worth just to get the job. At the same time, avoid quoting an unrealistic figure that’s far above market rate.

Salary Expectations

Example Answers for Different Situations

Entry-level roles may offer modest pay, while specialized fields can provide significantly higher compensation. Professionals aiming for financial growth often target industries that feature the Highest Paying Jobs, where expertise and advanced qualifications are rewarded with competitive salaries.

  • Entry-level applicant:
    “I’m open to a compensation package that’s aligned with industry standards for entry-level positions, which I understand is around ₱20,000 to ₱25,000 per month.”

  • Mid-career professional:
    “Considering my five years of experience in accounting and the market range of ₱30,000 to ₱40,000, I would expect something within that bracket.”

  • Specialized role (IT, engineering, finance):
    “For this specialized role, I believe ₱60,000 to ₱70,000 per month would be competitive, based on current industry benchmarks.”

Research Before Naming a Number

The key to answering this question is preparation. You’ll need to back your expectations with real data.

  • Know the market range: According to diffwerent Salary Report, the average monthly salary in Metro Manila is around ₱25,000–₱30,000, while highly specialized roles in IT, finance, or engineering can go as high as ₱50,000–₱80,000.

  • Check industry-specific rates: For example:

    • Customer service agents: ₱18,000–₱25,000/month

    • Nurses: ₱20,000–₱30,000/month (public sector rates may be lower)

    • Software developers: ₱40,000–₱70,000/month depending on experience

  • Factor in location: Jobs in Metro Manila usually pay more than in provincial areas, but the cost of living is also higher.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I give my exact salary expectation in the first interview?

No. It’s better to provide a range or express flexibility at first. Reserve specific figures for later stages when the employer is seriously considering you.

What if the employer insists I name a figure?

Give a researched range. This shows you’ve done your homework and helps keep negotiations open.

Is it okay to ask about benefits before stating salary expectations?

Yes. Asking about allowances, bonuses, and other perks is reasonable, since these can greatly affect the total compensation package.

How do I avoid pricing myself too low?

Research average salaries using platforms or government labor data. Compare with your skills, years of experience, and location.

Can I negotiate if the offer is below my expectation?

Yes. Politely explain your reasons, citing your skills, certifications, or market data. If they can’t meet your request, ask if there’s room for future salary reviews.

Answering salary expectation questions in a Philippine job interview is about preparation, balance, and confidence. If you research the market, know your worth, and stay flexible, you’ll handle the question smoothly. Remember, the right employer will value both your skills and your potential, not just the figure you name.

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