How to Answer "What Are Your Salary Expectations?"

By RuleForge · Updated June 2026 · 5 min read

The salary question is the single most expensive moment in an interview. Whoever says the first number usually loses. Here's exactly what to say — and what to avoid.

The Golden Rule: Never Be the First to Name a Number

If you name a number first, you lose. If your number is below their budget, you've just left money on the table. If it's above, you might get screened out before you can prove your value. The goal is to get them to share their range first.

Why This Works

• It's polite and collaborative — not evasive or confrontational
• It flips the question back to them — and they almost always have a budget
• "Total compensation" signals you're sophisticated (base + bonus + equity + benefits), so they won't lowball on base alone
• It buys you time to finish the interview process before committing

What to Do If They Push for a Number

Sometimes the recruiter won't let it go. They might say "We don't have a set range yet" or "We need a number to move forward." In that case, give a range — and set the low end at your target, not your minimum.

Key principle: Set the low end of your range at what would make you happy — not at what you'd accept. The midpoint of the range becomes the anchor for every conversation that follows.

How to Research Your Market Value

Before any salary conversation, you need data. Here's where to find it:

1. Levels.fyi — Tech salary data, transparent and crowdsourced
2. Glassdoor / Payscale — Broader market data (less accurate but useful for benchmarks)
3. LinkedIn Salary — Role-specific data by location
4. Built In — Startup and tech-specific salary ranges
5. Your network — Ask people in similar roles what range is realistic

Research total compensation, not just base salary. A $130K base with 20% bonus and $50K equity is very different from a $140K base with no bonus.

The Biggest Mistakes

1. Naming your current salary. In many places, it's illegal for them to ask. If they do, redirect: "I'm focused on the market rate for this role."
2. Giving a single number. Always give a range. It shows flexibility and keeps negotiation open.
3. Negotiating before you have an offer. Early salary discussions are screening, not negotiation. Don't hardball until they want you.
4. Not researching. "I'm not sure what's typical" is the worst possible answer. Know your number before the call.

What About Online Forms That Require a Number?

Many application portals force you to enter a salary expectation. Enter the bottom of your acceptable range (not your target). This prevents being screened out while leaving room to negotiate up once they want you.