How to Answer Desired Salary on Online Application, According to Reddit
Applying for jobs online can be daunting, especially when you come across the dreaded “desired salary” question. You want to showcase your worth, but you also don’t want to price yourself out of the running. Redditors have shared their experiences and advice on how to navigate this tricky situation.
When it comes to disclosing your desired salary, there are two main schools of thought on Reddit. Some believe in being upfront and honest about your expectations, while others advocate for a more strategic approach.
The Argument for Transparency
Proponents of transparency argue that it’s best to be upfront about your salary expectations. This approach avoids any surprises down the road and demonstrates that you’re confident in your worth. Moreover, it can help you weed out companies that don’t fall within your desired range.
Example: If you’re applying for a position that you believe is worth around $70,000 annually, you could state your desired salary as “$70,000 per year.” This clearly communicates your expectations and shows that you’ve researched the industry.
The Argument for Strategy
Those who advocate for a more strategic approach argue that leaving your salary expectations open-ended gives you more negotiating power. By not disclosing your desired salary, you allow the company to make an offer first. You can then use this as a starting point for negotiations.
Example: Instead of stating your desired salary, you could respond with something like: “I’m confident that my experience and skills make me a valuable candidate for this position. I’m open to discussing salary expectations once I’ve had a chance to learn more about the role and the company’s compensation structure.”
Tips and Expert Advice
Regardless of which approach you choose, there are a few tips and pieces of expert advice to keep in mind:
- Research industry benchmarks: Use websites like Glassdoor and Salary.com to get an idea of what similar positions in your industry and location typically pay.
- Consider your experience and skills: Your experience and qualifications should play a role in determining your desired salary. If you have extensive experience or specialized skills, you may be able to command a higher salary than someone with less experience.
- Be prepared to negotiate: In most cases, the salary you’re offered will not be your final salary. Be prepared to negotiate and be willing to compromise to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Don’t be afraid to walk away: If you’re not offered a salary that meets your expectations, don’t be afraid to walk away. There are other jobs out there, and you shouldn’t settle for less than you’re worth.
FAQs
- Q: Should I always disclose my desired salary on an online application?
A: It depends on your personal preference and the industry norms. Some believe in being transparent, while others advocate for a more strategic approach that leaves room for negotiation. - Q: What should I do if I don’t know what salary to request?
A: Research industry benchmarks and consider your experience and skills. You can also consult with a recruiter or career counselor for guidance. - Q: How can I negotiate my salary effectively?
A: Be prepared to discuss your salary expectations, but also be willing to compromise. Be confident in your worth and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not offered a fair salary.
Conclusion
Navigating the “desired salary” question on online applications can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that there is no one right answer. By understanding the pros and cons of both transparency and strategy, and by following the tips provided above, you can approach this situation with confidence and increase your chances of securing a salary that you’re happy with.
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