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K. W. asked the community

Should I answer a salary question or defer it?

Interviews Asked Active 6 Aug 2026
Question details

The recruiter asked for my expected salary before discussing responsibilities; should I give a range or ask for their budget first?

Community responses

1 Answer

  1. Abigail Lopez

    Ask for their budget first, while signaling you’re open to a fair discussion. Try: “Before I anchor us, could you share the approved range for the role?”

    - If they provide it, confirm whether it aligns with your target and discuss total compensation.
    - If they won’t, give a range based on market research, with a floor you’d genuinely accept.

    Don’t give a number you’d resent accepting if they treat it as your ceiling.

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