Questions about Pay in 3 applications (2024)

FAQs

How do you answer a pay question on an application? ›

Since most online applications these days force you to fill in the answer, you're going to have to give them something. But instead of providing a number, try writing “negotiable,” or “market rate.” If you're forced to put in a number, try giving a salary range.

Say you're flexible.

You can try to skirt the question with a broad answer, such as, “My salary expectations are in line with my experience and qualifications.” Or, “If this is the right job for me, I'm sure we can come to an agreement on salary.” This will show that you're willing to negotiate.

$20 an hour is how much a year? If you make $20 an hour, your yearly salary would be $41,600.

If you're asked for your salary expectations, you could deflect by saying “What do you usually pay someone in this position?” or “I'd like to learn more about the role before I set my salary expectations. I would hope that my salary would line up with market rates for similar positions in this area.”

If you do discuss compensation, I recommend speaking in terms of a range rather than a specific dollar amount. This will give you some flexibility as the interview process progresses. Consider putting the number you want at the lower end of the range, and then going up 5-10% from there.

A: Questions like “What was the average annual percentage raise last year?” and “What percentage raise did your highest performers enjoy last year?” provide insight into how the company rewards performance.

Once you have been offered a job position, you can use this to your advantage to negotiate your starting salary. Consider asking for a salary that is five to ten thousand above the original offer and see what your prospective employer can offer you in terms of higher pay.

However, some of the best answers can include: To make a positive impact and contribute to society in a meaningful way. To achieve personal and professional growth, and to continuously learn and develop new skills. To find balance between work and life, and to lead a fulfilling and contented life.

Answer “what is your greatest weakness” by choosing a skill that is not essential to the job you're applying to and by stressing exactly how you're practically addressing your weakness. Some skills that you can use as weaknesses include impatience, multitasking, self-criticism, and procrastination.

If you do discuss compensation, I recommend speaking in terms of a range rather than a specific dollar amount. This will give you some flexibility as the interview process progresses. Consider putting the number you want at the lower end of the range, and then going up 5-10% from there.

How to deflect salary expectation question? ›

Sidestep the Question

If salary history isn't a part of the question and they just want to know your expectations, you can sidestep by saying that you'd like to hear more details about the job and the company's goals and strategies before discussing your salary expectations.