How To Answer: “What Are Your Salary Expectations?”
The key to handling this question lies in finding a balance between valuing your skills and experience while aligning expectations with the employer's budget.
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM
Updated on 2024-10-23 at 8:46 AM
How to Answer “What Are Your Salary Expectations?” as a Malaysian Job seeker
Answering the salary expectations interview question can feel daunting for many job seekers in Malaysia, where discussing compensation may be uncomfortable. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, you might find yourself unsure of how to answer salary expectations in job interviews without selling yourself short or pricing yourself out of a job.
Why Employers Ask About Salary Expectations
Before diving into how to answer, it's important to understand why interviewers ask this question. Employers want to gauge whether your salary expectations align with the company’s budget. They also want to see if you’ve researched industry standards and understand your own worth in the market. In Malaysia, salary transparency isn’t always common, so the responsibility often falls on you to navigate this tricky conversation.
1. Know the Market Rates
The best way to answer salary expectations starts with preparation. Research the average salary for your position in Malaysia, taking into account your experience level, skills, and the industry you're in. For example, data analysts can look forward to earning as much as RM92,000 annually with 10 to 19 years of work experience.
When you’re asked, “What are your salary expectations?”, you can confidently give a range based on your research. For example, you might say,
“Based on my research and understanding of the market, a salary range between RM3,500 to RM4,500 seems fair for this position and my level of experience.”
2. Provide a Salary Range, Not a Fixed Number
Giving a salary range instead of a specific figure offers flexibility to both you and the employer. This shows that you are open to salary negotiation while still communicating your expectations.
When discussing salary expectations with the interviewer, make sure the lower end of your salary range is still an amount you’re comfortable accepting. You can say something along the lines of,
“I’m flexible, but based on the responsibilities and my experience, I believe a range of RM5,000 to RM6,000 would be appropriate.”
This approach helps you avoid dealing with salary expectations questions in a way that feels limiting or rigid, making you seem adaptable while maintaining your worth.
3. Delay the Salary Discussion Until You Understand the Job Fully
In some cases, it's best to delay answering the salary question until you've learned more about the job's responsibilities. This strategy is especially helpful if the interviewer asks this question early in the conversation, before you've had a chance to explore what the role entails.
You could say, “I’d love to learn more about the specific responsibilities of the role first to ensure my expectations are aligned with the job. Can we discuss compensation after I have a clearer understanding of what the position involves?”
By postponing the discussion, you give yourself more time to assess whether the job fits your career goals, which will make it easier to answer when the time comes.
Joining communities of like-minded professionals can provide insights into what to expect in various industries. For example, we have recently launched a platform for driven individuals to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other’s career journeys. Conversations with peers about roles and industries can prepare you to confidently approach salary discussions with a clearer understanding of market expectations.
4. Consider Total Compensation, Not Just Salary
When answering salary expectations in a job interview, it's important to think about the entire compensation package, not just the base salary. Benefits such as employee insurance, bonuses, allowances, and flexible work arrangements can all add significant value.
If the salary offered is slightly lower than expected, you can ask if there’s room for additional perks or benefits. For example,
“While the base salary is slightly below what I was hoping for, could we discuss additional benefits such as a performance bonus or flexible working hours?”
This approach not only shows that you’re willing to negotiate, but it also highlights your focus on long-term growth rather than just immediate compensation.
Understanding your unique working style can also guide you in identifying roles that fit your needs beyond compensation. This way, you can prioritise positions and perks that truly align with your goals for career growth and satisfaction.
5. Turn the Question Around if You're Unsure
If you’re unsure what the budget is for the role, you can politely turn the question back to the employer. This can be an effective way to ensure your expectations are in line with theirs.
You could ask,
“I’m flexible, and I’d love to know what the budget is for this role so I can align my expectations with the company’s compensation structure.”
This allows you to gain insight into what the employer is willing to offer, and you can tailor your response accordingly.
6. Be Honest but Strategic
Honesty is crucial when answering salary questions, but so is strategy. If you’re currently earning a lower salary than the market rate, this is your opportunity to aim for a salary that reflects your true worth.
For example, you could say,
“My current salary is RM3,500, but based on my increased responsibilities and the skills I’ve developed, I’m looking for compensation closer to RM4,500 to RM5,000.”
By being transparent, you show integrity, but by providing a strategic range, you communicate your desire for growth.
Conclusion
Answering the salary expectations interview question doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With the right preparation and mindset, you can confidently discuss your compensation in a way that reflects your value while remaining open to negotiation.
Now that you’re prepared to tackle the salary expectations question, it’s time to explore opportunities that align with your goals. Head over to Hiredly's Job Portal and discover roles that match your skills and aspirations!
By Kimberly Chang on 2023-11-27 at 7:12 AM