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15 Toughest Interview Questions (and Answers!)
Tania Khadder | GovCentral
7. What salary are you looking for?
Bad answer:
“In my last job I earned $35,000 – so, now I’m looking for $40,000”
If you can avoid it, don’t give an exact number. The first person to name a price in a salary negotiation loses. Instead, re-iterate your commitment to the job itself. If you have to, give a broad range based on research you’ve conducted on that particular role, in your particular city. If the role is with a non-independent agency and therefore must us the GS Pay Schedule, think of ways to talk yourself up the scale.
Good answer:
“I’m more interested in the role itself than the pay. That said, I’d expect to be paid the appropriate range for this role, based on my five years of experience. I also think a fair salary would bear in mind the high cost of living here in New York City. Further, I think my education and background can make me at the highest Step in my Grade.”
“In my last job I earned $35,000 – so, now I’m looking for $40,000”
If you can avoid it, don’t give an exact number. The first person to name a price in a salary negotiation loses. Instead, re-iterate your commitment to the job itself. If you have to, give a broad range based on research you’ve conducted on that particular role, in your particular city. If the role is with a non-independent agency and therefore must us the GS Pay Schedule, think of ways to talk yourself up the scale.
Good answer:
“I’m more interested in the role itself than the pay. That said, I’d expect to be paid the appropriate range for this role, based on my five years of experience. I also think a fair salary would bear in mind the high cost of living here in New York City. Further, I think my education and background can make me at the highest Step in my Grade.”
