HOW TO ANSWER THE SALARY QUESTION WITHOUT UNDERSELLING YOURSELF

Let's talk about one of the most uncomfortable but important parts of any job search:

The salary question.

You know the one: "What's your current salary?", "What are your expectations?"

Cue awkward pause.

If you've ever stumbled over your answer or worried that being honest might hurt your chances—or worse, your future paycheck—you're not alone.

So today, I'm sharing practical strategies to help you handle the salary conversation with confidence, without feeling like you've sold yourself short or stalled the process.

Why this matters

You don’t necessarily get paid what you deserve. You get paid what you ask for.

And yet, most job seekers feel unsure about how to handle this question. Some feel pressured to reveal everything upfront. Others throw out a number too early—and regret it later.

Here’s what I want you to remember: 

Salary is not just a number. It reflects the value your role brings to the business, the expectations you’ll carry, and how the company sees you. The higher the compensation, the more strategic and ownership-driven the role tends to be. So let’s get you paid fairly—without fumbling at the first question.

How to Handle the Salary Question (Without Losing Leverage)

1. Redirect the Conversation (With Grace) 

If a recruiter asks about your current or expected salary right away, say: 

"At this stage, I'm more focused on learning about the role and understandig how I can contribute. I'm confident that [Company] is a fair employer and will offer compensation aligned with the responsibilities. I'm happy to discuss salary once I've spoken with the hiring manager."

2. Ask Their Budget Instead

If the recruiter pushes back and says, "We don't want to waste time if there's a mismatch," agree with them—and flip the script:

"Absolutely, I appreciate that. Could you share the budgeted range for this role so I can ensure we're aligned?"

Most recruiters will have a number in mind (especially once the budget is approved), and many of my clients have used this exact approach to great success. 

3. If You Must Give a Number, Give a Range (Not Your Current Salary)

If they absolutely insist on a number before proceeding, offer a range based on your market research, not your current or past compensation:

"I'm currently exploring roles in the 120-140k range, based on the responsibilities and scope of the positions I've been speaking to."

Avoid stating your minimum. Aim a bit higher (about 5-10% above what you'd be happy with) to leave room for negotiation.

4. You Are Not Legally Required to Disclose Your Current Salary

This one is important.

In many regions including Singapore and several U.S states you are not legally required to disclose your current salary. Companies can ask, but you don't have to answer.

If they press further, you can say:

"I understand the need for transparency. However, my current salary is confidential to my employer. I'd be happy to share expectations once I understand the scope and level of the role."

 Most recruiters will respect that.

5. A Note of Caution: If They're Pushing Too Hard, Take It as a Signal

If you're at the recruiter stage and already jumping through hoops just to talk numbers, ask yourself:

"Is this the kind of company I want to work for?"

High-pressure tactics at this stage may be a red flag. And no job is worth undervaluing yourself for.

A Final Thought 

Even if money isn't your main motivator, the salary you accept affects how you're perceived internally. So this isn't just about pay—it's about positioning.

Know your value. Know the market. And don't let discomfort in the moment shrink your compensation or your confidence.

Until next week!

Shub

Your Career Growth Partner