When entering the interview room, surely you have prepared yourself with a good CV and answers. One of the questions you will also face is "What salary do you expect?". This simple question often makes many people nervous during job interview. However, your answer can be the difference between getting your dream job or losing the opportunity. Reporting from Jobstreet, interviewer usually ask about the expected salary to find out the extent to which you know your own worth, experience and skills you have. This question can also help interviewer get the job they are looking for. So, how to answer it appropriately and confidently? Don't worry! This article will provide some effective tips to get the salary you expect appropriately. Let's check this out!
1. Conduct research first
You can do your research first by finding out the average salary for the same position at another company or competitor, as well as doing an online search such as on JobStreet or glassdoor. You can also get salary references by asking friends or connections who work in the industry. In addition, it is important to know the Regional Minimum Wage (UMR) at the location of the company you are applying to and understand the minimum amount needed for living expenses to determine your expected salary.
2. Provide an explanation of why the interviewer should choose you
Before talking about salary, make sure you explain your abilities and skills first. Share your experience and expertise in previous companies, such as winning awards as the best employee. You can show a certificate to support your achievement. If you are a fresh graduate, then you can tell your experiences and expertise while on campus or internships, for example actively participating in organizations or other achievements. After making sure that you are the best candidate, then talk about the expected salary. Eitss! Don't rush, you can wait for the interviewer to ask directly about salary, or ask about the appropriate salary range when you are given the opportunity to ask the interviewer.
3. Provide a salary range
Give an answer with an expected salary range rather than a specific figure. An answer in the form of a salary range can leave room for negotiation. The interviewer can consider the salary based on the answers given. But make sure your answers are realistic and based on your experience and expertise. Also make sure the salary range you give is not too far. Reporting from Jobstreet, raising your expected salary slightly by around 10% to 20% of your desired salary can help you achieve the desired salary even if later the interviewer offers a lower amount.
According to Jobstreet, you also need to mention that the salary range you give is negotiable. The extent to which you can negotiate with the interviewer is also based on the value you offer the company. If you are a fresh graduate, you can use your achievements during college as a support for the salary answer you expect during the interview. As an additional tip, you can use the 50/30/20 rule, which means that 50% of your salary is used for daily needs, 30% is used for entertainment, and 20% is for savings. That way, you have a savings fund that can be used at a later time.
Here's an example of how to answer it if asked by the interviewer about the salary you want:
“Based on my research regarding market value and needs, and aligning them with my competencies and skills, I propose a salary range of Rp (…) to Rp (…). However, the offered salary is negotiable as I am very interested in contributing to this company. I hope you will consider it.”
4. State your previous salary and inquire about other benefits
For those of you who have worked, sometimes the interviewer will ask about the salary you received at the previous company. This can help the interviewer set a salary that suits you more precisely. This way it can also be easier to convey the expected salary answer during the interview. Remember! Salary is very confidential and you should not tell it to others. If you want to convey your latest salary for the interviewer to consider, you can convey it in a range number, not an exact number.
In addition to salary, asking for additional benefits in the company you are applying for is also an important factor in your career considerations! For example, health insurance/BPJS kesehatan, performance bonuses, opportunities for career development, pension plans, or other facilities that can improve your welfare and job satisfaction. By knowing about additional benefits, you can make better decisions about the total value of compensation received from the company, not just the base salary.
By strategizing the right salary question, you can ensure that you not only achieve a decent salary, but also create opportunities for long-term growth and success in your career. Hopefully, this article has provided useful tips. Best wishes for success in your career journey!
Sources:
3 Ways To Answer "What Are Your Salary Expectations?" | Indeed.com
4 Tips Cara Menjawab Gaji yang Diharapkan - JobStreet Indonesia
5 Cara Menjawab Berapa Gaji yang Anda Inginkan dalam Interview! | CakeResume
8 Cara Negosiasi Gaji saat Interview Kerja Beserta Contohnya! (skillacademy.com)
How to Answer “What Are Your Salary Expectations?” | The Muse