The salary-expectations question is where job seekers tense up the most. Say too little and you undersell yourself; say too much and you fear being ruled out. The good news: the right approach removes this dilemma. In this guide we explain how to state your salary expectations both on your CV and in an interview, with example phrases.
Should you put salary expectations on your CV?
The rule is simple: if the advert doesn't ask, don't put it in. Salary is something to be discussed together at interview; putting an early figure on your CV can make you look either too expensive or too cheap and get you screened out before you even reach the interview stage.
If the advert explicitly says "please state your salary expectations", give a range rather than a single figure. A range shows flexibility and leaves room to negotiate.
Finding the right figure: research first
Before naming a figure, look at three sources:
- Current adverts for the same role and location (some publish a band).
- Contacts, mentors and former colleagues in your sector.
- Salary benchmarking tools and anonymous pay data.
Your experience, your location and the size of the company all shape the band. And when an offer arrives, to work out how much the rise really is you can use our free offer-check tool to see your real increase in 10 seconds.
What to say when the salary question comes up in the interview
The strongest answer has three parts: reference + range + flexibility.
"Based on the responsibilities of this role and my {X} years of experience, and the market research I've done, I'm looking in the region of £45,000–£52,000. I'm also happy to consider the total package, benefits and development opportunities alongside that."
This answer makes you look both clear and open to negotiation. Don't say "whatever you offer is fine" — it devalues you. And don't throw out a fantasy figure either — it looks out of touch with the market.
If they say "you tell us first"
If the company wants a figure from you first, don't be afraid to give the range. If you like, you can gently put the ball back in their court: "Do you have a budget range set aside for this role? That way I can pin down my own expectation accordingly." But if they insist, have a ready band.
Common mistakes
- Giving a single figure and closing off room to negotiate.
- Understating your current salary (it drags the new offer down too).
- Confusing gross and take-home pay — be clear which one you're discussing.
- Ignoring benefits (pension, bonus, private healthcare, travel).
Negotiation: after the offer arrives
The offer is the first figure, not the last. A polite but firm counter-offer usually works: "Thank you for the offer, I'm really keen on the role. Given my experience and the market band, it would be ideal for me if we could meet at £X." A counter-offer backed by concrete reasoning comes across as professional.
To prepare for the whole interview, take a look at our interview questions and answers guide too.
Walk into salary talks prepared
CVLayer's Salary Negotiation Coach prepares, step by step, what to ask for and how to say it based on your role and experience. When an offer arrives, work out your real increase instantly too.