Salary Aspirations. How to Answer this Question During a Job Interview

The question about salary aspirations was always a tricky one for me to answer during a job interview. And if you are anything like me, you might also feel unsure of how much you should ask for, and sometimes you can be afraid of appearing too greedy or too modest. It is important to remember that discussing salary is a crucial part of securing a fair and transparent job offer. In this blog post, we will explore strategies for preparing for the salary question, navigating the gender pay gap, and utilising innovative new tools to access salary data in a way that empowers you to negotiate effectively.

Do your Preparation:

The first step in feeling confident addressing salary aspirations in a job interview is preparation. Research the average salary range for the position you are applying for in your geographic location and level of experience. This will give you a clear benchmark that you can use as a basis for negotiation. Familiarise yourself with the company’s benefits package and understand the range of benefits offered in similar positions at other companies. This will help you make an informed decision when negotiating salary and benefits. Remember, the key to effective negotiation is knowing your worth and being able to effectively articulate the unique value you bring to an organisation.

Utilise Innovative Salary Comparison Tools:

An innovative online tool that is making waves in the salary transparency arena is What’s the Salary created by Tony Lu. This website aggregates salary data for jobs listed on seek.com.au in an effort to promote equal, transparent and fair salaries regardless of age, gender, and tenure. This tool can be an incredibly useful resource for job seekers to gain insight into the average salary range for a specific position or company. Use this information to equip yourself with data-driven negotiation points and feel confident in your ability to negotiate effectively.

Addressing the Gender Pay Gap:

Unfortunately, women still experience a significant gender pay gap in many industries. According to the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, currently, the national gender pay gap sits at 13.4%. This means that, on average, women earn $251.20 less than men per week. As a woman, this can be an uncomfortable and frustrating reality to navigate. When discussing salary in a job interview, it is important to be aware of the gender pay gap in your industry and level of experience. Work with salary data to ensure that you are being paid equitably and do not be afraid to negotiate for the salary you deserve.

Be Direct:

When discussing salary expectations in a job interview, it can be tempting to beat around the bush or avoid the topic altogether. However, it is important to remember that in order to receive a fair and transparent job offer, you must be direct about your salary expectations. Avoid using vague or non-committal language when discussing salary and do not be afraid to ask for what you deserve. Be clear about your salary expectations and be prepared for a negotiation.

As a migrant woman, discussing salary aspirations in a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, with preparation and access to innovative new salary comparison tools, you can navigate the process with confidence. 

By Fabiola Campbell – Founder PMW