re: "What are your salary expectations?"

quote:

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But then I'm stuck thinking that if I go too low, hiring managers will think I'm not aware of the scope of the job, doubly so because changing careers "We normally pay 45k for this but he's asking for 35k, he must think this is a different job".

Add in that I live in a low COL area and the new prevalence of remote work...I have barely any idea what market rate looks like anymore.

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Never ever go into an interview without researching the position you’re there for. It’s easy to look to find the average salary for “X” position you’re interviewing for. Use the job description and tasks the company lists and research it. It’s not hard and can be done quick.

The last thing you want to do is lowball yourself because if you do, a lot of managers conclude maybe this person lacks skill sets, confidence and self worth.

I hate it for all the folks whose careers have been derailed because of Covid. It’s understandable that someone would be desperate that they low ball themselves even though they’re just trying to do whatever it takes to get to work thinking that if they answer with a low number, it’ll improve your chances of being hired which really isn’t the case. Just do your homework on compensation and be confident. When asked, there’s nothing wrong with stating your salary expectation is on the higher end of the spectrum of that job title if you have solid experience. Give them the dollar amount and a lot of times it’ll be close to what they are actually willing to pay if you’ve done your research.

As far as someone who is already employed but another company wants to interview you for the same position, always ask for a little more than what you’re currently making otherwise your just making a lateral move. There are exceptions though. If the company you’re currently at is showing signs of struggling and it looks like layoffs could be coming within a couple months or the work environment has become toxic, there’s nothing wrong with making that lateral move even if the money is slightly less. What matters most in a situation like this is which would make you happier or be less stressed.

For all of you that have had your careers derailed, hang in there and keep plugging away and you’ll end up finding the right opportunity. I have a lot of respect for the folks that get up everyday looking for and applying for jobs so they can get back in the work and aren’t content with the little bit of unemployment from the state with the extra money the feds tack on. There are way too many people who are just tickled to death getting $600 a week not to work and plan on milking it until the fed assistance cuts off. I’ll get downvoted for this but God will bless those that want to work are actively looking for work.