What is Basic Pay? (2024)

FAQs

How do you answer do you have any basic salary requirements? ›

Consider giving a salary range, not a number

But that doesn't mean the employer won't ask about salary requirements during the initial contact. If a job post asks applicants to state their expected salary when applying for the position, then give a range — not a specific figure — you're comfortable with.

A simple example response could be, "I'm seeking a position with a base salary of $45,000 to $55,000." Another example would be, "I'm looking for a base salary roughly between $90,000 and $95,000 annually.

All you have to do is say that you're open to negotiating the salary when the hiring manager asks, “What is your salary expectation?” Follow up by letting them know you understand that salary is more than compensation and the dollar amount you desire can be varied based upon available benefits.

Sample answer 1: be honest but state your requirements

This gives the interviewer an idea of your salary expectations, while highlighting that you are looking to secure a higher salary. It also shows you have done your research, which underlines your commitment to the process.

When answering desired salary or expected salary questions on an application, the best approach is to write in “negotiable” or keep the field blank. If a numerical response is required, enter “000” and in a notes section, mention that salary is negotiable based on further understanding of the position.

“Thank you so much for the offer. I'm really excited about the company and the role. I want to be upfront with you that the salary is lower than I was expecting based on my skills and experience.

What is an expected salary? Your expected salary is the annual compensation you request employers pay you. A candidate typically requests this compensation prior to accepting a job. When setting your salary expectations, you may consider your past salaries and previous work experience.

If you're asked for your salary expectations, you could deflect by saying “What do you usually pay someone in this position?” or “I'd like to learn more about the role before I set my salary expectations. I would hope that my salary would line up with market rates for similar positions in this area.”

Here are a few example answers to “What's your desired salary?”: I don't have a specific number in mind, but I'd expect to be paid what you think is fair based on the industry standard and my level of experience. I don't have a concrete number in mind. What do you have budgeted for this position?

$20 an hour is how much a year? If you make $20 an hour, your yearly salary would be $41,600.

How much is $17 an hour annually? ›

If you make $17 an hour, your yearly salary would be $35,360.

As author and career development expert Vicky Oliver explains, “Employers will always ask this question because every position is budgeted, and they want to ensure your expectations are consistent with that budget before moving forward.”

Q1: How do I answer the question, "Why should we hire you? A: When answering, focus on your relevant skills, experience, and achievements that make you the best fit for the role.You should hire me because I am a hard worker who wants to help your company succeed.

I'm really excited about the company and the role. I want to be upfront with you that the salary is lower than I was expecting based on my skills and experience. I'd like to be at a number more like $X. I'm really interested in this opportunity and would love to make this work with you.”

My first inclination (almost always) is to just be upfront, to say via email, “Thanks for your interest! I wanted to let you know your target salary is well outside our range for this position. If that's not firm, I'd love to discuss the role further with you, but if it is, I don't want to waste your time.” Thoughts?