Do you want to maximize your salary during a job interview? A simple well -placed sentence could make all the difference and it is a recruiter who says it …
Talking about salary, a step dreaded by many during interviews. Between the fear of asking too much and that of underestimating oneself, the balance is difficult to find. Lee Harding, recruiter with almost 20 years of experience, then wanted to share his practical advice to help candidates prepare better and be more confident in this context. His golden rule? A key sentence.
Indeed, many candidates make the mistake of revealing the salary of their previous post. According to Lee Harding, this approach plays against them: “When you say, for example, that you currently earn 60,000 euros and now want 70,000 euros, the employer simply hears that you will accept any offer above 60,000 euros”, he explains.
In reality, this revelation places an invisible ceiling on negotiation. The employer knows that he can offer a figure lower than your expectations, but greater than your current salary, and you will probably be tempted to accept. A risky strategy, therefore, for the candidate who aspires to an income in line with his skills and experiences.
Rather than answering the question directly on your salary expectations, Lee Harding offers a more effective alternative: to return the question to the employer. By asking, for example, “What is the salary range for this position?”, In this way, you take your hand. This response obliges the recruiter to give a database, while preventing your current remuneration to influence negotiation. At this stage, another strategic question can make the difference: “What skills and experiences justify the highest salary in this range?”.
By asking this question, you push the employer to detail the criteria that distinguish the best profiles for this position. This will allow you to highlight your strengths by linking them directly to the expectations of the company.
However, if the employer remains vague or refuses to give a wage range, you can still express your expectations affirmatively. Lee Harding recommends setting a clear figure and avoiding immediate concessions. For example, if you are targeting 70,000 euros, say it is the salary you are looking for. If you are asked what is your acceptable minimum, stay firmly on this figure. This will show that you are sure of your value without being excessive. You will understand, remember this strategy, prepare your arguments and dare to approach the salary issue with insurance.
