YAJ(ob)T: When they ask what your salary requirements are

[fbrdphreak]

So when an employer asks about your salary requirements, do you aim on the high end or suggest a more reasonable value? Obviously aiming high is good, but would an employer be put off somehow by you asking for a high salary?

I don't know the concrete details of the job I'm going for, as it may change some, but it looks like $45-50K is the median and I'm thinking of saying $55-60K.

Thoughts?

 

[Maximus96]

i aimed high but they always come back low. both times i had to counter in the middle and was successful.

 

[WolverineGator]

Six figures, nothing less.

 

[CanOWorms]

I always say that I'm negotiable and don't give a solid answer. I'm glad I did recently because my offer was $10k higher than what I would have said.

 

[fbrdphreak]

Originally posted by: CanOWorms
I always say that I'm negotiable and don't give a solid answer. I'm glad I did recently because my offer was $10k higher than what I would have said.

Good thought, but I'm also worried they may offer really low if I do that. Unfortunately I don't have a solid grasp on what the pay is for this kind of position with this company.

 

[RGUN]

If they ask about it just let them know that you're fine with it as long as they provide you with the Cheese-whiz

 

[fbrdphreak]

Originally posted by: RGUN
If they ask about it just let them know that you're fine with it as long as they provide you with the Cheese-whiz

And gummy bears. Cheese-wiz and gummy bears. Mmmmmmm

 

[angrymaxx]

Aim higher but don't overprice yourself much beyond what you are worth. Expect some negotiation. If they are offering close to the $$$ you want but aren't willing to budge anymore, you can also negotiate extra vacation days or other compensation. Remember, everything is negotiable.

edit:
Also if you are planning on taking a vacation, tell them BEFORE you sign your offer letter.

 

[her209]

Tell them "Show me the money. SHOW ME THE MONEY!!!"

 

[spacelord]

Definately go for the high end of the pay scale, but within reason.
Chances are that if you start low on the pay scale, you'll always be low on the pay scale within that company for your position.

I know that where I work other engineers in the same classification make a certain range of money.. some more some less.. thats why they don't allow you to discuss salary with other employees.

 

[DannyLove]

AIM HIGH.

Last position I simply accepted the offer and didn't even bother with any negociations. If I knew what I do know, I certainly would have requested a LOT more and would have probably been able to get it.. oh wells, you learn.

AIM HIGH, but not THAT high.