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What are your salary expectations for this role?

Updated May 18, 2026

Short answer

Anchor on research + a range, not a single number. Give a market-based range for the role, level, and location, and frame it around the value you bring. If it is early in the process, it is fine to defer: "I'd like to understand the scope and level first, but based on my research the range for this role is X–Y."

Deep explanation

Recruiters ask this to check expectations align with budget and to gauge your market awareness.

  • Do your homework: Use levels.fyi, Glassdoor, and offers from peers to find the realistic band for the level and city.
  • Give a range, lead with the bottom you'd accept: e.g., "$X to $Y, depending on the overall package and level."
  • Tie it to value: briefly connect the number to your experience and the impact you'll have.
  • Defer politely when too early: you don't have to commit before you know the level — but never say "I have no idea."
  • Consider total comp: base + bonus + e…

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