What are your salary expectations?

A full STAR example answer for this behavioral question, plus the common mistakes that weaken most answers and the follow-ups interviewers use to probe deeper.

A strong STAR example answer

Happy to talk about it — and I want to be transparent, since I expect the same from you. Based on market data for this role and level in this market, plus recent conversations with peers in similar positions, the range I am targeting is $130,000 to $150,000 base.

That range reflects things specific to me: years of direct experience in exactly this function, a track record I am glad to walk through, and the fact that I can own this area without a ramp-up team around me.

That said, I am evaluating the whole package, not just base — bonus structure, equity, and the growth path all matter. If the scope turns out broader than what we have discussed, the number should reflect that. So I would genuinely like to hear the band you have budgeted. If we are in the same neighborhood, I am confident we will land somewhere that works for both of us. My priority is the right role; compensation tends to follow when both sides are straightforward.

How to structure your own answer

• Situation: Signal flexibility and enthusiasm before numbers.
• Task: Give a researched range anchored on market data, not your current pay.
• Action: State the range and briefly justify it with your evidence.
• Result: Hand the conversation back — total package, growth, their band.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don't give a single number — it either lowballs you or prices you out.
• Refusing to answer at all stops being strategic and starts looking evasive.
• Why anchor on your current salary? The market value of the role is what counts.
• Hedge the range or apologize for it, and you have invited a low offer.

Follow-up questions to prepare for

A strong answer invites follow-ups — interviewers probe to check the reasoning holds up. Prepare for questions like:

• What is your current compensation?
• Would you accept the bottom of that range?
• How do you weigh equity versus base salary?

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