What To Consider When Quoting Your Salary Range

“When you are asked what your salary range is, what should you consider? I have been asked that question severally and I find myself at a loss on what to say. Please advise,”says Antony Kirui via email.

When you are job searching, this is perhaps the most important question that you will have to answer. This is because apart from speaking to an employer about what you think you are worth, what you earn will enable you to maintain your needs.

According to Melody Mwendwa, a Professional CV Writer and Career Advisor at Corporate Staffing Services, the salary you are offered will usually depend on the company’s budget and your ability to demonstrate that you deserve that salary.

What You Should Consider When Quoting Salary Range

1. The size of a company
Smaller companies will usually expect you to quote a manageable figure. This is because their revenue is relatively less than those of bigger companies. You have to keep this in mind as you are coming up with a figure to quote, lest you end up losing a dream job because of such a small reason.

However, if the company you are interviewing with is considerably big and well known, the figure you quote should be an indication of your worth in the job market.

2. What people in your profession are earning
It is important for you to know what the people in your profession and at the same level with you are earning. This will help you have facts when you are negotiating for a worthy salary.
It will also ensure that you do not quote too low and end up being taken advantage of by the employer.

3. What experience you have
If you are an entry level job seeker, you will obviously not demand for a salary of 100K, for example. This will make you seem greedy and overambitious and could cost you a job opportunity. You should be willing to start small and work your way up.

In a case where you have the experience, no one will penalize you for quoting a large figure as long as you can back it up with proof of your achievements and marketable skills in the current job market.