This appears to be such an innocent and caring question on the surface. Don't be fooled: A literal answer is not in your best interest, as it takes the focus away from how much you are worth and concentrates instead on whether you could do better with your finances. Unfortunately, some employers will use any information you provide to your disadvantage.
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Online Salary Negotiation Help
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Job seekers who press for more money based on their personal needs or wants rather than their value to an employer often create a bad impression. The employer might think "Why should I believe that you are responsible and stable if you have financial problems of your own making?" or "My dream of traveling Europe is just as important as your desire to buy a fishing boat." The most sensitive employers may try to help you find ways to reduce your living expenses by suggesting cheaper restaurants, lower-rent apartments, loan-consolidation services, and so on. Remember, you are dealing with a virtual stranger, and asking this person to sympathize with your personal value judgments is completely inappropriate. Instead, base a vague answer on your ability to do the job. Haldane's example: "I can be quite flexible if I have to be. Money isn't my highest priority. But I feel I have quite a lot to offer to an organization like yours. I'd like my salary to be based on my value to you. I'm sure you have a fair income structure for this kind of job-how much do you have in mind?"
What to Say When an Offer Is Made
Serious negotiation often begins only after you've been invited to several interviews. When some employers are ready to make an offer, they come right out and say, "We'd like to offer you the position provided we can come to a salary agreement." Again, let the employer open up the bidding. The employer is likely to make a very low offer or a reasonable one. The following sections explain what you should say in each situation.
The Offer Is Not What You Want
Remember my salary negotiating rule #4? It was "Never say no to a job offer either before it is made or within 24 hours afterward." At the point in time when the employer is offering you the job, you need to keep this rule in mind. Never, never turn down a job offer in an interview! Let's say that you get a job offer at half the salary you expected. Avoid the temptation to turn it down there and then. Instead, say:
"Thank you for your offer. I am flattered that you think I can do the job. Because this decision is so important to me, I would like to consider your offer and get back with you within two days."
Leave and see if you change your mind. If not, call back and say, in effect: "I've given your offer considerable thought and feel that I just can't take it at the salary you've offered. Is there any way that I could be paid more, in the range of ___________________?" Even as you say no, leave the door open to keep negotiating. If the employer wants you, he or she may be willing to meet your terms. It happens more than you might imagine. If the employer cannot meet your salary needs, say thank you again, and let him or her know you are interested in future openings within your salary range. Then stay in touch. You never know.
Tip: Do not reject a job offer to try to get a higher wage. Understand that once you reject an offer, the deal is off. You must be willing to lose that job forever.