Step 11 of 16 · Interview Answers That Land
Delay once, then a researched range
Delay once, then a researched range — step 11 of 16 in Interview Answers That Land. If they ask early: 'I want to make sure the work is a match. Happy to talk numbers once I understand the shift and the scope.
Free career skills tip: Delay once, then a researched range (step 11 of 16 from "Interview Answers That Land").
If they ask early: 'I want to make sure the work is a match. Happy to talk numbers once I understand the shift and the scope. Do you have a range approved for this ops coordinator role?' If they push, you do not play coy. You say the number. Research: three live listings or a salary tool for your city. Example: market $52–62k, you currently $49k, you ask $58k, floor $54k before you walk.
Script, out loud: 'I'm targeting $56–62k, with $58k as the number that matches the ticket volume and the count ownership in the posting. I'm open on benefits and overtime rules if the base is in that band.' Do not say 'whatever you think is fair'. Do not say your current salary first. Do not add 'but I can be flexible' in the same breath as the ask — that is how $58k becomes $51k in the room.
Pro tip: Write the floor on a sticky note. If they come in at $50k and you need $54k, you say so. Silence after their number is allowed for two seconds. Filling it with a joke is not.
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