JAMES BUGDEN
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    What to Say When They Ask Your Salary

    5 copy-paste scripts for every scenario. Save this page to your phone.

    1

    First time they ask

    THEY SAY:

    "Can you share your salary expectations?"

    YOU SAY:

    "Right now, I want to learn more about the role and how I contribute. Pay matters, but I'd love to understand the responsibilities, team, and expectations before we talk numbers."

    2

    They push harder

    THEY SAY:

    "We just want to make sure we're in the same range so we don't waste your time."

    YOU SAY:

    "I'd be happy to talk about pay once we've confirmed I'm the right fit. What is the salary range for this role?"

    3

    They won't budge

    THEY SAY:

    "We really need a number to move forward."

    YOU SAY:

    "I'm flexible and open to competitive offers. Pay varies based on experience and impact. What range are you targeting for this position?"

    4

    You must give a number

    YOU SAY:

    "Based on my research and industry benchmarks, similar roles at this level typically offer a monthly base of NT$[X] to [Y]. I'm open to discussing the full package, including bonuses and benefits."

    πŸ’‘ PRO TIP: Take the monthly salary you'd be happy with and add 10 to 20% on top. This gives them room to "negotiate you down" to the number you wanted all along.

    5

    Written application requires a number

    WHAT TO WRITE:

    Write "negotiable" or "per company policy" whenever possible. If the field only accepts numbers, enter a range based on your market research. Never enter your current salary.

    Pro Tips

    πŸ’‘ Pattern: Every script ends with a question back to them. This shifts the conversation. They share information first, not you.

    πŸ’‘ Data reframe (for women especially): Instead of "I want," try "My research shows this role typically pays..." Citing external data (Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, Payscale) puts the focus on the market, not on you.

    πŸ’‘ Remember: You never have to answer this question directly. Deflecting is not rude. It is professional.