“What are your salary expectations?” is one of the questions candidates dread most. It’s awkward for almost everyone, and if you’re neurodivergent it can be harder still: the rules of salary talk are rarely spelled out, and answering on the spot leaves little room to think. The good news is that this is one of the easiest questions to prepare for in advance. This guide explains why employers ask it and how to build an answer you’re comfortable with.
Why employers ask about salary
Mostly, it’s a budget check. The employer wants to know whether what you’re hoping for fits the range they have for the role. They may also be looking at whether you’ve researched the market and understand what the job is worth.
It isn’t a trick, and there’s rarely a single right number. A sensible, researched range shows you’ve thought about it, which is all most interviewers need.
How to prepare your answer
Check what the employer has already told you
Many UK job adverts include a salary or a salary band. If this one does, your answer can sit within or near that range. If it doesn’t, it’s reasonable to ask the recruiter or HR contact before the interview what the range is. Asking in writing can take the pressure off.
Research the going rate
Look at similar roles in your area and sector on job boards, including the Enna jobs board. The National Careers Service also publishes job profiles that include typical salaries. Note the low, middle and high figures you see.
Work out your own numbers
Think about what you need to live on, including travel costs and anything specific to your situation. Then think about what you bring: qualifications, experience, skills and anything that makes you a strong fit. Together these give you a floor you won’t go below and a figure you’d be pleased with.
Set a range
Give a range rather than one number. Make the bottom of it a figure you’d genuinely accept, because that’s where the conversation may well start.
Practise saying it out loud
Write your answer down and rehearse it until it feels natural. If processing time helps you, there is nothing wrong with pausing before you answer or saying “Let me give you a considered answer to that.” You can also ask for adjustments to the interview itself; Acas explains that employers must make reasonable adjustments for job applicants.
An example answer
“From my research into similar roles in this area, and given the responsibilities in this one, I’d be looking for something in the region of £X to £Y. I’m open to discussing the overall package, including flexibility and development opportunities, as those matter to me too.”
That answer is short, shows you’ve done your homework and leaves room for a conversation. It also brings in the wider package. Flexible hours, remote working or a training budget can be worth as much to you as a slightly higher salary, so it’s worth knowing in advance which of these matter most.
More interview preparation
This post is part of our series on common interview questions. You might also find these useful:
- How to answer “How do you prioritise your work?”
- Using the STAR method to structure your answers
- Ways to reduce interview anxiety
You can also download our interview question practice resource (PDF).
How Enna can help
Still job hunting? The Enna jobs board lists roles with employers committed to neuroinclusion, and you can sign up for job alerts so new vacancies come straight to you. If your CV needs a refresh before you apply, our CV help page walks you through it.
