“Based on my research, I'm looking for something in the range of sixty to seventy thousand.”
B1 · Intermediate9 minInterview
What they are really asking
The company has a budget for this role, and they need to see whether you fit inside it. That's the practical part. The other part is a test of how you talk about money: calmly and with reasons, or nervously, or with a number that seems pulled from the air.
There's no answer that always gets you more money, and no single right number. What helps is preparation. Before the interview, look up what similar jobs pay in that city, using job ads, salary surveys and people you know in the field. Then decide on a range. The bottom of your range should be a number you'd still be happy to accept, because that's often where an offer lands.
A shape that works
Their range first, then yours, then the whole package. You can politely ask what range they've budgeted for the role. If they share it, respond to it. If they'd rather hear from you, give a researched range, not a single number, and say briefly what it's based on. Finish by saying you're open to talking about the full package, like benefits, vacation and flexibility. Keep your voice steady; this is a normal business conversation.
Model answers
Listen to how each answer is built, then make it yours.
Answer 1: a marketing manager in Chicago who asks firstAnswer 2: a software developer in Toronto with a researched rangeAnswer 3: a new graduate in Singapore who is flexible
Check yourself
Practice · 3 min
Look up what three similar jobs pay in the city where you'd like to work, and choose a range with a bottom number you'd accept. Record a thirty-second answer: ask their range, then give yours with one reason, then mention the full package. Listen back and check that you stopped talking after your range instead of lowering it.
Your recording stays on this device. Nothing is uploaded.
Say it today
Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.