Whoever names a number first has less room afterwards. That is why the question comes early, and why deflecting it politely is a reasonable first move.
Deflecting once
- "I'd like to understand the role a bit better first — is there a band budgeted for this position?"
- "I'm open on that. What range did you have in mind?"
- "I'd rather focus on fit first, but I'm sure we can align on numbers."
Deflect once. Twice starts to look evasive.
Giving a range
When you do answer, give a range and make the bottom of it a figure you would genuinely accept.
"Based on what I've seen for similar roles in this market, I'm looking at somewhere between twelve and fifteen lakhs, depending on the overall package."
Justifying the number
- "That's in line with what I've seen for this level in this city."
- "That reflects the six years I've spent in this specific area."
- "I'd be flexible if there's scope on the other components."
When they ask your current salary
In some countries this question is now illegal for employers to ask. Where it is legal, you can redirect:
- "My current package is quite different in structure, so I've been focusing on the market rate for this role."
- "I'd rather talk about what this position is worth."
If the offer is low
- "Thanks for the offer — I'm genuinely interested. Is there any flexibility on the base?"
- "That's below what I was expecting. Could we look at the total package?"
- "Could I have a couple of days to consider it?"
Asking for time is always acceptable. An employer who refuses to give you two days is telling you something useful.
