When determining what to put for your desired salary on a job application, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you're positioning yourself fairly and competitively in the job market. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Research the Industry and Role:
Begin by researching the average salary for the position you're applying for within your industry. Websites like Glassdoor, Payscale, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics can provide valuable insights into salary ranges. Consider the cost of living in the area where the job is located, as this can significantly impact salary expectations.

2. Assess Your Experience and Skills:
Evaluate your unique qualifications, including your experience, education, and any specialized skills that may be in high demand within the industry. If you have more experience or skills that are particularly relevant to the job, you may be able to justify a higher salary.

3. Understand the Company:
Research the company's financial health and its typical compensation practices. Some companies may offer lower starting salaries but have a strong performance-based bonus structure, while others may provide a higher base salary with fewer bonuses.

**4. Consider the Full Compensation Package:**
Remember that salary is just one part of the total compensation package. Benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks, can add significant value to a job offer. Be prepared to consider these when evaluating the overall compensation.

5. Know Your Worth:
Be confident in the value you bring to the table. If you've done your research and understand the market rate for your role, don't undervalue yourself. It's better to aim slightly above the midpoint of the salary range if you believe your qualifications warrant it.

6. Be Ready to Negotiate:
Keep in mind that the salary listed on the job application is often negotiable. Be prepared to discuss your desired salary during the interview process, and be ready to justify your request based on your research and qualifications.

7. Be Flexible:
While it's important to know what you're worth, also be open to the idea that the final salary may not be exactly what you initially asked for. Companies may have budget constraints or other factors that could affect the final offer.

8. Practice Professionalism:
Regardless of the salary you desire, maintain a professional demeanor throughout the application and negotiation process. Avoid coming across as greedy or entitled, and instead focus on the value you will bring to the company.

9. Be Specific but Open-Ended:
When stating your desired salary, be specific about the range you're comfortable with, but also leave room for negotiation. For example, if you're aiming for a salary of $55,000, you might indicate a range of $52,000 to $60,000.

10. Follow Up:
After you've submitted your application, follow up with a thank-you note or email to the hiring manager, reiterating your interest in the position and your salary expectations.

Remember, the goal is to find a salary that is fair for both you and the employer. By doing your research, understanding your value, and being open to negotiation, you can increase your chances of securing a salary that meets your needs and expectations.

read more >>

This means if you're applying for a job with a pay range of $50,000 to $60,000, chances are you'll be hired at $55,000 or possibly less. In this case, indicate that you'd like to negotiate a starting salary slightly above midpoint.Feb 20, 2018read more >>