Know the market salary range for the role before the interview, then give a researched range that starts at a figure you would genuinely accept. Tie it to the job's responsibilities rather than your personal needs, and make clear whether you mean pay before or after deductions.
Step by step
- 1
Research before the interview
Similar job ads that state a salary, colleagues in the field and salary websites, so you know a realistic range for your level and city.
- 2
Set your minimum
The figure you will not go below after counting your expenses and your current salary. Keep it to yourself.
- 3
Give a range, not one number
A range that starts at a figure you are comfortable with, plus a sentence linking it to your experience and the responsibilities required.
- 4
Clarify gross and net
In Egypt, net pay is lower than gross by the employee's social insurance share, salary tax and the Martyrs Fund contribution. In the Gulf, ask about housing and transport allowances.
- 5
Delay the number if you can
If the question comes in the first call, say you would like to understand the responsibilities and benefits first, then answer if the interviewer insists.
A figure based only on your personal needs or your current salary puts you in a weak negotiating position. A convincing figure rests on what the role is worth in the market.
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