How should I respond when a recruiter asks about my salary expectations?

It is reasonable to want an answer that protects your negotiating position while still sounding cooperative. A professional approach is to show flexibility, ask for context, and avoid naming a number before you understand the role. You might say, “I’m interested in the opportunity and would like to understand the responsibilities and total compensation package. Could you share the budgeted salary range for the position?”

If the recruiter asks you to answer first, provide a researched range rather than one fixed amount: “Based on the role’s scope and my experience, I’m targeting a base salary in the range of $X to $Y, depending on the overall package.” Choose a range you could genuinely accept, with the lower end still reasonably satisfactory. Consider bonuses, equity, retirement contributions, health benefits, paid time off, location, and remote or hybrid arrangements—not only base salary.

If you do not yet have enough information, it is fine to defer politely: “I’d like to learn more about the expectations before giving a precise figure, but I’m confident we can find a fair range if there is a mutual fit.” If an application requires a number, use your researched target when possible rather than an arbitrary figure. Pay varies substantially by role, location, industry, experience, and employer, so check current market information before the conversation.

Avoid apologizing for your expectations or presenting them as an ultimatum. Keep the discussion factual and collaborative. Before the call, prepare your preferred range, your minimum acceptable total package, and two short versions of your response so you can answer calmly and consistently.