posted 11th February 2026
Candidates often face this question in UK interviews to gauge fit and value skills appropriately. Research market rates for your role, sector, and experience using tools like salary guides before responding—this ensures realistic expectations aligned with industry standards.
Provide a narrow salary range rather than a single figure, such as £40,000–£45,000, where the lower end meets your minimum needs. This shows flexibility and invites negotiation while avoiding underselling.
Preparation Tips
• Research thoroughly: Use sites like Indeed Salaries or recruiter guides to benchmark against similar UK roles, considering location and benefits.
• Defer if possible: Respond with, "I'm flexible—could you share the budgeted range?" to gain info first.
• Factor in total package: Mention openness to bonuses, extra leave, or training if base salary varies.
Sample Responses
• "Based on my skills and market research, I seek £45,000–£50,000, open to the full package."
• "With my experience, £30,000–£35,000 fits, especially with strong benefits."
Negotiation Strategies
Express enthusiasm first, then justify with evidence like past achievements. Stay professional, avoid past salary disclosure, and know your bottom line—employers expect discussion after offers. If mismatched, propose alternatives calmly rather than reacting emotionally.
Sample Short Answers for Salary Expectations
Use these concise, adaptable responses in UK interviews to show research, flexibility, and value. Tailor figures to your role, experience, and market rates like those from Totaljobs or Indeed.
• "Based on my experience, I'm targeting £40,000–£45,000, open to the full package."
• "I'm seeking £45,000–£50,000 annually, depending on benefits and bonuses."
• "Could you share the budgeted range? I'm flexible based on the role."
• "With my skills, £30,000–£35,000 fits, especially with strong perks."
• "Market research suggests £35,000–£40,000; I'm open to negotiation."
Delivery Tips
Start with enthusiasm, justify briefly with skills or research, then pivot to total compensation. Practice to sound confident without seeming rigid. If pressed early, defer politely to learn their range first.
Here are some one sentence options candidates can use on a phone screen for salary expectations:
• “Based on my research and experience, I’m looking in the region of £X–£Y, but I’m flexible depending on the overall package.”
• “For my next move I’m targeting roles around £X, though I’m happy to discuss the full compensation package.”
• “Before giving a figure, could you share the budgeted range for this position so I can confirm we’re aligned?”
• “I’m open and flexible; my priority is the right role and progression, as long as the salary is broadly in line with market rates for this level.”
• “I’m currently considering opportunities in the £X–£Y range, depending on responsibilities and benefits.”
Sample Responses
• "Based on my skills and market research, I seek £45,000–£50,000, open to the full package."
• "With my experience, £30,000–£35,000 fits, especially with strong benefits."
Negotiation Strategies
Express enthusiasm first, then justify with evidence like past achievements. Stay professional, avoid past salary disclosure, and know your bottom line—employers expect discussion after offers. If mismatched, propose alternatives calmly rather than reacting emotionally.
Sample Short Answers for Salary Expectations
Use these concise, adaptable responses in UK interviews to show research, flexibility, and value. Tailor figures to your role, experience, and market rates like those from Indeed or Michael Page guides.
• "Based on my experience, I'm targeting £40,000–£45,000, open to the full package."
• "I'm seeking £45,000–£50,000 annually, depending on benefits and bonuses."
• "Could you share the budgeted range? I'm flexible based on the role."
• "With my skills, £30,000–£35,000 fits, especially with strong perks."
• "Market research suggests £35,000–£40,000; I'm open to negotiation."
Delivery Tips
Start with enthusiasm, justify briefly with skills or research, then pivot to total compensation. Practice to sound confident without seeming rigid. If pressed early, defer politely to learn their range first.
Here are some one sentence options candidates can use on a phone screen for salary expectations:
• “Based on my research and experience, I’m looking in the region of £X–£Y, but I’m flexible depending on the overall package.”
• “For my next move I’m targeting roles around £X, though I’m happy to discuss the full compensation package.”
• “Before giving a figure, could you share the budgeted range for this position so I can confirm we’re aligned?”
• “I’m open and flexible; my priority is the right role and progression, as long as the salary is broadly in line with market rates for this level.”
• “I’m currently considering opportunities in the £X–£Y range, depending on responsibilities and benefits.”
