Ask the Expert Dr. Kathleen Wells is a professional career coach and Director of Coaches That Care. She has coached thousands of clients through the stages of successful career development. Discussing salary in an interview Q: I recently interviewed for a position with a panel of interviewers. The interview went very well and they asked me what I would expect in terms of salary? Since I needed to include a salary requirement with my cover letter and resume, I told them that I would need at least that amount that I already stated. My question is: I gave a salary requirement for the basic job desription, it turns out that there will be an added responsibility of being on call 24/7. I won't need to leave my home, but I will need to answer the phone and solve the problem. Also, this is a newly created position and they want me to implement some changes in order for a certain department to function successfully. I'm pretty sure that they are going to offer me the position, however, what do I say if they offer me what I initially asked for? I think with the added responsibility I should receive at least $5,000 more annually. It is a Dispatch Supervisory position. I initially requested $25,000 annually but I think I should at least be paid $30,000 for all of the responsibility that I would have. What is your opinion? A: Your question is a good one and illustrates an excellent point. NEVER respond to a needed salary or salary history question in your letter. You've told them what you will settle for before knowing the details of the job. If you meet this again, simply respond to the request for this information so they know you didn't miss it. You can say something like "I will be happy to discuss salary requirements in a personal interview" and move on. If it is salary history they want, that's none of their business. What you made before is not in any way relevant to what they need to pay you. So avoid answering that one. Now, since you already gave them that information you need to do some convincing. When they make their offer (and it can come in higher than what you specified), if it is lower than you want for that amount of responsibility do two things before you tell them how much you want. Remind them why they want you. They are at the negotiation stage because they decided you are the best of the candidates. It can go something like this: "I would enjoy being part of the dispatch team, and I can bring experience, excellent supervisory skills and background to the position." Then tell them why you think the job is worth more. "This job carries a lot of responsibility and the need to be on call 24/7. Because of that, I would expect to earn at least $30,000." If they remind you that you said $25,000, then reiterate what you just told me in your question. At the time that you listed the lower amount you were not aware of the added responsibilities. Good luck! Also see: Negotiating for a raise