Interviews are full of high-stakes moments — but few catch candidates off guard quite like an unexpected question about compensation. Even if you’ve already discussed salary expectations with your recruiter, being asked directly by a hiring manager or principal can feel uncomfortable, especially if it comes early in the conversation.
You might feel pressure to say something immediately, but here’s the good news:
You don’t have to answer on the spot. And you’re not alone.
In fact, pausing or deferring the question can be the smartest move.
What to Say If You’re Not Ready to Discuss Compensation
If you’re asked about salary in an interview and don’t feel comfortable answering, here’s a simple, professional response you can use:
“I appreciate the question. I’d prefer to have all compensation conversations go through my recruiter, as we’ve already discussed the details together.”
This response checks all the boxes:
- It’s respectful and direct.
- It reinforces your professionalism.
- It redirects the conversation to your recruiter, who is aligned with your goals.
- It prevents you from saying something off the cuff that might box you into a number before you’ve had a chance to gather all the information.
Most interviewers will respect this boundary. If anything, it shows that you’re taking the process seriously and handling it with maturity.
Why It’s Okay (and Smart) to Defer the Question
Compensation is one part of the bigger picture. When you’re early in the interview process, you’re still learning about the role, the responsibilities, the team dynamics, and the expectations. Giving a number too early can unintentionally limit your options — or cause confusion later on.
That’s why we always recommend candidates let us, as your recruiters, take the lead on those conversations. We’re here to help you:
- Understand market trends: Is your target salary aligned with current conditions? Are there recent shifts in the industry or geography that matter?
- Position your experience strategically: We know how to frame your background in a way that resonates with the client.
- Negotiate on your behalf: Our goal is to find a win-win — securing an offer that reflects your value, while matching the client’s budget and expectations.
Negotiating for yourself can be difficult, even for seasoned professionals. That’s why having an advocate in your corner is so valuable.
Your Focus Should Be Connection, Not Compensation
In the early stages of an interview, your job is to:
- Build rapport.
- Communicate your strengths and experience.
- Ask thoughtful questions about the company, culture, and role.
This is your opportunity to show that you’re the right fit, not just in terms of skills, but in terms of mindset, collaboration, and cultural alignment. Let us handle the behind-the-scenes strategy. When compensation becomes a serious discussion later in the process, we’ll be right there with you — prepared, informed, and ready to advocate.
Final Thoughts
Being caught off guard by a salary question isn’t a failure — it’s a chance to show your professionalism and poise. And remember: you’re never alone in this process. We’re here to guide, support, and negotiate for you every step of the way.
