Canadian job interview guide for salary expectations

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You’ve breezed through the interview, covered your skills and experience, and even told a story of a time you’ve failed. Then comes the question that can catch people off guard:

What are your salary expectations?

Talking about money can feel uncomfortable, but it’s a crucial part of the interview process. Answering confidently can set the tone for fair and productive negotiations. Here are some tips based on a post by Indeed.

A few things to avoid
❌ Disclosing your past salary. Sharing this can unintentionally anchor you to a lower range than the role deserves.
❌ Showing up unprepared. Without research, you risk undervaluing yourself or overshooting the role’s budget.

Instead, set yourself up for success
✅ Research salary ranges. Use resources like job postings, industry reports, or platforms like Glassdoor to find the typical range for similar roles.
✅ Be flexible. Compensation is more than just the number on your paycheck. Consider benefits, vacation time, and professional development opportunities as part of the package.

How to deflect the question
If you’re asked about salary expectations early on in the interview process, deflection is a strategic option. You might say:

“I’m open to discussing compensation once I understand the full scope of the role and its responsibilities. Could you share the budgeted range for this position?”

What to say if they insist on a number
If the interviewer presses for a number, rely on your research and present a thoughtful range:

“Based on my research and the industry standard for similar roles in this region, I believe a range of [X to Y] aligns with my skills and experience. Of course, I’m open to discussion and interested in learning more about your overall compensation package.”

Q: How much research should I do before a job interview?

Beginner: You focus on the basics—review the job description, LinkedIn, and the company website to understand the role, product, and company history.

Intermediate: Dig deeper into industry trends, the leadership team, and recent company performance using annual reports and earnings releases.

Advanced: Go even further by exploring customer feedback, employee testimonials on Glassdoor, and the company’s future plans, including funding and innovation.

• Truck Driver-Supervisor, Thornhill, BC

• Electrician, Calgary, AB

• Medical Administrative Assistant, Calgary, AB

• Long Haul Truck Driver, Winnipeg, MB

• Truck Dispatcher, Calgary, AB

• Construction General Manager, Brampton, ON

• Family Doctor, ​​Mississauga, ON

• IT Business Analyst, Montréal, QC

• Construction Labourer, Timmins, ON

• Digital Marketing Coordinator, Caledon, ON

• Veterinary Assistant, London, ON

*all job postings available at time of email publication

Learning to say no respectfully is one of the most significant skills you can develop in your career. It truly is.

The consequences of not saying “No” are:

But how do you say no without damaging relationships or your reputation? Follow these three steps to balance assertiveness with professionalism.

STEP 1: Know Your Priorities
Before you can start saying no with confidence, it’s important to know your priorities. Start by asking yourself the right questions.

✅ What are my current deadlines and commitments?
✅ Does this request align with my long-term goals?

STEP 2: Collect More Information
Outright refusal could harm your relationships or reputation. Instead, gather details to fully understand the request.

✅ “When does this need to be completed?”
✅ “Would it be possible to prioritize this for next quarter or divide the workload?”

STEP 3: Communicate Thoughtfully
Once you’ve clarified your priorities and the scope of the request, explain why you can’t commit while exploring alternatives.

✅ “I’m focused on [priority] right now, but I’d be happy to revisit this later or recommend someone who can help.”
✅ “This sounds important, but I’m currently tied up with [priority]. If it can wait until next week, I’d love to tackle it then with my full focus.”