If you're in the job market or contemplating it, you must know how to answer the question asking about your salary requirements. It used to be that job applicants could hedge the inquiry, with an "I'm flexible" response. But, many employers are now insisting on a bottom line figure in order to seriously consider an applicant. So, how do you address the question without over or under-pricing yourself?

First, it is important to know a salary range in your geographic area for the position for which you are applying. If you don't know this, you should find out.

Departments of Labor at the state level keep statistics on salaries and labor market trends. Begin by contacting that office in the state in which the job is posted and ask where you would find the salary information you need. You might also go to the comprehensive career resources website, The Riley Guide, for several links to salary statistics.

Once you are aware of a salary range for the position, then you need to determine where you fall within it. Your placement is based on your experience, skills and training that relate to the position. Some people erroneously think that they can base their salary requirements on their past compensation or even on the amount of money they need to pay their bills!

Until you know enough about the position to assess how you would add value, try to address the question of salary requirements with a realistic range that reflects both the marketplace and your background.

Once the interviews are complete and an offer is made, then the table is turned and you can determine whether or not the offer meets your expectations and requirements.

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Barbara is now accepting applications for her Annual Women's Retreat in Provence scheduled for September 23-29. For more info go to: www.yourprovenceretreat.com

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