Avoiding a Killer Question

By Marty Nemko

Many job interviewees' stomachs fall when asked, "How much are you looking to make?" There's no good answer. Too high a number and you could disqualify yourself. Too low a number and you've cost yourself some money. A solution: preempt the question. About 1/3 of the way into the interview, right after you've scored a winning point, ask, "By the way, what salary range have you budgeted for the position?" They'll probably answer, and if they're evasive, that's a sign that they'll continue playing games with you after you're hired. Maybe you don't want to work for them.