HR: “We can’t offer the salary you’re asking for.”
Most candidates continue to answer:
❌ “Oh okay…”
❌ “Any amount also can…”
❌ “Other companies can give…”
Let’s not do that. Instead of reacting emotionally or giving in, try a smarter approach.
Ask this one powerful question:
“I understand. Just to clarify, is the limitation because of a fixed budget for this role or is it based on my current experience?”
With this one question, you can find out what the real obstacles are.
After that, it’s easy for you to negotiate more strategically.
If the problem is budget:
“If the basic salary is fixed, can we explore other benefits like remote options, allowances or maybe a signing bonus to help balance the gap?”
If because of experience:
“I see. Would you be open to revisiting the salary after 6 months based on my performance?”
Can you see the difference? From ‘NO’ to a solution-focused conversation.
If this helps, share it so more people can learn!
No interview invitation in the last 6 weeks?
Let’s help you fix that CV and get you noticed. Email your CV to [email protected] with subject ‘Revamp’
