How do I know what salary to ask for?

Concerns & risks

You were trying to accept a job offer, but you froze when they asked what salary you want.

Underpricing yourself costs years of pay.

Causes & evidence

Use BLS and CareerOneStop data for typical pay in your field and area. See salary research.

What to do

1. Look up the job in the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
2. Check local wages on CareerOneStop.
3. Factor in benefits.
4. Ask for a range based on data.

Common mistakes: Common mistakes: naming a number with no research or accepting the first offer instantly. Look at BLS data for your occupation and area, plus salary listings for similar jobs. Consider your experience, skills, and the cost of living. Think about the whole package: health insurance, retirement match, paid leave, and remote work. It's usually fine to ask politely for a day to think it over. If you negotiate, keep the tone positive and specific. Write your target number down before the call so nerves don't push it lower.

Speed Man tip: Practice your ask out loud.

Wrap-up: Research data. Consider location. Ask with a range.