The salary question

Why it is asked early

Employers ask about salary in screens and first interviews to avoid wasting both sides' time: if your expectation is far above the budget, the process stops. It is not an offer and not the negotiation; that comes later. Your goal at this stage is to stay in the process with a number that is realistic and that you can later defend.

Research the range

• The posting. Some state a scale or grade; public roles always have one. If it is there, your expectation is within it.
• The board. Search similar roles in the same county and level and note the ranges that