The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Perfect Resume, 5th Edition

Salary Small Talk

You may run into a job posting that asks for your salary expectations. Most job seekers don’t feel comfortable talking about these details before the interview. If you feel compelled to do so in your cover letter (maybe you worry that you’ll be disqualified if you don’t comply with the ad’s request), do so gingerly.

 

I suggest you first find out what the position typically pays. You can do this by looking at salary surveys online, asking a job counselor or employment agency, or by reading posts for similar jobs online. Then do one of the following:

◆ Mention your salary expectations in your cover e-mail, using language that gives you room for negotiations, such as, “I am looking for a position in the $X to $Y salary range.” ...