How should I approach desired salary questions on job applications?

When filling out job applications, I'm often asked for my desired salary. As a high school student with limited work experience, I'm not sure what a reasonable answer is. Any advice on how to approach this?

Approaching the "desired salary" question can be a tricky aspect of the job application process, especially for someone early in their career or with limited work experience. It's important to strike a balance between undervaluing your skills and overpricing yourself out of competition.

First, you'll want to conduct some research. Look at websites such as Glassdoor or PayScale to get an idea of the average salary for the type of job you're applying for, considering the industry and the geographical location. These sites often provide a salary range that can help you gauge what might be a typical wage for someone with your level of experience.

You should also factor in your skills, qualifications, and work demands when determining a desired salary. As a high school student, your wage might be on the lower end of the scale, especially for entry-level jobs. However, if you possess particular skills or qualifications that make you a strong candidate for the position, this can be a basis for negotiating a higher wage.

Always keep in mind that the number you provide should be somewhat flexible. In many cases, employers might suggest a starting salary that's lower than your desired wage but with opportunities for increases or bonuses based on performance. If the job offers non-monetary benefits, such as flexible hours, or opportunities for learning and growth, these might be worth accepting a lower salary.

Remember, you're not obligated to provide a specific number on an application. If the system allows it, you might want to put something like "negotiable" or "open to discussion" to keep lines of communication with potential employers open.

Finally, when you're in an actual interview, remember that you have the power to negotiate. Don't feel compelled to accept the first number given to you. Be confident and advocate for your worthwhile being respectful of the employer's resources and needs.

In all, approach the desired salary question with research, consideration, and confidence. This way, you can ensure you aren't undervaluing your work, but you're also being realistic and competitive.