What answer do I give a potential employer that asks, "How much are you looking to get paid?"?

Question

I recently had a phone interview for a position that I am highly interested in where the potential employer asked me, "How much are you looking to get paid?" What is the best answer to give without risking the chances of getting the job?

The job listing did however provide a salary range that seemed a little low considering the responsibilities of the position.

Answer 1

Just be like:

I would like to start out low and work my way up

Answer 2

Since the job listing referred to a salary range, I would do one of two things. First go to salary.com or payscale.com and find out the average salary for the job you are applying for based on your level of experience and education. If the average falls within the range posted by your potential employer than great and you can tell your interviewer that the range mentioned on the job listing is what you are looking for or you can mention your own salary range which overlaps the employers salary range but with a slightly higher starting point. If offered the job with starting pay towards the lower end of the range, you can negotiate up within the range by highlighting what you are bringing to the job and/or find out when you would be eligible for an increase. Some employers give an increase after an employee successfully completes the introductory period. You can negotiate this into your job offer. I wouldnt ask for more than they have listed as this may automatically disqualify you, afterall you have applied for a job knowing the maximum they are willing to pay. Sometimes employers surprise you and end up paying more than they advertised due to other reasons. Good luck with your job search and interviews.