Would my chances of getting a job be affected by asking for too much?

Question

I applied to abc company a few weeks ago for position X and salary was mentioned at $12-$14/hr depending on Experience etc. I sent an email with my cover letter and resume refs etc. & handed one in personally to HR. After several weeks with no reply, a new, similar job was posted at $10-$12/hr. to which I also sent resume. I received a call from HR! What would be a resonable amount I should ask for? I have been unwaged since I graduated from college ONE year ago. Minimun req. for job is High school diploma and bi-lingual, I speak 4 (2 being native). Please, any suggestions that are helpful? Thanks.

Answer 1

Ask them

Answer 2

because you speak four languages you may want to concentrate on finding a translating job because it will pay more and it is easier to live on

Answer 3

If you are a college graduate, you should be paid for it. Since it only requires a HS diploma, you should ask for the maximum. When looking for a job, it is frustrating to have to turn down people who want to give you money, but you should never compromise yourself and your own standards. Go into every job saying "I WILL NOT WORK FOR LESS THAN x AMOUNT" and dont. Dont be afraid to walk, if your resume is good enough, they may be willing to call you back later and offer you what you asked for.  

Answer 4

Just like with any situation in the financial marketplace, employers sometimes want the most "bang" for there buck so they use the old 'send us your salary requirement' line as a way to weed out people who are'nt submitting low-ball offers. To combat this, its often best to inquire about there minimum or starting wage before submitting your requirement to let them know that you are willing to "compete" for the job.