Free Tool

Salary Deflection Script Builder

Get a personalized script for the exact salary question they ask. plus a follow-up if they push back. so you stop the conversation, not start one you are not ready for.

How It Works

The salary question comes in several forms and each one needs a different response. This tool builds the right script based on exactly what they asked, where you are in the process, and what you need the number to be.

1

Select the exact question

Pick the version of the salary question that came up. or will come up. in your call.

2

Enter your numbers

Set your floor and ceiling so the script anchors at the right level without capping you.

3

Get your script

Receive the primary deflection, a follow-up if pressed, and a note on when to stop deflecting.

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Instructions: Select the question variant you expect or that was asked. Enter your numbers. the floor is the minimum you would accept, the ceiling is your actual target. The script will anchor at your floor and leave room upward. Do not enter numbers you would not actually accept.

1
The Salary Question They Asked
What The exact form of the question. each one has a different deflection strategy.
Why "What are you currently making?" requires a legally-informed deflection. "What are you looking for?" gives you more room. "Are you open to $X?" is an anchor you need to respond to carefully. One script does not fit all four.
How to use Pick the closest match. If the question has not been asked yet, pick the one you expect.
2
Your Target Range
What The floor is the minimum you would accept. The ceiling is your ideal. Both should be real numbers you have thought through.
Why The script anchors at your floor, not your ceiling. This protects you from locking yourself into a minimum while leaving negotiation room above. Your current comp is optional. it only affects the deflection strategy if you provide it.
How to use Enter annual figures in whole dollars. Skip current comp if you prefer not to reference it in the script.
Enter annual salary, no commas (e.g., 72000)
3
Stage of the Process
What Where you are in the hiring process when this question is coming up.
Why Deflection works differently at different stages. On a first recruiter call, you have full room to ask for their range first. At the pre-offer stage, continued deflection may stall the process. The script adjusts the aggressiveness of the deflection accordingly.
How to use Select your current stage. If you are not sure, pick "first recruiter call."
4
How Much You Want This Role
What Your current desire level for this specific opportunity on a 1-10 scale.
Why If this role is your top choice and you are willing to flex slightly, your deflection tone should leave that door open. If you have multiple strong options, your script can hold firmer. This affects how the follow-up line is worded.
How to use Rate honestly. 10 = this is the one. 1 = exploring only. Most candidates are in the 5-8 range.
Drag to rate 6
Just exploringThis is the one
Your Salary Deflection Script
Personalized for Your Exact Situation
Primary Deflection (say this first)
If They Press for a Number

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