How to Respond to the Statement 'Our Company's Salary Structure is Relatively Fixed, with Limited Room for Adjustment'

Problem Description
During salary negotiations, the interviewer or HR may cite a 'fixed company salary structure' as a reason for difficulty in meeting your salary expectations. This statement typically conveys two messages: first, the company indeed has a strict compensation system; second, the other party is testing whether you are willing to compromise. You need to maintain a cooperative attitude while striving for better terms.

Problem-Solving Process

1. Understand the Other Party's Position and Show Empathy

   • Example response:
     "I understand the company has standardized compensation policies to ensure internal fairness, and I fully appreciate that."
   • Purpose:
     Demonstrate professionalism, avoid making the other party feel you are challenging company rules, and set a friendly tone for subsequent negotiations.

2. Reiterate Your Value and Fit for the Role

   • Key point:
     Shift the conversation from 'salary structure' to 'why you deserve an exception.'
   • Example response:
     "Based on our interview discussions, this role requires [specific skills, e.g., cross-departmental coordination/technical expertise], and in my previous position, I [provide an example of achievement], which may exceed the basic requirements of the job description. Therefore, I hope the salary can better reflect my actual contributions."
   • Purpose:
     Use concrete examples to demonstrate your irreplaceability and justify breaking the 'fixed structure.'

3. Explore Flexible Adjustment Options

   • Strategy:
     If base salary adjustments are difficult, shift focus to other compensation components or non-cash benefits.
   • Possible areas to inquire about:
     • "If there's limited room to adjust the base salary, is there flexibility in performance bonuses, stock options, or project allowances?"
     • "Can the probation period be shortened or an early salary review be arranged (e.g., after 3 months)?"
     • "Does the company offer additional training budgets, remote work benefits, or extra leave?"
   • Purpose:
     Broaden the negotiation scope and find alternative solutions acceptable to both parties.

4. Reaffirm Your Interest in Joining, Encouraging Their Effort

   • Example response:
     "This role aligns closely with my career goals, and I am very eager to join. If the company can offer support in [a specific benefit] or [a flexible arrangement], I would be delighted to accept the offer."
   • Purpose:
     Show that you are not solely focused on the numbers but seek a win-win outcome, encouraging the other party to internally coordinate resources.

Important Considerations

• Avoid directly challenging the company's policies (e.g., "Other companies offer more flexibility"), and instead focus on justifying your own value.
• If the other party insists no adjustments are possible, weigh whether the overall package (e.g., career growth opportunities, company culture) is worth compromising for.