How do I answer salary expectations as a fresh graduate in Nigeria?

As a fresh graduate, research the entry-level pay for that industry. Give a modest range based on your skills and mention that you are open to negotiation based on other benefits like training and health insurance.

Should I tell a recruiter my current salary?

You are not legally obligated to. Instead of focusing on what you earn now, focus on the value you are bringing to the new role and what the market rate is for that position.

What is 'Gross Salary' vs 'Net Salary' in Nigeria?

Gross Salary is the total amount before taxes and pensions are removed. Net Salary (Take-home) is what actually enters your bank account after all deductions like PAYE and NAPPS.

CAREER PRO: What is Your Salary Expectation?: How to Answer Without Selling Yourself Cheap

We’ve all been there. You’ve killed the interview, the Oga at the table is nodding, and then the bomb drops, So, what is your salary expectation? Suddenly, your throat goes dry. If you say 150k and their budget was 300k, you’ve cheated yourself. If you say 500k and they only have 200k, you might lose the job. In this guide, we are showing you how to play this "Naira Chess" like a pro so you can get the take home pay you actually deserve.

In the Nigerian job market, salary talk is often treated like a secret. But here is the truth, the person who mentions a number first usually loses. Whether you are interviewing for a bank in Victoria Island or a startup in Abuja, you need a strategy that shows you know your worth but aren't "greedy."

1. The "Anything You Give Me" Trap

Never, ever say anything the company pays is okay by me. While you think you are being humble, the recruiter hears; "I don't know my value" or "I am desperate." Even if you are a fresh graduate, you have a value. Humility is good, but in a salary negotiation, desperation is a currency that buys you a low salary and Sapa for the next two years or more.

2. Do Your Market Research

Before you enter that interview room, you must know the market rate for that role.

Talk to friends in similar roles.
Consider the location: 200k in Lagos is not the same as 200k in Ibadan or Ondo because of transport and house rent.

3. The Range Strategy (The Golden Rule)

When you finally have to give a number, give a range, not a single figure. This gives you room to breathe.

What to do/say: Based on the responsibilities we discussed and the current market rate for an Investment Advisor in Abuja, I am looking for something in the range of N250,000 to N320,000 monthly take home."

By doing this, you've told them that N250k is your floor which is the lowest you'll go, and N320k is your dream. Most companies will try to meet you in the middle.

4. Negotiate the Full Package, Not Just the Cash

Sometimes, a company might not have the cash to meet your dream number. Don't walk away yet! Look at the total compensation. Ask about:

HMO (Health Insurance): This saves you money on hospital bills.
Transport/Fuel Allowance: Especially with the current price of fuel in Nigeria.
Remote Work: Earning 200k while working from home 3 days a week is often better than earning 250k and spending 80k on transport/fuel.
13th Month Salary: Confirm if they pay a bonus at the end of the year.

5. How to Handle the "Our Budget is Lower" Response

If they say, we only have 180k for this role, and you asked for 250k, don't just say no and leave. Try this:

What to do/say: I understand your budget constraints. I am very interested in this role because I know I can deliver XYZ results. Would the company be open to reviewing my performance and salary in 6 months instead of a year?

Lastly: Confidence is Key

Remember, the company is hiring you because they have a problem and they believe you can fix it. You are providing a service, and you deserve to be paid fairly for it. Negotiate with a smile, but stay firm on your value.