Added 14 Oct 2026, 5-minute read

“What are your salary expectations?” How to answer in a job interview in Czechia

This question comes up in almost every interview. Say too little and you earn less for years. Say too much and you may lose the offer. Here is how to get it right.

Why they ask

The company wants to know whether you fit the budget for the role. The first number you say is not final. It is the start of a negotiation.

Prepare your number in advance

• Find out what the profession and region pay: in the salary comparison or in salaries by profession.
• Add for the experience and responsibility the role requires.
• Set the lowest amount you would accept. Do not go below it.

Three ways to answer

Do not forget

• Talk about gross monthly salary and clarify whether it includes a variable part (bonuses).
• Ask about benefits: meal vouchers, extra holiday, home office, pension contributions. They are worth money.
• Ask when salaries are reviewed, for example “How often are salaries reviewed here?”

Do I have to say what I earn now?

No. You can say: “I would rather talk about what this role involves.” And under the planned amendment to the Czech Labour Code, this should change from 2027: companies should no longer ask about your previous salary and should tell you the pay before negotiations. The amendment has not been approved yet, more in Pay transparency in Czechia.

If the offer is low

Thank you for the offer, I am interested in the role. Based on what it involves and what the field pays, I was expecting [amount]. Is there room to get closer to it? Or could it be balanced another way, for example with bonuses or a salary review after the probation period?