"What's Your Salary Expectation?" Bill Gates Offers the Perfect Answer

Bill Gates, the billionaire philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, once provided an insightful response to one of the most challenging job interview questions: "What is your salary expectation?" His thoughtful answer has since become a guide for candidates aiming to make a lasting impression during interviews.

During a 2020 appearance on NBA star Stephen Curry's YouTube series State of Inspiration, Gates took on the role of a junior software engineer applying for a position at Microsoft. When asked about his salary expectations, Gates refrained from giving a specific figure. Instead, he emphasized a strategic approach that reflects both confidence and a long-term vision.

"I hope the option package is good," Gates stated, according to Forbes. "I'm able to take risks, and I think the company has a great future, so I prefer to get stock options even more than cash compensation." He added, "I hear some other companies are paying a lot, but treat me fairly and emphasize the options."

This response highlights several key points for job seekers:

1. Belief in the Company: Gates’ preference for stock options over immediate cash demonstrates faith in the company’s future success.
2. Risk-Taking Mentality: By showing a willingness to take calculated risks, he positions himself as someone ready to invest in the organization’s growth.
3. Market Awareness: Mentioning other companies’ competitive pay subtly signals to the interviewer that the candidate is aware of their value and in demand.

Gates’ approach provides leverage in salary discussions by aligning personal interests with the company’s growth while also emphasizing fairness in compensation.

Handling Tough Questions With Confidence

The YouTube interview also explored other common job interview questions, including the dreaded "Why should we hire you?" Gates used this as an opportunity to showcase his achievements while remaining humble.

"You should look at the codes that I've written. I write software programs way beyond any classes that I've taken," Gates shared. "I think I've gotten better over time, so take a look at how ambitious I've been there." He further emphasized his teamwork skills, admitting he might occasionally critique others’ work harshly but underscoring his passion for collaboration and setting ambitious goals.

Gates’ response combines self-awareness with confidence, highlighting his growth, skills, and vision for the future. His candid acknowledgment of his flaws, paired with a focus on his strengths, presents him as a balanced and thoughtful candidate.

Key Takeaways for Job Seekers

Bill Gates’ answers provide valuable lessons for anyone navigating job interviews:

• Show Confidence Without Arrogance: Express belief in your abilities while acknowledging areas for improvement.
• Demonstrate Long-Term Vision: Highlight your willingness to invest in the company’s growth rather than focusing solely on immediate benefits.
• Highlight Your Achievements: Use tangible examples to showcase your skills and growth over time.

By adopting Gates’ approach, candidates can not only answer tough questions effectively but also leave a lasting impression on their interviewers.