The question "What are your salary requirements?" can strike fear into the eager hearts of job seekers. Here, a reader asks for advice on how to respond:

When you are applying for a job and an interviewer asks for your salary requirements, [1] how should you respond, especially if you do not have a current salary?

Our answer: Your salary requirements [2] are quite simply, and honestly, negotiable. [3] You don't have a salary history to divulge, so you really are at a jumping-off point, and your salary will be based not only on what is a fair number but also on the other benefits offered.

If asked for your requirements in a cover letter, [4] write, "My salary requirements are negotiable." Something so simple can help you get your foot in the door for an interview, naming a number too high could make them apprehensive about bringing you in, and identifying a number too low [5] could hurt your chances of securing the best possible salary. If you've done thorough salary research using the Internet, made phone calls, and had discussions with other first-year associates, you could name a salary range, but only do so if you're very comfortable and confident that you've gathered accurate information.

It's also likely that you will be asked about salary during your interview. [6] Prevent a deer-in-headlights reaction by having a prepared response. Choose from two options: Respond by saying something along the lines of, "My salary is negotiable considering other benefits and what your firm thinks is a reasonable start." The other choice would be to mention a salary range that leaves plenty of room for negotiation.