“What is your current CTC?” and “How much salary are you expecting” are common HR interview questions where the recruiter opens the channel of discussion regarding money.
These questions allow the recruiter to understand whether you are aware of your own valuation and whether you will be able to fit into their company budget for the role.
Often we get confused about the details to provide when answering “What is your current CTC?” We either tend to give bare minimum information or evade answering this HR interview question altogether.
If you are someone who faces the same confusion, then this is the blog for you!
In this piece, we will provide you with sample answers and tips to answer “What is your current CTC?” so that you can sound confident next time you face this HR interview question.
Let’s begin!
Sample answers of "What is your current CTC?"
Here are a few ways to answer the HR round interview question “What is your current CTC?”
Sample answer #1
“ My current CTC is 7.4 LPA which includes my annual entitlements of 10K LTA reimbursements, Gratuity, Group Medical Insurance of 11.5K, and Annual Management bonus of 50K.
Apart from these my fixed entitlements include 21K basic salary, 10K HRA, 12K Special allowance, Statutory Bonus of 3K, and the company’s EPF contribution of 1K. So, after deductions, my net salary is approximately 43K.”
Sample answer #2:
“My current CTC is 11.4LPA which includes my basic salary, HRA, LTA reimbursements, Gratuity, Annual management bonus, EPF contributions, etc. Additionally, there is a variable incentive that I receive every month on the completion of sales targets.
For example, last month, I was one of the top achievers in my team and I closed 95% of target sales, for which I received a 15% incentive for the business I acquired.”
Tips for answering "What is your current CTC?"
The following tips can help you to field the question “What is your current CTC?” during your HR interview round.
Revisit your offer/appraisal letter
Your offer letter/ appraisal letter comes with a complete breakdown of your total CTC. This will give you an insight into the elements and benefits your current company provides and can help you answer “What is your current CTC?” comprehensively.
Thoroughly understand your monthly pay slip
When answering “ What is your current CTC?” it is important to have a clear understanding of your net salary after deductions.
Remember, you will need to submit your salary breakup/ pay slips if you bag the job so fibbing will only land you in trouble.
Avoid lying about your net salary or to any of the HR interview round questions.
Identify the fixed and variable component
Your CTC comprises of various elements, some of which are fixed like your basic HRA, EPF, etc while others are variables such as quarterly/half-yearly/annual bonus, incentives, profit sharing, retention bonus, Rewards & recognition (R&R), etc.
Usually, working professionals don’t pay much attention to the constituents of their salary breakup. This can dampen their chances of leaving a good impression when answering “What is your current CTC?” as it projects them as ill-informed.
Knowing these factors will not only help you negotiate better but will also show that you have an understanding of your salary breakup.
Discuss your in-hand salary too
Similar to answering any other HR round interview questions, you must be able to answer “What is your current CTC?” properly.
You should be able to break down your in-hand salary or net salary along with your gross breakup to be able to give a concrete answer for any follow-up question after “What is your current CTC?”
Tip: Get in touch with your respective HR business partner to understand your CTC breakup when you join a new organization.
This will help you to know your salary package better irrespective of whether or not you have a job interview lined up.
Mention additional perks or incentives, if any
Make sure to mention any additional incentives or perks apart from your net salary and other breakups of your salary. This will give the recruiter an idea of what you receive and what you’ll be expecting from the company.
“What is your current CTC?” may seem easier to answer than the rest of the HR round interview questions. However, do not take it too lightly as it can still affect your chance of bagging the job.
Relevant read: 56 HR interview questions and answers asked frequently.
You do not want to come off as someone who is clueless about their total CTC and only concerned about their in-hand salary. This could become a reason for the recruiter to drop your candidature.
So, practice and research well when answering “What is your current CTC?”
All the Best!
FAQs
What is your current CTC answer?
Your current CTC (Cost to Company) is the total amount a company spends on you annually, including all monetary and non-monetary amounts. This includes your base salary, bonuses, any allowances, and benefits. When asked in an interview, clearly state the total figure, specifying any variable components or bonuses.
What is the current CTC for freshers?
The current CTC for freshers can vary widely depending on the industry, the role, and the company's size and location. Generally, it includes a base salary, benefits, and sometimes, performance-linked bonuses or other perks. For specific figures, research industry standards or check job advertisements for similar roles.
What is your CTC salary?
Your CTC salary refers to the total package agreed upon in your employment contract, encompassing all components like basic pay, allowances, benefits, and any bonuses or incentives. It represents the total expense employers incur for employing you over a year.
How do I find my current CTC?
To find your current CTC, refer to your salary slip or HR/payroll documents where all components of your salary are detailed. This includes basic pay, bonuses, allowances, and other financial benefits. If unclear, consult your HR department for a detailed breakdown.
