If a prospective employer uses a gap to justify a lower offer, what should the candidate's initial salary expectation align with?

Answer

Market rates for the role being applied for, factoring in current skills

Initial salary expectations should align with the current market value for the specific role being sought, taking into account the skills the candidate currently possesses.

If a prospective employer uses a gap to justify a lower offer, what should the candidate's initial salary expectation align with?
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