Evaluating & Negotiating Your Offer
Understanding Your Value and Advocating for It
Anatomy of an Offer Letter
An offer is more than just a salary. It’s a total compensation package. Understanding each component is the first step to a successful evaluation and negotiation.
Base Salary
The fixed amount of money you earn annually. This is the most common point of negotiation.
Bonuses & Equity
Performance-based bonuses, signing bonuses, or stock options (equity). These can significantly increase your total earnings.
Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance. The value of a good benefits package can be worth thousands of dollars per year.
Paid Time Off (PTO) & Perks
Vacation days, sick leave, holidays, and other perks like professional development stipends or remote work options.
Salary vs. Total Compensation
A higher salary doesn’t always mean a better offer. This chart illustrates how benefits and bonuses can make a lower-salaried offer more valuable overall.
The Negotiation Playbook
Negotiation is an expected, professional conversation. Following these steps ensures you approach it with confidence and data.
1. Always Say Thank You & Ask for Time
Express enthusiasm for the offer. Never accept on the spot. Politely ask for a few days to review it in detail.
2. Do Your Research
Use sites like Glassdoor and Levels.fyi to determine the market rate for your role, location, and experience level. This data is your leverage.
3. Build Your Case
Prepare a brief script. Reiterate your value and excitement, then present your research-backed request. Focus on the total package, not just salary.
4. Be Professional & Know Your Walk-Away Point
Maintain a positive and collaborative tone. Be prepared for them to say no, and know what your minimum acceptable offer is before you begin the conversation.