I got a verbal offer from a startup a few years ago. They told me we can pay you $160k + stock equities. I told them this is much less than my current TC. Then Hiring manager talked to his VPs and directors. They said max we can do is $170k base and we will not offer more because others in the company are already contributing and we cant offer more than them to you as a newcomer. It was still less than my TC. The work was interesting though and i really wanted to join to boostup my skills but one of the interviewer was a bit arrogant so i felt my life would be misearble there. I declined the offer. What is the best way to approach such scenarios? I am intouch with a reqruiter at a different startup now. I heard working at a startup could be lot of fun. Thank you! $200k TC/11YOE/EE
Join amazon in a new team
Hell no
lmao 😂 such reactions
In a similar situation I would negotiate harder for more stock (to whatever point you feel better matches your current TC) and be more flexible with the base salary; startups tend to be cash poore. I’m assuming you believe in this startup’s chances of success (you shouldn’t be joining them if you don’t).
Think like an investor. Would you invest your money in the startup? Do your due diligence from that angle, what’s their runway, market size, competition, risk, growth targets? Then the stocks you get are simply your sweat equity. Lastly, make sure you take enough to the owners/founders to ensure you can trust them. Good vibes basically. Both the above, plus hard work on your side for the new role. That’s all you can do. The rest, is luck!
You’re the arrogant one, it’s a startup! Not Intel.
What do you mean? Why would anyone accept lower pay in exchange for your experience ?
People don’t work at startups looking for a raise. That comes later if it’s successful.