The company I currently work for is looking to be acquired, specifically focused on a strategic investment/acquihire due to market condition and COVID related delays. Currently, I feel I'm underpaid; however, I was okay with it because I love the work and was fine waiting for later raises. Anyone experience an acquisition while at a startup, and if so how much power do I have to get a significant raise post transaction? TC: 95K + 45K stock options
The last time I was at a startup that had to find a buyer just to be saved ... Well they laid off 1/3 of the company an hour before it was announced so the acquirer wouldn't have to do it. So yeah sometimes you don't get to negotiate
Unless you are in a really unique position, I doubt you be able to negotiate, just think if buyer have to negotiate with every single employee. Happy to hear otherwise.
You might get laid off.
Yeah they laid a few people off when they announced the plan to sell, thankfully they have runway for a few more months to retain me
Depends entirely on the acquirer and the circumstances. If you’re essential talent as part of the deal you could get offered a retention bonus or other equity incentive. If the deal is just about customers or IP you’ll likely end up unemployed.
My current bosses have assured me I'd be considered essential talent because our modeling framework was 75% built by me and the internal data web app was built 100% by me. I guess it's best to just start applying elsewhere and go from there
OP, don’t believe everything the boss tells you. Just keep looking for the best fit.
I'd value your equity at zero (liquidation preferences) and start looking for a job independently.
Yeah I've started looking, the company is confident I'd be kept on post transaction because I've had my hand in most of the product but I still don't think I'd get paid what I probably should with 5 yoe