Question on TC From Blue Origin (Software Engineer II in Kent Washington)
Hi all, I'm new here and I need some quick advice. I have an offer in hand from a local company (San Diego) for $130k. The cost of living adjusted value for the Seattle area is ~$145. I was wondering how much to ask for. They want to go forward with an offer, but they want to know how much I want. Also, I would be needing relocation, and a signing bonus would be nice. How much do I ask for? This is a California -> Kent, WA move which is >1200miles. I have a 3b2b house with a garage. What should I be asking for as far as TC is concerned? Do I ask for a signing bonus as a percentage of my salary? If so, what percent? Same question for relocation, how much do I ask for, or do I let them offer first? Thank you.
I've never heard of sign-on bonuses being expressed as a percentage of base salary. Maybe other markets are different? Just ask for the number. ie, 18k
Ok. Could you guide me on what sounds reasonable to ask for? Overall average salary for SW is 147 and senior level average is 170. How much is a reasonable relocation package ? Do I ask for an amount or let them give a standard package ?
There's conflicting advice on whether you have the company provide the first number (in case they offer more than you would have asked!) or whether you provide the first number (to anchor the negotiation). It really depends on how much data there is on salaries at that company, at that location, for the given role. And whether you have good feedback from the recruiter on how well you did and what level you have been slotted for. You can probably ask for 10-20% more than what you'd settle for without sabotaging the entire negotiation. Others may suggest less or even more, but 10-20% should be safe. For relocation, it's very hard to say. Some companies are generous, some aren't. If you aren't sure about this company, then doing your research can't hurt. Get estimates on how much it will actually cost to relocate and provide that data (plus padding) when they ask for justification. The more you do a lot of research and leg work the more willing a recruiter will be to argue your case.
Not sure if you are here. Would you mind sharing about how much did you end up getting as tc(base , joining bonus , relocation)? Also what is your yoe?
Could you share how it went?
I was thinking of asking for 150, 12% signing, and 20k for relocation?