Startup offer negotiations

Jun 30, 2020 10 Comments

I’m in the process of interviewing with a startup (200 ish employees) for a senior swe and need some guidance on negotiations if it gets to that point.

I live in the midwest so dont judge tc the same

I have 6 years of experience as swe and i put 120k for desired salary on the application and the hr person who screened me said that was right in the range and should be no problem

The question i have is around stock options/ rsus and sign on bonus. On glassdoor there is no mention of rsus or stock options but i’m wondering if i should ask for them and if so how much? Also what is a reasonable amount to ask for as a sign on bonus?

I actually really want this specific job so i don’t want to ask for too much and turn them off but also I want $$$ like the rest of us

comments

Want to comment? LOG IN or SIGN UP
TOP 10 Comments
  • New
    FJzt40

    New

    FJzt40
    Jun 30, 2020 2
  • Amazon
    yh2GnvQ6

    Go to company page Amazon

    yh2GnvQ6
    Ask for the post-money share price at last funding round, strike price now, and shares outstanding. You can calculate your percentage of the company with that given the offer. Depending on how early you get in, you'll want a higher % stake, regardless of share price. It's a massive risk so you can demand a significant number of shares now, it's just paper to them and you'll be diluted at the next round anyway, if there is one.
    Jun 30, 2020 1
    • Thanks, This is helpful. Looks like they have only done 1 round so far. Do you have any idea how much compared to 120k salary you would ask for? I know you can’t give me the numbers exactly but should I ask for 30k or 100k equivalent using the numbers they come back with (understanding that’s not likely to pan out)
      Jun 30, 2020
  • Amazon
    yh2GnvQ6

    Go to company page Amazon

    yh2GnvQ6
    Senior swe and you only asked for 120k? You're about to get robbed, should have come here first, or at least checked levels.fyi - you're worth much more than that, and with everyone starting remote now, it doesn't matter that you're in the Midwest. Interview at a faang, get a real offer and use it as leverage.
    Jun 30, 2020 1
    • Fair, but also I’m very happy with life now no need to ruin that working to death. What would you think I should be asking for?
      Also not sure how accurate it is but Glassdoor has average salary for the closest city at 90k for senior with 6 yoe
      Jun 30, 2020
  • Roku
    repocalyse

    Go to company page Roku

    repocalyse
    You def want to know the Aprox strike price.

    Also if u can get the company valuation at last round.
    What you likely won’t get it total # shares.
    Jun 30, 2020 2