Recruiter Gave Pay Up Front Then Asked for Salary

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zephyra

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zephyra
Aug 28, 2020 15 Comments

A recruiter messaged me asking if I would be interested in a position at a startup that paid 240k, plus benefits. The message title was even Data Engineer Position - $240,000. I said I'd be interested, he sent me the company info and description.

Now in the same message chain he's asking for my salary expectations. Is he asking for base salary with the rest being paid out in stock or was the 240 number just the upper range or something? Would 150 be reasonable to ask for, assuming I'm getting some stock as well? I know startups tend to skew heavier on the stock side

Current TC 125, YOE 4

#recruiter #salary

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TOP 15 Comments
  • VMware
    dwight sh

    Go to company page VMware

    dwight sh
    Ask for $240k base + stocks.
    Aug 28, 2020 6
    • New / Data
      zephyra

      New Data

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      zephyra
      OP
      I didn't think I'd be worth that much but I'm pretty sure I would be their only data engineer and its in a bit of a niche sector that I have a lot of experience in. However I'm only an expert in SQL/ETL/Data Warehousing; I don't really use any other language on a daily basis other than C#. I figured that wouldn't be worth that much.
      Aug 28, 2020
    • New / Data
      zephyra

      New Data

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      zephyra
      OP
      I feel like it could be a disqualifier for startups. My current boss once rescinded an offer when the candidate asked for way too much and seemed "unenthused" about the benefits during negotiation. Maybe that's just my company though
      Aug 28, 2020
  • Roku
    cruelIa

    Go to company page Roku

    cruelIa
    If the recruiter already said 240, wtf r u talking 150?

    Imagine if u said u r looking for a range of 225-250, what a recruiter will come back with? They won’t say 250 or 240 or 230. They will be back with 225.
    Aug 28, 2020 2
    • New / Data
      zephyra

      New Data

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      zephyra
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      To me "pay" meant TC, so I figured he was asking for what portion I wanted in salary vs stocks but I might be misinterpreting
      Aug 28, 2020
    • Roku
      cruelIa

      Go to company page Roku

      cruelIa
      Err on side that benefits you.
      Even if u r confused about 240 being base, if it wasn’t made clear consider it base.
      Aug 28, 2020
  • Dropbox
    xBAf67

    Go to company page Dropbox

    xBAf67
    I would just reply “At least 240k assuming great benefits”. That sets expectations but still gives you room to negotiate since a start-up probably has sub-par benefits. Once they make an offer you can negotiate the breakdown of cash vs. stock.
    Aug 28, 2020 0