You’re earning a good salary.
But are you earning what you’re truly worth?
Most tech professionals miss out on an extra $50k or more every year.
Why? Because they only negotiate base salary — leaving equity, bonuses, and perks untouched.
Think of your compensation like a dinner table:
→ Base salary is the main course.
→ Equity is the side dish that could turn into a feast.
→ Bonuses are the surprise dessert — sweet but often overlooked.
→ Perks? Those are the after-dinner drinks that keep giving.
Problem is, most people sit down at the table and only eat what’s in front of them.
They don’t realize there’s a whole spread waiting to be served — if they ask for it.
Here’s how to claim the full meal:
→ Decode the total package — know how to value equity, bonuses, and perks.
→ Align your role with the right level — a ‘Senior Designer’ at one company might be a ‘Lead’ elsewhere.
→ Ask the right questions — not just “what’s the salary?” but “how does equity vest?” and “what’s the bonus structure?”
If you’ve been treating your job offers like a set menu, it’s time to start ordering à la carte.
Because in tech, the difference between a $100k role and a $150k package isn’t just skill.
It’s knowing what to ask for.
Reply back to this email — what’s one part of your package you’ve been ignoring?
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