Offer Evaluation

Run the upgrade.

1. 01

   Build total compensation for the offer

   Value base, bonus, equity, retirement match, insurance, and PTO for the new offer using the same method as your total compensation review, so the comparison is apples-to-apples.

   Offer total comp = base + bonus + equity value + retirement match + benefits value + PTO value

2. 02

   Compare against your current total compensation

   Subtract your current total comp from the offer's total comp to see the real dollar difference, factoring in any cost-of-living or relocation change.

   Net gain = offer total comp - current total comp - relocation/COL adjustment

3. 03

   Score non-financial factors

   Rate the offer 1-5 on role scope, growth potential, manager/team quality, flexibility, commute, and job security, based on what you learned during interviews.

4. 04

   Assess risk factors

   Note any red flags: company financial stability, high turnover on the team, vague role scope, or unusually long vesting cliffs.

5. 05

   Weigh the tradeoffs against your priorities

   List your top 3 priorities (e.g., pay, flexibility, growth) and check whether the offer satisfies them better than your current situation.

6. 06

   Set a decision deadline

   Confirm the employer's response deadline and give yourself a clear date to decide, requesting an extension in writing if you need more time.