How to Compare Job Offers: Salary, Equity, Growth and What Else Matters
To compare job offers, line them up side by side on total compensation, benefits, role and growth, working conditions and risk, and give each factor a weight that reflects your priorities. The highest base salary is not always the best offer.
Total compensation
Add base salary, bonus, equity, and anything else with a cash value. For equity, find out the type, vesting schedule and, for private companies, how much uncertainty there is, and weigh it accordingly.
Benefits
Health coverage, retirement contributions, paid leave and flexibility can differ in value by thousands. Ask for the details in writing.
Role and growth
Compare scope, manager, team, and what you'd learn. A slightly lower salary with a significantly better path may be worth it, depending on your goals.
Working conditions
Location, remote policy, hours, and travel affect daily life more than small salary gaps do.
Stability and risk
Consider the company's funding or financial position and how long the role has existed. This is hard to assess; ask questions and do your own research.
Decide with a deadline in mind
Offers expire. Record each deadline, and if you need more time, ask for it politely and early. Rezumz's Offer Tracker stores salary, bonus, equity and deadlines per offer, and lets you compare two to four side by side.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to negotiate?
Yes, in most cases. Be polite, specific, and ready to explain your reasoning.
How do I compare a startup offer with equity?
Treat equity as uncertain: understand the terms and don't count its full paper value as cash.
How long can I take to decide?
Offers have deadlines. If you need longer, ask as soon as you receive the offer.