Stop leaving $50k on the table

May 15, 2025 12:51 am

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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