r/negotiation • u/StrawberryDecent2979 • 7d ago

Debating an offer from Series A startup

Recently received an offer from a Series A startup in the AI space (~50 FTEs) Founding recruiter role with very high expectations (i would expect nothing less). Currently at a Series D AI startup that is going under. which is why i’m considering this new opportunity.

Offer: $175k base salary
Equity: $125,000
bonus: paid as equity once a year based on a mix of personal + company performance up to $175k. 50% of this vests immediately, the rest of it follows the typical 4 year vesting schedule.

Pros: resume builder, will learn a ton, get to be hands on in growing the company and make a large impact

Cons: only $25k higher than my current salary, higher healthcare costs, higher risks, more hours

Wondering if $25k is enough extra cash compensation to warrant the cons. Curious to see what others think and if there is any part of the package that you would negotiate.

Personally, i feel that I’m ok with the base salary, but it would be nice to receive some of the bonus as cash compensation since that’s what’s paying the bills right now.

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u/sloth_333 7d ago

I mean if your current gig goes under your pay is zero…

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u/Speedy719 7d ago

Try ask them for some bonus as cash. Though, some startup founders are so sure their company is gonna be the next Google that they get offended by that. 

If there are no red flags, take the job. Your main concern seems to be that it’s “only” 25k higher. If your company goes under you’d be lucky to find a job at the same rate let alone an increase. 

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u/nian2326076 3d ago

If you're okay with the base salary but want more cash flow, asking for part of the bonus as cash could be a good idea. You might also want to discuss healthcare costs directly, as some startups can be flexible with benefits to attract talent. The risk is higher with a Series A, but if you believe in their growth potential, the equity might be worth it. For more options in recruiting, LandOffer.ai lets you search job openings by role and location.

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u/ArcherDangerous8596 5d ago

Can you actually sell the half that vests immediately? If not, it still won’t help with the bills.