But more and more Internet companies are offering stock options as part of their compensation plans. And not all shares are created equal. Company sizes and fundings vary widely. Stock up on knowledge of your value, your employer's financial details and the way options work. Here's a guide to the wonderful world of options.
Candidates have to do their due diligence.
But negotiating how much equity is your challenge. If you do, let those guide you in determining how many options to ask for. If you don't have options, think about your current salary and what your position will be in the new company. If you are getting a better title, but the company can't match your salary, make sure you are compensated with options. Recruiters say your compensation from options should be higher than if it was included in your weekly paycheck, because of the wait involved.