Comp vs Level

Compensation bands are usually anchored to level. A small level bump can outpace months of haggling over a few thousand dollars.

• base: stable, smaller differences by level.
• bonus: often % of base, increases with level.
• equity: the big swing; target value and refresh cadence scale with level.
• sign-on: make-whole for forfeited equity; time-based clawbacks matter.

If level can’t move, push for stronger refresh philosophy, earlier promo windows, and a sign-on structured to cover the ramp.