phData Offer Call — Checklist
Tomorrow’s call with Elise | Print this
RULE #1: Do not accept on the spot. “I’d love to review the full package and get back to you.”
Ask on this call (the essentials)
- Base salary — what’s the number?
- Healthcare — does phData offer employer-sponsored coverage? Family plan? What’s the employee cost?
- Signing bonus — is one included?
- Moonlighting / side projects — “I run a newsletter and content business on the side. Is that compatible with the role?” (Don’t over-explain — just gauge reaction)
Ask for in writing (before you sign)
- Full offer letter with base, bonus, benefits summary
- Non-compete clause — scope and duration
- IP assignment language — does it cover personal projects?
- Remote work confirmation in the offer letter
Know before you sign (can ask on follow-up call)
- 401K match — % and vesting schedule
- PTO — policy and actual usage culture
- Ongoing bonus structure — quarterly $1,500, anything else?
- Certification bonus details ($200-750)
- Article bounty — is there a cap per year?
- Equity / phantom equity / profit sharing — any program?
- Travel expectations — % of time, client on-site?
- Performance review / salary review cadence
- Title — Senior Consultant or Principal?
- Start date — what’s their timeline vs yours?
- Equipment / home office stipend
Your numbers (don’t volunteer — but know them cold)
| Number | |
|---|---|
| Your stated floor | $210K |
| Lateral move | $225-230K |
| Milestone / clear win | $250K |
| Wife quits her job | $280-300K |
| Healthcare savings if covered | +$25K/year |
If they give a number below $210K
“I appreciate the offer. As I mentioned earlier in the process, $210K is the floor for me to make this work. Is there flexibility on base, or could a signing bonus help bridge the gap?”
If they give $210-225K
“That’s in the range we discussed. I’d love to see the full package in writing — healthcare, bonus, and equity details will help me evaluate the total picture.”
If they give $225K+
“That’s strong. I’m excited. Let me review the full package and I’ll get back to you within 48 hours.”
After the call
- Do NOT respond same day even if the number is great
- Text me the details — I’ll run the total comp math with healthcare savings
- Review the negotiation framework in Obsidian for counter-offer scripts if needed
- Sleep on it