How to Navigate and Negotiate the C Suite Job Offer

In the world of C-Suite and senior executives, change is the only constant. Embracing conversations about severance isn't awkward when you understand the dynamics of these roles. Sandra Cohen provides a riveting discussion with The Future is Bright Podcast Host, Chris Batz, giving tips on negotiating job offer terms.

"The most common thing I hear nearly every day on negotiations is, I hate negotiating my compensation. I usually ignore it, and now I've got this new offer or I'm getting a promotion." says executive compensation expert and attorney at Cohen and Buckmann, Sandra Cohen.

For Negotiation Tips, Listen to the podcast below!

Here are some of the highlights:

• "What's Negotiable in the Top Five Areas of the Contract?" (4:45m)

• "How do I introduce a discussion about severance at the time I'm getting hired? Awkward!" (7:30m)

• "Why Do Executives Undervalue The Equity Component of the Offer?" (12:50m)

• "Private-Equity Owned Employers: Equity Plan Terms" (17:15m) and

• "Avoiding the Liquidity Crunch Problem with Many Stock Options" (21:45m)

• "Best Kept Secret in Top Executive Job Moves" (24:29m)

• “When to hire a lawyer?” and “What’s the Difference Between an Employment Lawyer and an Executive Compensation Lawyer?” (40:30m)

Watch the full video! (fOR AN AUDIO-ONLY VERSION SCROLL TO THE END)

Listeners will gain an invaluable education as Sandra breaks down a job offer. Key components are highlighted including short-term and long-term compensation, sign-on bonuses, restrictive covenants, and the all-important severance protection. Sandra provides guidance on which questions to ask and when to broach specific topics.

For those with an eye on equity as part of their compensation package, Sandra delves deeper into its complexities. She touches on the unique advantages and potential pitfalls between the equity offerings of public and private companies. Sandra offers key insights on navigating these differences, including how to evaluate the true value of such equity, understanding vesting schedules, and the implications of liquidity events such as an IPO or acquisition. Armed with this knowledge, listeners can better assess the weight and worth of equity in their compensation negotiations.

A standout segment in this episode tackles termination and severance clauses. Rather than shying away, Sandra advises listeners to approach this head-on during the hiring process, positioning it as an essential part of risk management and job security. She offers strategies for handling potential challenges such as changes in company leadership or shifts in job roles, and points out crucial considerations for options in private companies.

This episode is an essential guide for anyone stepping into a C-suite negotiation. With Sandra's advice, you'll be better able to advocate for yourself or partner with an executive negotiation attorney to secure the best compensation package possible on your behalf.

AUDIO ONLY VERSION: