Check what the salary number means
Confirm currency, gross or net basis, pay period, hours, and whether the range is a base salary or includes variable compensation. Ask whether a part-time figure is prorated and whether bonuses depend on company, team, or individual results.
Compare like with like. Convert annual and monthly amounts only after confirming whether the amount is paid twelve or more times per year, and note whether compensation is a range, target, or guaranteed amount.
Estimate take-home pay carefully
Tax and payroll deductions depend on the work location, tax year, residency, family circumstances, benefits, and individual deductions. A calculator can help with early planning, but it is not a payroll quote or personal tax advice.
Use the job’s location as a starting point, then check the relevant tax authority or a qualified adviser before accepting an offer. Ask the employer how health cover, pension, leave, equity, and any relocation support are treated.
Compare the whole work arrangement
List recurring costs that change with the job: housing, commuting, childcare, insurance, equipment, and travel to an office. For an international move, also ask about relocation timing, right-to-work requirements, probation, currency of payment, and who covers one-time expenses.
Consider non-cash factors alongside pay: schedule predictability, manager support, learning opportunities, contract security, and the work you will own. Write down your priorities before negotiating so you know which trade-offs are acceptable.
Action checklist
- Confirm currency, pay period, hours, and gross/net basis.
- Separate guaranteed pay from bonus or equity.
- Estimate recurring location-specific costs.
- Check local payroll and eligibility details with authoritative sources.
- Keep an offer comparison with assumptions and questions still open.