offer-letter

Overview

Based on The Alliance by Reid Hoffman (mutual benefit framing), Who by Smart and Street (selling the A player), and Work Rules! by Bock (transparency in comp). An offer is not a form - it's the last sales pitch. Candidates are deciding whether to leave security for uncertainty. The offer has to make that decision feel rational and safe. The framing of total comp, growth, and the mission all matter as much as the number.

Workflow

Step 1: Confirm Hiring Decision and Comp Budget

Before constructing the offer, confirm:

• Final hire decision is documented and approved
• Budget range: base, equity, bonus, start date flexibility
• Comp band for the level (if [your company] uses bands)
• Any approved exceptions or flexibility

Do not make a verbal offer before budget is confirmed. Verbal offers that get walked back destroy trust.

Step 2: Understand the Candidate's Priorities