Grokking Comp Negotiation in Tech Course Syllabus
Full curriculum breakdown — modules, lessons, estimated time, and outcomes.
Overview: This course is designed to equip tech professionals with the knowledge and confidence to effectively negotiate compensation packages at top technology companies. Through six concise modules totaling approximately 3 weeks of part-time study, learners will explore the components of compensation, research market data, practice negotiation strategies, and develop long-term career plans. Each module combines foundational concepts with hands-on exercises to ensure practical application.
Module 1: Introduction to Compensation Negotiation
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Why negotiation matters in tech careers
- Understanding your market value
- Common misconceptions about negotiation
- Self-assessment of current skills and compensation history
Module 2: Components of a Compensation Package
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Base salary: fixed vs. variable components
- Equity: stock, RSUs, and vesting schedules
- Bonuses: signing, performance, and retention
- Benefits and perks: health, remote work, and retirement
Module 3: Research & Market Data
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Using Levels.fyi to benchmark compensation
- Interpreting data from Glassdoor and Blind
- Evaluating offers across company sizes and stages
- Comparing real-world offer letters using data tools
Module 4: The Negotiation Process
Estimated time: 6 hours
- Effective communication with recruiters
- Anchoring: setting the right initial number
- Handling counteroffers and pushback
- Timing: when to negotiate during the hiring process
- Drafting negotiation email templates and simulating calls
Module 5: Multiple Offers & Decision Making
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Evaluating competing offers objectively
- Creating a weighted decision matrix
- Managing pressure and emotions in decision-making
- Strategies for leveraging multiple offers ethically
Module 6: Special Scenarios & Long-Term Strategy
Estimated time: 3 hours
- Startups vs. big tech: trade-offs in compensation structure
- Negotiating internal promotions and transfers
- Visa and relocation considerations
- Building a long-term compensation growth strategy
Prerequisites
- Familiarity with tech job roles (e.g., software engineer, product manager)
- Basic understanding of employment terms (salary, job offer)
- Access to internet-based research tools (Levels.fyi, Glassdoor)
What You'll Be Able to Do After
- Analyze and compare total compensation packages confidently
- Use market data to benchmark your value accurately
- Negotiate offers with proven scripts and strategies
- Evaluate multiple job offers using a structured framework
- Develop a long-term plan for maximizing career earnings