2 ms·
Ask HN: Startup stock options %
Clueless question: I'm transitioning over from Big Co to a startup (series c, so pretty established and not early stage), and they're offering some stock options. I asked the recruiter what % of outstanding shares my options would represent, and he says they legally can't disclose that info. Does that make any sense? Shouldn't they actually be legally bound to let me know how much my compensation is worth? For all I know there could be a trillion shares and my compensation is worth peanuts, right?
- jaredhansen 15y agoThe recruiter might not be able to tell you because the company told him/her not to, so in that sense the recruiter legally can't disclose it. It makes no sense at all for the company to say that though, and if the company refuses to tell you the % that your shares represent, it's a bad sign.
- lollys 15y agoI actually meant the company recruiter, so I guess it technically is the company. They did mention the word "legally" though, so I dunno if I can contest that. What are the odds that they actually can't disclose it? Otherwise salary and benefits are okay (a bit below what I earn now, but I expected that anyway) and it seems like a really established startup with a lot of potential, so this just strikes me a little weird. I'm not sure I'd forfeit the offer just because of this, but I just really don't want them to be shady about this, or anything :\