Offer and platform comparison
Compare the platform—not just the headline payout.
Base, bonus, payout, or carry is only one part of the decision. Normalize the economics, operating support, risk, ownership, and path before you say yes.
The outcome
A side-by-side decision memo that exposes tradeoffs before momentum turns into pressure.
Normalize compensation
Separate guaranteed, formulaic, discretionary, deferred, and contingent components. Note payment timing, clawbacks, vesting, hurdles, and what happens if you leave.
Understand the operating platform
The same title can mean very different work. Compare team quality, product access, technology, research, operations, compliance, lead flow, client ownership, and administrative burden.
Price the transition risk
Ask what you give up, what must go right, and how long the ramp can take. Advisor moves should examine portability, transition support, restrictions, client communication, and ownership. Institutional moves should examine mandate stability, team turnover, and investment-process autonomy.
Put promises in writing
Treat verbal guidance as context, not a contractual term. Review the written offer, plan documents, restrictive covenants, and licensing conditions. Use qualified legal, tax, or financial advice where appropriate.
Put the guide beside the opportunity
