Compensation will be a key factor in your decision whether to accept a new position. However, few people take the time to really understand their economic choices, mostly because there are so many hidden factors, such as cost of living, benefits, and so forth. To help you put your choices into perspective, use the following guide to evaluate your prospective compensation package with what you´re currently earning.
| Current Job | New Job | Element to Consider |
| $ | $ | Base salary |
| $ | $ | Bonus, commissions |
| $ | $ | Additional perks |
| $ | $ | Profit sharing potential |
| $ | $ | Value of stock or equity |
| $ | $ | Pension |
| $ | $ | 401(k) contribution |
| $ | $ | Reimbursed expenses |
| $ | $ | Cost of living differences |
| $ | $ | Moving expenses |
| $ | $ | Travel expenses |
| $ | $ | Insurance premiums |
| $ | $ | Property taxes |
| $ | $ | State, local taxes |
| $ | $ | Sales taxes |
| $ | $ | Other expenses (specify) |
| $ | $ | $ Difference (+/-) |