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From The Archive

18. That's why it's called compensation.
In the rush to negotiate the best deal possible, job hunters every day forget what they're negotiating for. You're not negotiating money. You're negotiating the price of freedom to do the job without distraction.

The money and benefits a company bestows on you in exchange for your services should completely free you from worry about the demands of your personal life so that you can devote your time to, and focus your energy on, the work the employer needs you to do. Literally speaking, a good job offer should "relieve, equalize or neutralize… pressure or stress" associated with any aspect of your life that might distract you from the job.

It matters that you're earning what you're worth and that you're earning all you can. But, a good job offer starts with a company taking care of your needs so you can take care of its needs. That's the foundation of a good deal. And that's why it's called compensation.