Negotiating equity in a job offer
A number of shares means nothing without the denominator, the strike and the terms around them.
Ask for
Fully diluted share count, latest preferred and 409A price, grant type (ISO/NSO/RSU), vesting schedule and cliff, post-termination exercise window, and acceleration terms.
What is negotiable
Grant size almost always; exercise window and early-exercise rights often; strike price essentially never.
Compare honestly
Discount private equity value heavily against liquid cash and public RSUs before you decide.
This article is educational and not tax, legal, or financial advice. Talk to a CPA or tax advisor about your specific situation.