u/confusedgurl002

I had posted a few weeks ago about a crazy contract:

1. If you leave before 2 years, signing bonus is required back in full, not prorated.
2. Base salary is not guaranteed. If you don't make it, you owe them money.
3. If you leave before 5 years, you pay for your tail coverage.

I was really excited about the location so tried to negotiate.

The counter was equally ridiculous.

1. Signing bonus payback reduced to 1 year.

2. CMO said he would verbally guarantee base (the dollar amount is in writing) but there is a clawback clause that he claims doesn’t apply to the first two years. Won’t put it in writing but I should “trust him” because everyone would otherwise quit.

3. Tail reduced to 3 years.

I ultimately said no because the clawback seems really concerning to me even if he verbally says it does not apply to ramp on period. Having second thoughts because I had myself so set location wise.

thoughts?