Base salary or bonus

[jeepman91919]

It would obviously depend on how much higher the salary was. Without that information you can't make a logical decision. Example: $50,000 salary with 15% bonus = $57,500. 80,000 salary + 5% bonus = $84,000, as well as the likelihood you would receive the entire bonus.

[reneeh63]

Consider that many times, future raises are a percentage of your base pay and bonuses are NOT included in your base. Yes, it's money but doesn't help increase your salary over the years. It also might not be included in a pension (if your employer provides one). Think about the long term benefits and not just the short term bucks. Also, bonuses can't be counted on - even if it's supposedly based on performance that may not be measured objectively and you work your butt off but the bonus doesn't come through. A bird in the hand is worth 2 in the bush.

[g89]

Originally Posted by RVD90277

Of course guaranteed money (base pay) is better than a bonus that is going to be variable. Usually the total compensation with bonus is going to be higher but there is more risk since it's not guaranteed.

For me, if the bonus is high enough I'd take it. But it would probably have to be at least 15% (ideally 20+% higher).

e.g.
Job A - base of $60k, no bonus = expected compensation $60k, no risk.
Job B - base of $55k, expected bonus 20% = expected comp $66k, some risk
Job C - base of $50k, expected bonus 50% = expected comp $75k, lot of risk

I don't know if I'd always go with Job A...

which industry offers a 50% base salary bonus???
....the same goes for 20%?

I doubt many people on CD are professional athletes or f500 CEO's...you could have used a more realistic example for your bonus percentage.

[lenniel]

Originally Posted by jaypee

I think establishing/commanding a higher base salary is more beneficial for your career.
It's also guaranteed.

Agree with this.
Base is 'guaranteed', bonuses are not.
Lots of recruiters will try to sell you on the 'uncapped bonus' or 'great incentive comp plan' to make up for a less than ideal base.

In addition, if you move companies, the higher base gives you more negotiating room at the new company. They don't care about what your bonus potential was.