<prompt> Human: I hope this is the right subreddit for this. I recently got a really good job offer from another company offering 20 more on salary with added benefits. My current employer has offered me 30 share of the business small company with a turnover of 1 mil year with an initial 10, and 10 each year for 2 years. I have spoken to him about this and the intent is to sell the business in 3 years if possible. How does it work? If they sell the business in 3 years for X, do I get 30 of that lump sum? Does this depend on the share type? If so, what shares should I be looking out for in the contract? Any other clauses I should look to include? I dont quite trust the director which is causing the hesitance. I want to make sure my share would be protected and it yields some returns in the event of a sale. Otherwise the new job offer would be a much better option. Any advice? Any questions welcome, Ill do my best to respond ASAP. Thanks in advanceEdit: Thank you for all the replies. Ill try go through them and feedback on any questions to help clarify. Really helpful! Edit 2: Quick update: I should have mentioned, my current employer does not know about the alternative job offer. Both events just kicked of at the same time. Edit 3: Thank you everyone for the brilliant advice!! Making a decision this week. Will keep you posted.Edit 4: Took the other Job offer :  <response>: Just go with the new job. Your old place is probably going to overwork you in exchange for those shares and unless you get a lawyer to review it, you cant be sure it isnt without terms that will screw you over. An easy one is before the sale, they issue more shares diluting your share to almost nothing.Notice how he offered you shares and no extra pay? For all you know, they are going under.If you take the shares, you must get a lawyer and have it evaluated the same as any potential buyer. Which means you need to also look through their books to determine the financial state of the company.But expect to be fired within 11 months before you get the first set of shares, or he will offer you the shares but not vest them for 5 years. Something to prevent you from ever getting anything. 