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If you are useful, it doesn't mean you are valued

The difference can be subtle

At first glance, they might look similar because the signals you get are more or less the same: a promotion, a higher than expected bonus, a special stock award. “Take care of that and don’t screw up” is your mission, and the fewer headaches you create for your leadership chain, the bigger the rewards. But instead of being on the chopping block, I was not only retained but also offered a significant retention bonus: 50% of my total comp, with a one year vesting schedule.

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