Hi. I've just been offered my first job in the game industry and I'm using the 2003 Gamasutra Salary Survey (http://www.gamasutra.com/features/20040211/olsen_01.shtml) as one guide in my salary/benefits negotiation. The salary I've been offered is in line with my experience outside of the industry and seems fair to me. However, I noticed that the survey also includes a figure for "Average Additional Compensation." What, exactly, is meant by that? Is that simply the value of benefits (like health insurance, 401k matching etc) or is it "bonus" money that I should expect. Or is it a bit of both? Given that the "Average Additional Compensation" for my area (Design/Writing) is $17,321, how might that break down (in terms of indirect benefits and direct "bonus" money)? Again, I'm new to the industry and would appreciate the wisdom of those who have been there before. Many Thanks, -b [edited by - BcS on March 9, 2004 2:54:21 PM]

I think it is your benefit package, plus bonuses if any.