Level 1: a ton of money. Level 2: L1 + interesting work Level 3: L2 + intelligent co-workers Level 4: L3 + deep skills Level 5: L4 + mentor Level 6: L5 + awesome network Level 7: L6 + personal growth Level 8: L7 + meaningful contribution Level 9: L8 + work-life balance Level 10: L9 + recognized SME Timing and circumstances influence what you get....not always the same for equally talented ppl.

Making a "ton of money"....it matters because new people want to know what price is paid for exceptional comp.