A controversial subject, the awarding of a year-end bonus occupies a large part of the reflections of managers and human resources at the end of the year. Independently of the legal provisions, the bonus is an indirect way for management to convey a message to its employees.
Good health. In the entrepreneurial logic, the awarding of a bonus is considered when the company’s activity is profitable and allows redistribution to employees of part of the results. Receiving a bonus testifies to the financial health of the company and can reassure the employee about its sustainability.
Managerial satisfaction. Discussed during the annual evaluation, the awarding of the bonus is communicated by the manager in addition to their feedback. It thus testifies to the manager’s satisfaction with the employee. The amount awarded can be a source of questioning. To avoid any over-interpretation, it is essential to communicate clearly about the salary policy.
Performance vs. encouragement? We have been taught since childhood the importance of doing our work well. The non-attribution of a bonus can be explained and understood if we reason in terms of results. Nevertheless, an encouragement bonus would take on its full meaning when efforts and team spirit are high but results are insufficient.
Fairness? That is the issue. Fairness refers to a feeling or a perception of justice. The notion of « fair » must transpire in the mode of bonus attribution. It is essential to observe a coherence and a guideline. Reward results and only results? Take into account the efforts made? Value a behavior? Highlight a team spirit?
To avoid. Acting on a case-by-case basis, deciding overnight on a new compensation policy are clumsiness to avoid. The effects are most often negative: rejection, resistance to change, even desire to change positions.
Objective: motivate. The role of the bonus is clear: it is there to motivate. Team spirit, effort and attitude are also performances, non-tangible and non-quantifiable, but which can be rewarded. Each person contributes to the value and functioning of the company. The important thing is to recognize it.
