Vickie May

Vickie May Quick Facts

  How to get a better bonusWere you disappointed with the amount of your last bonus or do you feel your efforts warrant a bonus even if it’s not technically a part of your compensation package. Here some tips to help you get a (better) bonus.Ask for one!It sounds so simple but it's the best way for you to get a bonus. Approach your boss now, tell him or her you want a bonus and you'd like to develop a plan for you to get one. Together you can develop goals to meet before they can justify paying you a bonus. Be sure to document the points of your agreement in writing.Show initiative!Don’t wait for your boss to tell you what to do. Instead take initiative. For example, do something to simplify your boss’ job, suggest ways to improve a process for the company, etc.Be valuable!Take on extra projects or responsibilities that may or may not be in your job description. Help other people or departments when they need extra help.Document your successes!Keep a weekly log documenting what projects you have completed, noting especially the accomplishments and extra responsibilities you took on. This way when it comes time to discuss your bonus or ask for a bonus, you can show your boss exactly what you have accomplished for the company.Evaluate where you stand in the company versus outside opportunities. Understand what the market is paying for electrical engineer skills resume someone at your level. Be objective. Study at least a couple of salary surveys since there can be variance from one to the other. Once, you have validated that you are, in fact, underpaid, (many employees that feel they are underpaid, are not) determine a strategy.In general, it is best to link salary considerations with performance discussions. If you feel you are unfairly compensated, it is likely that you believe your contributions to the organization outweigh your remuneration. Request a performance evaluation from your supervisor and listen. Is his/her perspective different from your own? If so you need to work on changing that. Either your accomplishments need greater recognition or you need to re-evaluate your own performance. Or, if your evaluation was favorable you can respond with a salary request. The worst they can say is no, then the decision to stay or go is yours to make.If your salary increases haven’t been great, ask yourself if it is your performance or the campany’s? If it’s yours, improve it. If it’s the company's, ask yourself what kind of future you and the company have.