i get bonuses every year. if you didn't get one u probably weren't good enough for 1 or couldnt perform or just don't make the cut buddy
Bonuses to be effective as motivators need to go to a small percentage of staff who deserve them. Or to a larger percentage of staff if size of bonus is related to performance.
As soon as all people get them, they are a gift, or just deferred salary.
A large body of research has shown this to be true.
Personally when in large corporates I was totally against bonuses after seeing how they were misused. I believe one of four possibilities should occur:
1. Excellent performance. Permanent salary increase (above inflation and general salary increase).
2. Average performance. You still have a job. Congratulations. (Salary increases with inflation and general salary increase).
3. Below average performance. Permanent salary decrease (relative to inflation and general salary increase). Dollars still might go up but less than inflation and general salary increase.
4. Crap performance. We give you the opportunity to try new experiences outside this company.
Specific bonuses deleted.
I also believe in Xmas gifts for employees (all employees at xmas time). Not called a bonus. If you are good enough to be on the team you get it. If anyone thinks otherwise about you, why have they not raised the question of why you are still on the team?