Christmas Bonuses?

Question

I have recently started a small non-profit agency. Obviously, money is very tight, but I would like to give some Christmas bonus to the staff. How much do you traditionally give?

Answer 1

I work for one of the largest companies in the world and we do not get a xmas bonus. I applaud you for thinking of your employees and wanting to give them a little something special for all of their efforts over the year. You have to remember that this is a BONUS that you are giving them so any amount at all would be appreciated. You do what you see fit and I am sure that they will just be elated that you remembered them.

Answer 2

Really it depends on what's in the budget and what you consider a meaningful bonus. I've worked for all sorts of companies, big and small, and honestly have not worked anywhere in the last 10 years that still does a Christmas bonus; part of it is the "politically correct" observance of Christmas, which isn't a holiday for everyone, and part of it is, that's just a benefit that lots of employers don't extend any more. Some employers throw a lavish "winter party" for all the staff in lieu of a bonus too.

I'd recommend being as fair as possible with whatever money you want to distribute; employees always discuss bonuses (even though that is really unprofessional, the topic always comes up) and someone who feels slighted because they got a smaller bonus than someone else can undo all the goodwill a bonus created to begin with.

Also look at the budget you have to work with-- if you can only afford to give each person a small sum (say $100) it might be more beneficial to give gifts instead. Many retailers will give discounts for bulk purchases of gift cards or items so on the same $100 you might be able to give everyone a low-end iPod and a gift certificate. Being creative on a limited budget can sometimes yeild a memorable symbol of your appreciation-- a nice party with a few high-end door prizes might make a better memory than a small check.

For what it's worth, when I worked for companies that did give bonuses, the traditional amount was one week's salary.

Answer 3

I work with a small non-profit where money is tight (isn't it in all small non-profits? ;-{ ) and we give $300-$400 to full timers (just have 2) and around $150 to our one part-timer (she's been there well over 10 years). Their pay is very low for what they do, so this is a way of saying "thanks" once a year. Last year we had a full timer who had just started in October, and we gave her a $25 gift card.

If you just don't have the money, something like $25 or maybe $50 if you can come up with it would probably be appreciated. Staff usually knows that money is tight.

Answer 4

Hey atleast you are being nice and giving bonuses! Where I work *its a well known company* NEVER EVER EVER GIVES bonuses! I work at a nursing home where 60 ppl pay 9,000+ a month to live there...and we get paid crap and no bonus..but usually my hubbys bonus is between 500 and 1000 depends on a few things..