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Our GM has just installed a bonus program for the techs and writers. My bonus is directly affected by what the techs get. The only way for me to get a decent amount is if ALL of the techs make their bonus. It's a great program, dont get me wrong, but its also time for a yearly pay increase and I have been informed by the GM that the bonus program voids out any pay raises. Is this fair? A bonus program should be over and above a regular yearly pay increase. So basically by accepting the bonus program, us writers will never get a pay raise. And how long to you think it will take for the bonus to fall by the wayside?
Thanks for listening guys!!

So much of pay is dependent on local market conditions and whether it is feasible to earn a living wage in the good times and the bad. I will say in our current pay plan (on-going) surveys that it isn't unusual this year for many dealerships to be foregoing the annual cost of living types of increases.

I learned a very early lesson working in dealerships - a bonus is great, but as soon as you rely on them as part of your regular income you're setting yourself up for financial failure - regardless how easy or tough the targets seem.

I guess the thought - in answer to your question - a bonus might be considered part of your compensation, but I wouldn't think of one that way. If a bonus is part of your compensation then it is a commission, not a bonus, and it should reflect obtainable targets.

But if the chance of a bonus is your only chance of a raise this year, consider yourself in the lucky category that many aren't even being offered that.

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** Rob, Editor Dealersedge/WD&S **
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robc@dealersedge.com

Thanks for the reply robc. I'm a long time reader, first time post-er. I guess thats where I differ from most with the "Im lucky to have a job" attitude. I have NEVER been a believer in that. I have the "they are lucky to have me here" attitude. I have never had any problem at all finding employment. I think more people should have that view and not let employers take advantage of them. If you give 110% every day and believe in yourself, you will find success.

"they are lucky to have me here" attitude. I have never had any problem at all finding employment. I think more people should have that view and not let employers take advantage of them. If you give 110% every day and believe in yourself, you will find success."

very well said

paul