With Christmas less than a week away, we tackle one of the most uncomfortable conversations happening in blue collar businesses right now: the holiday bonus.

What happens when bonuses have become an expectation rather than a reward?

We talk through why delaying bad news creates disengagement, how to communicate with empathy when bonuses aren't happening, and the critical mistake of buying yourself a new Denali while telling employees there's no money for bonuses.

Plus, we dive into the difference between base pay increases and true variable compensation, why you should never run bonuses through regular payroll, and how to set up incentive plans that actually motivate your team. Fair warning:

We don't agree on everything in this one, but that's what makes it interesting.

Highlights:

Delaying the bonus conversation creates disengagement and actively encourages your best people to start job hunting during the holidays.

The Denali problem where buying yourself a new truck to avoid taxes while canceling bonuses sends exactly the wrong message to your team.

Why running bonuses through regular payroll can cost you hundreds in unexpected overtime calculations.

The great debate on base pay increases versus variable compensation and which approach actually works for small to mid-sized organizations.

Celebrate the wins because forgetting what happened in January through November means you're missing opportunities to build morale year-round.

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Steve Doyle:

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Brad Herda:

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