Ask the Expert: How can I find out what bonus I'll get?

Why are some people so afraid of talking about pay to their bosses? What is stopping you going to your line manger and asking exactly what you have asked us? You must realise that people who are afraid of talking about pay, usually end up getting paid less than more assertive colleagues - because companies rarely offer spontaneous pay rises.

Pick a quiet moment and say to your boss: 'I don't know what the pay structure is like in this company, can you please explain to me how it works and how bonuses are calculated?' If he or she tries to fob you off, ask when would be a convenient time to talk about it, because you have a number of questions you'd like to ask.

You are unlikely to be told in advance what you bonus is going to be for the simple reason that your boss almost certainly won't know yet. But you can prepare a list of questions about the system like, what range you can expect your bonus to be in, what it will depend on and what you would have to do to get a bonus at the top end of the range.

It's probably best to leave your property buying intentions out of it. Your desire to know what's what stands on its own merits. What's more, if your boss has any sense at all he or she will tell you that you must not count your chickens . You'd be very unwise to borrow, based on bonus expectations. Many an over-optimistic bank employee has become horribly unstuck doing just that.

Next week's question I am worried that I may be being blacklisted for raising a complaint of unfair dismissal and discrimination with my previous employer. Do recruitment agencies receive 'black lists' of such employees? How do you know if you are being blacklisted, as it seems a recruitment consultant would be unlikely to admit this to a prospective candidate for a job. Do recruiters call previous employers without telling the candidate?

What would you advise? Send your answer to: expertadmin@efinancialcareers.com.

Look out for the Experts' answer to this dilemma and readers' comments on Ask the Expert next week!

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