A worker was worried that a £2,000 work bonus would lead to a friend feeling 'resentful'. The payment was due to them referring a pal for a job with a 'decent pay bump'. They were now concerned about how their friend would feel about their windfall and asked fellow Mumsnet users if they would share it.
The Dilemma Unfolds
The Mumsnet user wrote: 'A few months ago, a colleague in another team mentioned that they were recruiting for a role. I said I might know someone suitable. I spoke to a friend and she was really keen so I forwarded her CV. Fast-forward and she got the job with a decent pay bump over her previous salary. Really pleased for her! It turns out I am going to get a referral bonus of £2,000. I wasn’t aware of this when I referred her because I’ve only been there a short time myself. So, my question is - if you were my friend, how would you feel about my windfall? To be honest, I am planning to keep it, but thinking maybe I’ll take her out for a little celebration, my treat? Would love to hear perspectives.'
Community Responses
One reply read: 'I wouldn’t share it, treat her if you want to celebrate her new job but there’s no need to share it.' A second said: 'I would mention to her just in case it comes out and it’s unnecessarily awkward.' A third chipped in: 'The usual thing is to take them out for lunch, no need to share the bonus.' A fourth reasoned: 'Yes, take her out if you want and pay as a nice treat/congrats thing. She has already benefitted by your referral by getting the job and pay increase and in time, if she refers someone, maybe she can get the referral fee too. If I was asked in the future then I'd say that yes, I did get a referral fee but as you said, you apparently had no idea there even was one and it wasn't your motivation for referral.' A fifth wrote: 'I was in this position once and I certainly didn't share it!'
Poster's Update
The original poster later added that she 'appreciated the feedback' and said: 'I think I’m worried that she’ll feel resentful that I’m getting this bonus because of her and then keeping it all to myself.'
