Feeling Stuck Without a Raise or Bonus: Should I Consider Changing Jobs?

Dear Seniors, I completed my M.Sc. in Bioinformatics. Currently, I am pursuing an MBA in HR through distance education. I have been working as an Admin & HR Assistant in the UAE for the past 4 years. My company has more than 100 employees. I love my work as well as my coworkers. Last year, four employees were terminated in my department, so I was given more job responsibilities in Admin, HR, Accounts, and Reception. I managed to finish all my targets and am doing my work perfectly. However, I haven't received an increment for the past year, nor have I received any bonus. Please advise whether I should look for another job or not. Thanks, Farzana.

I suggest that you have a talk with your management about your salary increment and bonus. Since you are handling multiple jobs, they may look upon this positively. Otherwise, you may have to consider seeking alternative options. If the company does not prioritize your well-being and career growth, then you must take charge of your own future.

Best wishes,
Suman Kumar

I liked your nickname "puremotherlove," though I think there is a redundancy, as a mother's love is always pure! Hope the above line makes you feel at ease and at peace with yourself.

You have been doing extremely well in your company and like the company and its people. What irks you is: "I didn't get an increment for the past year, and I also didn't get any bonus."

Analyzing the Reasons for No Increment or Bonus

Now, what can be the reason for it? Did you try to analyze it objectively? Perhaps the reason could be anything apart from your performance, such as financial constraints or management constraints in terms of limiting such rewards to a certain number and magnitude.

You are feeling so stressed to consider: "whether I have to look for another job or not." It seems you are taking the matter of 'not getting any increment or bonus' too personally or are being too judgmental of yourself; else there would not have been the thought of "leaving the company."

Evaluating Compensation and Job Satisfaction

Please look at the rewards and compensation offered, in totality, over the years. If you had been working for 4 years in that company and have had no other reasons so far for any grievances, then just the fact that you were not given a bonus/increment should not be the sole criterion for switching jobs. There can be plausible reasons such as the financial condition of the company, what is the proportion of such left-out employees, do such employees largely belong to 'service'/staff functions/supporting departments, etc. - in general, whether some formal/informal policy was at work.

Considering Job Change

It is not advisable to change jobs purely on small financial considerations; otherwise, one would find people switching jobs every other month! However, if you feel, with some amount of conviction, that you have been 'singled-out' for this or you are supposed to take this as a 'message,' then it is just the right time to look for another job in quite earnest.

Otherwise, if you like the company and feel comfortable, you can be patient and optimistic as you await and look forward to a justifiable enhancement in compensation and job content in the near future.

Warm regards.

Dear Farzana, as per your qualifications, you deserve senior-level jobs instead of roles in Admin/HR/Accounts/Reception, etc. (But I know in the Middle East, Wasta/Reference is also important alongside qualifications.) I believe in the UAE, the bonus method is not implemented as they provide service indemnity settlement yearly or every two years (not sure, but heard from many). You can refer to the UAE labor law for more details on whether a bonus is enabled or not.

In my opinion, you should stick with one job, which in the future can lead to opportunities at a senior level or management position, instead of doing multiple jobs. Additionally, read the company policy about the increment procedure, whether they increase salaries yearly or every two years (as you mentioned they have not increased your salary since last year). I agree with AVSJai - use this opportunity to learn new skills that will enhance your value in later years.

Thank you,

Dear Suman,

Thanks for your reply. I have already spoken to my manager about my financial issues. He promised me an increment in April, so I was happy. However, in April, he made increments for some of our employees but not for me, which made me upset. Additionally, I am working for our two sister companies.

I can see assistants with low workloads in some other departments being paid equally to me.

Waiting for your reply.

Thanks.

Dear Raj, Thank you very much for your reply. Thanks for your comments about my nickname. If it's related to a financial problem, why are they providing increments to some of the employees? At the same time, they are saving on compensation for 4 terminated employees. They are saving more. With that compensation, why are they not able to provide at least 1000 AED as an increment? I can understand that they are showing partiality in nationality. All managers are very friendly to me. Many times they used to say, "You are the best." I am a hard worker. I am a very enthusiastic lady eager to learn lots of things. They can utilize me by providing training and promoting me to a higher position. Last year, I gave training to two assistants. Their salary is higher than mine. I am really upset. Waiting for your reply. Thanks. Farzana.

Dear Sayeed, thanks for your reply. What you mentioned in your reply is 100% correct. They will not compare the qualification & job responsibilities. Some employees with a diploma & higher secondary qualification hold senior positions, while some employees with higher qualifications are placed in junior-level positions.

As per our company policy, they didn't mention anything about bonuses in our policies. When they make a profit, they do not provide an equal bonus on a percentage basis to all employees.

They will not promote me to a senior position even if I stay longer in this company. No doubt about that. They didn't even support me in my higher studies.

Thanks.

Thank you for your valuable advice. What you said is correct about the commission and bonus. I worked in sales for 6 months. My job responsibilities included preparing tenders, BOQs, and contacting clients and suppliers. I replaced our purchasing officer for 4 months. My job responsibilities included preparing procurements, ordering supplies, coordinating with projects, managing stock inventory, and more.

They didn't consider me for a permanent role. Whenever they need work done, they use me. Following your advice, I would like to focus on one field to advance in my career. I will search for another job with more responsibilities in a single field.

Thank you very much.

Regards,
Saeed.

Absolutely right. As I said earlier, you deserve a senior-level job, so start uploading your CV and look in the local newspaper for the required job. (I am not from UAE, but I know there are many good companies in the Jabel Ali zone looking for purchasing professionals; try for that.)

Last but not least - Is your visa transferable? Can you get a release easily from your present employer? If so, then start searching. And please consider Mr. Raj Kumar Hansdah's response before taking further steps. Thanks.

Dear Farzana,

You have enough experience, knowledge, and a degree. Why don't you upload your CV on job sites and start searching for a new job? I am sure you will land a good managerial position.

Remember, your career is in your hands, not in the hands of others, so utilize your knowledge, experience, and degree. Don't wait for opportunities; create your own. Be confident in yourself; the world is vast, and there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you.

Regards.

Dear Farzana, Thanks for your responses, especially to my post and the additional information. The situation is becoming clearer. At this point in time, it might have appeared as if your feelings are a reaction to the critical incident of being denied an increment and bonus. However, when one goes through the various inputs, especially "They can utilize me by providing training & promoting me to a higher position. Last year, I gave training to two assistants. Their salary is higher than mine."; it is clear that due consideration has not been given to your contributions. Now, there can be several reasons for it, valid or invalid, some of which, although very commonplace and meant to be an excuse, may not even be worth discussing. Under the circumstances, considering all the aspects mentioned by you, in my opinion, it is advisable to look for better opportunities. Do consider companies where you can use your cross-functional experience, especially companies in the pharma, health, or insurance sector where your Bio-informatics background can also give you an edge. Feel free to revert back in case you need further clarification or assistance. Warm regards.

I can transfer my visa to another company because I have already completed 4 years. I am going to upload my CV to various organizations where they can utilize my knowledge and experience. I will discuss with Mr. Raj before proceeding.

Thanks for your time and consideration.

Thank you for your response. You are correct. I will not waste my time in this company. I am going to apply to various organizations. Have a nice day.

Regards,

Dear Raj, I don't want to tell you this, but I must explain so that you can get a clear idea. My supervisor is not very educated. I consistently finish my targets early, yet he is the one enjoying all the benefits without supporting my name within the organization. Good luck to him.

I have come to understand that he will not allow me to advance to a senior position until he leaves the office. What you mentioned is correct; it is futile to waste time on someone like this. I aim to prove myself in another organization.

I am planning to upload my CV to various organizations. Thank you for your time and consideration. I will update you with any good news at the earliest.

Thanks.

Dear Seniors, I completed an M.Sc. in Bioinformatics. Currently, I am pursuing an MBA in HR through distance education. I have been working as an Admin & HR Assistant in the UAE for the past four years. My company has more than 100 employees. I enjoy my work and get along well with my coworkers. Last year, four employees in my department were terminated, resulting in additional job responsibilities in Admin/HR/Accounts/Reception being assigned to me. Despite this, I successfully managed to meet all my targets. However, I have not received a salary increment or any bonus in the past year. I seek your advice on whether I should start looking for another job. Thanks, Farzana

Farzana, it is indeed disheartening that you have not received recognition from your boss despite your exceptional performance exceeding expectations. I empathize with your current situation and feelings. I am puzzled as to why they burdened you with additional job responsibilities in Admin/HR/Accounts/Reception, given your background in M.Sc. Bioinformatics and four years of experience in P&A. The departure of two employees should not have led to an overload on your already full plate; it was not a wise decision on their part.

Returning to the main issue, a few key points stand out: you work in a relatively small organization with around 100 employees, you possess over four years of experience, and you are actively pursuing an MBA in HR. Given your experience and skills, you should be able to secure another promising job opportunity soon. However, I recommend initiating a conversation with your boss or department head first. While there is no guarantee of a positive outcome, it is important to express how you are currently feeling. I refrain from providing further advice at this stage as I urge you to communicate with them first and share their responses with me. If you remain dissatisfied, changing jobs might be the best course of action at this point. Approach the conversation with your boss calmly, confidently, and professionally. Best of luck.

Dear Farzana, your experience in several verticals will surely help you secure a better job. Without any second thought, select one specific vertical of your choice and look for opportunities in that area. You should not remain in a place where people do not appreciate your hard work. At the same time, be careful in selecting the organizations to which you apply.

However, as you mentioned you are pursuing your M.B.A., you cannot be sure if you can manage the same in case you shift to another new organization. So, consider this: you can either wait until you complete your M.B.A. and then look for a better opportunity, or if you feel you can manage the studies as well, you can make a decision and start applying.

In any case, I am sure and wish you get the best of what you deserve. All the best.

Dear Farzana, Thank you for your response. I could read between the lines and fathom many things left unsaid. I am certain that many other things must have come to the fore, including the fact that you have a two-year-old child to take care of as well. Moreover, having a 'toxic' boss or reporting authority complicates the matter. Considering all these, you should expedite your movement. Wish you all the best.

Raj Kumar

Dear Farzana, I had a glance at your case, and it is really unfair. Your company is lacking proper compensation management. You mentioned that you are doing your MBA. When are you going to complete it? Maybe very soon. In this present scenario, if you are finding time for your studies, it is a kind of bonus for you. If you change your job now, in a new setup, you may not find time for studies. So, utilize this opportunity. Focus on your studies, and in the meantime, keep talking to your management, avoid additional responsibilities, and focus on your studies. Of course, keep trying for a better job. Either of these will happen soon: (i) you will get an increment, (ii) get a better job, or (iii) complete your studies. Once you complete your MBA, hopefully, you will be in a better position to negotiate/demand your pending increments and position.

Regards, Elearner.

[QUOTE=anilkr.arora;1550099]

Hmm, Farzana, it is indeed a sad thing that you are not getting appreciation from your boss, even though you have performed well, exceeding the expectations of your boss and co-workers. I understand your situation and what you are feeling these days. But one thing I didn't understand is why they gave you more job responsibilities in Admin/HR/Accounts/Reception. You have an MSc in Bio-Informatics, 4 years of experience in P&A, and involvement in Accounts and Reception work. Why?

The fact that two people left does not mean they will not hire new people to handle these tasks. It may have been their decision, but not a good one, in my opinion.

Coming back to the point, three things stand out: you work in an organization that is not too big (only 100 employees), you have over 4 years of experience, and you are pursuing an MBA-HR. You are experienced and skilled, and you can find another good job soon. I suggest you speak to your boss/department head first. While we can't guarantee a positive outcome, it's important to express how you are feeling.

I won't say more on this because I want you to talk to them first and let me know their response. However, if you still do not want to, you can consider changing your job. Believe me, this is the best time for you to make that decision.

Be polite, composed, and confident when speaking to your boss.

Best of luck!

Dear Anil, Thanks for your reply. At the mid of 2010, the company appointed a new Administration & HR Director. He is well-experienced and capable of handling all the issues in our company. We have a total of three sister companies. Our new manager restructured our organization by removing unnecessary employees. He observed that some employees had little work for their pay.

He decided to terminate the unnecessary employees and assigned me more responsibilities. I am truly confused as to why he did not increase my compensation.

This is my final attempt; I am going to speak to my supervisor in half an hour and update you on the status.

Thanks.

Dear Farzana, are you not able to decipher anything from the whole circumstances? Can I tell you something? With all the facts you have put across, it gives me a pulse that the "management does not want you there." There may be many reasons, and we need not discuss them in this forum.

You mentioned that the new person who recruited fired some of the people and gave you more responsibilities but did not compensate you as you should have been, right? They also hired someone and placed them under you for training, paying them more than what you are currently being paid, right? You seem to be a little senior in the company, and they are not able to tell you to "push off" directly. It is absolutely clear that by doing so, you will be overburdened, get dejected, and will eventually resign and leave on your own.

Do not waste further time; push off as quickly as possible.

Regards,
Balaji

Increments in private organizations depend mostly on how you present your annual performance through your performance appraisal report. Whether or not you are considering another job, it is crucial that your performance is properly reflected in every organization. Therefore, it is essential to master the art of writing your performance appraisal. Additionally, if you are managing an increased workload due to the removal of four members from your unit, it should be highlighted impressively to showcase your talents to the management.

Moreover, I am not sure how prevalent it is, especially in your organization, but I believe gender discrimination exists in Middle East/Gulf countries. Only you can confirm its presence or absence in your organization.

Professional Background and Current Situation

I have completed an M.Sc. in Bioinformatics and am currently pursuing an MBA in HR through distance education. Working as an Admin & HR Assistant in the UAE for the past four years in a company with over 100 employees, I have developed a strong bond with my work and colleagues. Following the termination of four employees in my department last year, I was entrusted with additional responsibilities in Administration, HR, Accounts, and Reception. Despite the increased workload, I have managed to meet all my targets efficiently. However, I have not received an increment or bonus in the past year.

I seek your advice on whether I should consider looking for another job.

Thank you,

Farzana.

Real Fact:

In some reputed companies, there are no increments or bonuses. They simply try to expand their business by investing money. Additionally, they do not even consider the efforts of the employees involved. In many companies, employees with the same job profile earn more even though they have a lighter workload.

Hope if there were a law to equalize the salaries, don't you think...

Dear Seniors, thank you for your valuable support. I would like to update you on my employment status. My management has clearly informed me that there will be no increment for this year. I have planned to stay in this company until I secure a new job, as I am currently receiving calls for interviews. I will keep you updated on my status once I secure a new job.

Once again, thank you for your time and consideration. Have a nice day.

Best Regards,
Farzana ASLAM.

Hi Farzana,

Got your reply, and as you said, you have spoken to them, and they mentioned that you can't get the increment at this time. The thing is that they are wrong in this regard and have never appreciated your work and efforts. They can't increase your salary at this time. I agree with your decision to quit, and I'm with you in this. Stay with them until you get other good options. Wishing you the very best of luck, and I'm sure that you'll get a good job soon because you are very sincere, experienced, and hardworking, right? Best of luck and keep us updated about you!!!

Regards