Holiday Bonus

Years ago, the titans of commerce established the tradition of the Holiday Bonus. Over time it took many forms. An envelope of cash, a Christmas turkey, a bonus cheque, bottles of wine, or a gift basket. Unfortunately the practice wasn’t always conducted altruistically, as often it was used to prevent staff defections or as a way to circumvent paying earned overtime. But it’s origins were pure and indeed many companies well understood the benefits of rewarding employees for a year’s solid performance.

When I was a young titan of newspaper delivery, the Christmas bonus was eagerly awaited. As an eleven year old paperboy I made about five or six dollars, a week, delivering to forty households. But come the week before Christmas, it was my chance to rack up some riches. Most of my client households slipped me a card which I couldn’t wait to open, though I rarely read them. The notes I was looking for were of the currency type. Namely the one and two dollar bills that flowed out of them. Sometimes the odd fiver showed up, to which I said a silent prayer of thanks. By the time I was done with my Holiday Haul, I easily had scored over a month’s extra pay. For me the Christmas Bonus was alive and well.

I still relish the gifts I get from clients.

Not that they are sending me cash bonuses!

No, my clients give me something much more valuable than money. They give me feedback, candour, collaboration, and opportunity. Those are things that money can’t buy. This of course is in addition to the financial renumeration they provide all year. Which allows me to employ a team of highly deserving, capable, and inspiring colleagues. This funding allows them to pursue their professional dreams and aspirations, while establishing their own personal ability to support the families they will someday create. Or in many cases have already started.

This week we are celebrating with our clients and industry friends. Together we will raise a glass to celebrate the season, to remember a year’s worth of business triumphs and challenges, and to give thanks for the support of one another. If you don’t (didn’t) make it to our Holiday Blast, I want to still thank you personally for all you mean to us.

I often tell my young interns that without clients, we wouldn’t have a business. In case I haven’t told you lately, that’s why I’m writing to you today.

Gracious, humble thanks to all our clients and patrons.

Happy Holidays.