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Bonus Tracker

Structuring performance incentives professionally.

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Defining Performance Incentives

In the Philippines, 13th-Month Pay is a legal right (PD 851). In the US/UK/AU, it does not exist. When you don't get it, you feel cheated. When you demand it, the client feels extorted.

The Fix: "Performance Bonus"

Don't ask for a handout. Ask for a reward. Keep a "Win Journal" throughout the year (e.g., "Jan 10: Saved client 5 hours"). Use these wins to justify your bonus.

The Holiday Bonus Script

Use this in November/December. Cite specific wins.

"Hi [Client], as we approach the holidays, I wanted to ask if we could discuss a year-end performance bonus? In the Philippines, we have a custom called '13th Month' which covers holiday expenses. While I know it's not required for contractors, I'd value it as a reflection of the wins we achieved this year, specifically [Win #1] and [Win #2]."
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The Win Journal Strategy

You forget 90% of the value you deliver. By December, you can't remember what you did in March. The fix is a Win Journal.

How to Log a Win

Every Friday, write down ONE thing you achieved. Use the format: Action + Result.

  • "Optimized images on homepage → Improved load speed by 0.5s"
  • "Found a cheaper software alternative → Saved $40/month"
  • "Create a template for inquiries → Reduced reply time by 50%"
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The Ask

In December, don't ask for "Holiday Pay". Ask for a performance review based on your Win Journal.

The Evidence-Based Bonus Request

Send this in early December. It bridges the '13th month' gap gracefully.

"Hi [Name], happy holidays! Reflecting on this year, I'm really proud of what we built, especially [Win #1] and [Win #2]. \n\nIn the Philippines, we have a tradition called '13th Month' that helps with holiday expenses. While I know that doesn't apply to contractors, I'd value a performance bonus as a reflection of the results we achieved together this year. Looking forward to doing even more in 2026!"

Build the documentation that supports professional performance requests.

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