⚡ Industry X-Ray

How Work Works

How are annual raises decided?

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The Unwritten Rule: Why are annual raises often small?

They're set from a fixed merit budget split across everyone. Leaders set a merit pool; managers divide it, so a great year still yields a modest raise. Source: Wikipedia – Merit pay

Who Decides: Who splits the pool?

Managers, within guidelines from compensation. Managers allocate within limits, often with guidance by rating. Source: Wikipedia – Merit pay

How to Play It: When should you ask?

Before budgets are set, not at the review. By review time the money is allocated. Ask when the pool is being planned. Source: Wikipedia – Merit pay

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