Bonuses Are Backfiring

Performance-based bonuses are intended to motivate employees, but poorly designed incentive plans can create competition, reduce collaboration, and weaken trust. In this course, HR professionals will examine common problems with performance pay and learn how incentive programs can better reflect an organization’s culture, values, and desired employee behaviors.

Participants will explore a behavior-first approach to incentive design, including how to balance individual results, collaboration, and team impact. The course also covers transparent bonus formulas, equity checks, manager guidelines, employee communication, and practical steps for reviewing and redesigning existing incentive programs.