"You may be in the dark on whether a bonus is in the cards - and if it is, how much the bonus will be - because it's discretionary and there are so many variables," she explains. "They can also cause the jitters because the amount can represent a very tangible indicator of your job performance."
Adding to this year-end mystery is the fact that most employers don't have a stated policy on bonuses because managers prefer maximum flexibility, she says. "Some firms offer alternatives to holiday bonuses, such as spot bonuses throughout the year, special perks, or small gifts. The surprise element can be good or bad, depending on your expectations."
Here are nine signs you're about to get a holiday bonus: