The following steps should be taken to prepare for the meeting:
- Manage your emotions by depersonalizing the situation. Realize, it's about business, and speaking with emotional charge will not produce the results you want.
- Make a list of your accomplishments and how you met the criteria for the bonus you expected. Highlight how you contributed to the profitability, growth, services, etc of the company.
- Rehearse the meeting in your head and decide on an opening statement such as: "The reason I wanted to meet with you is because I was disappointed in the amount of my bonus and want to discuss it with you.
- Prepare some clarifying questions such as: What were the criteria for the decision? I thought I met my goals, where did I fall short? What did I need to do to get more of what I expected? Are there skills or new responsibilities I need to take on?
- Take the opportunity to promote yourself. If you feel you have met the pre-determined goals or there was a misperception, be prepared to respond with your accomplishments to each point that you anticipate.
It is always a good idea to take the opportunity to update your resume and get in touch with your network. Being prepared to make changes is empowering no matter what course of action you decide to take.