I want to ask my employer why we didn’t get Xmas vouchers

My expenditure, like many others, goes up during the festive season. It is the only time I get to give my family a treat, however simple. I earn “peanuts” and usually look forward to the company’s festive shopping vouchers to supplement my shoe-string budget. The vouchers are usually smaller for lower grade employees but better than nothing. However, last year, we did not get any vouchers. I would like to ask our management why but do not want to sound entitled. Kate

Dear Kate,
It is unfortunate that you employer was not able to spread the usual Christmas cheer during the 2019 festive season by giving out the shopping vouchers! It is also true that these vouchers for many people actually determine whether they would have a family treat or not during the festive season, but you know what, that also passed!
We know that employers apart from paying salaries and wages throughout the year, sometimes also give bonuses or vouchers in your case, to their employees, if the resource envelope permits.

Apparently this time round, that wasn’t possible. Here is the lesson for 2020!

Never rely on your employer to be the reason to make or break your family’s expectations and traditions! The employer’s vouchers or bonuses should be an icing, not the main source of funding for your family’s festive season or any other expenditures!

You need to create early enough, and stick to a saving plan for the next 12 months, having decided on the kind of treat you would want for your family at the end of the year.

Begin by putting aside a portion of your monthly earnings to finance your festive season expenditures. You will not even feel the pinch if you save manageable amounts.

However, by the end of the year, you will be amazed at the amount of disposable money available for you to spend as you wish! Happy 2020!

Moses Ssesanga, Head Human Resource, NMG - Uganda