11 signs you're about to get a holiday bonus

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Everyone wants to have their hard work recognized with a holiday bonus.
But thanks to vague company policies, it's not always clear whether or not you'll earn extra cash.
Still, indications like a positive relationship with your boss and a company-wide hiring spree are good signs.

Year-end bonuses can make for a nice stocking stuffer around the holidays.

But they can also be a source of major stress. Many companies don't have a concrete policy regarding bonuses, so you never really know exactly what you're going to get.

This is especially troubling considering the fact that sources of "variable pay" like bonuses are increasingly eclipsing raises, according to Time.

Here are 11 signs you've got nothing to worry about when it comes to your holiday bonus:

DON'T MISS: A 30-step plan to getting the raise you deserve

DON'T FORGET: The most obvious conversation topic at your office holiday party should be avoided at all costs

Company sales are up

If your company is experiencing solid growth, that can boost the likelihood of a bonus check, said Lynn Taylor, a national workplace expert and the author of "Tame Your Terrible Office Tyrant: How to Manage Childish Boss Behavior and Thrive in Your Job." If, on the other hand, sales have been down for a while, you probably won't see that extra cash this year.

Your boss seems friendlier than normal

"Is your boss's demeanor more like Santa than Scrooge?" Taylor asked. "If your boss is more available, in a better mood, friendlier, and more talkative than usual, your prospects are more merry and bright."

Your company is hiring like crazy

If your employer is on a roll and in the hiring mode, that can mean that times are good, and you're more likely to get a bonus — assuming you've been performing well.

"Sometimes, however, a small reduction in headcount can mean that more money is freed up for bonuses," Taylor said. "Consider all the other factors before making your educated guess."

If, however, there have been significant layoffs, that's not a good sign.

See the rest of the story at Business Insider