Could we structure a variable bonus plan?
'Strutturare' = stru-tu-RA-reh. Five syllables; stress the fourth. 'Variabile' = va-RYA-bi-leh.
Use this when base salary is fixed but you want to link additional pay to your performance. It works well in commercial roles, management and any function where output is measurable.
'Retribuzione variabile' (variable pay) is the broader Italian category including bonuses, MBOs (Management by Objectives) and commission. Structuring this formally protects your right to the bonus if targets are met.
Possiamo includere un MBO nel contratto?
Can we include an MBO in the contract?
'MBO' (Management by Objectives) is used in Italian corporate language as is
Qual è la percentuale di variabile prevista per questo ruolo?
What is the variable pay percentage expected for this role?
Asks for the variable pay proportion; common in commercial roles
I bonus vengono pagati annualmente o trimestralmente?
Are bonuses paid annually or quarterly?
Practical timing question; affects cash flow and motivation
Variable pay ('retribuzione variabile') is growing in Italy but still less common than in Anglo-Saxon markets. Italian employees traditionally prefer fixed-pay certainty. When negotiating MBOs or bonuses, always insist on having the targets, percentages and payment dates written into the contract.