Real-life MMD: I got £400 for finding someone a job, should I give them half?

jazimews

A friend of mine referred me for a job (which I got) and at the time when she said she would refer me she said that she would split the money with me. However, after I got the job she never mentioned the money again and I just let it go as she has kids and I don't. Even though I really needed the money, (as I earn a lot less than her and struggle financially - I know she struggles financially too) there was no way that I was going to risk losing a friendship over it.

rallp54

No way! If the friend didn't know about the job until you recommended them, then they are indebted to you for the big increase in their pay, and if anything, THEY should be giving YOU a bonus in addition to the £400. If they knew about and were going to apply for the job anyway, then your recommendation was essentially unnecessary, and you could split it with them.

Jo09

It's interesting to see the different responses however

1) Some feel you are obligated by some unwritten friendship code, however unless you generally share everything with your friend or have agreed to there is no obligation.

2) Some have suggested that you should share because it will damage your reputation. I suggest that only those that have strong feelings that you must share may think bad of you but most will know you so won't.

3) Personally I think that either your friend is joking or your friend is being greedy. The pay raise should be more than sufficient.

Whilst it's entirely up to you whether to share the bonus, it's clear that the organisation thought it should go to you and tbh I can't see a compelling reason to change that!

XxXfashionqueenXxX

Surely a job is enough in this tough, economic climate. She should be grateful she has something- whilst others have no job!

joansgirl

You keep it, you earned it!

milvusvestal

This is a bit of a no-brainer, but clearly someone has given your friend a false impression how commissions work.

She has done nothing to earn a share of the money, and isn't entitled to a penny of it, anyway. She's already financially better off with her new salary. Next time you see her, ask if she wants the shirt off your back too.

addyann

she got a new job and a pay rise thanks to your recommendation. Suggest she splits the pay rise with you.

Ebenezer_Screwj

Your friend has a colossal cheek. Because of you she has a job plus an extra £300 a month and now she wants half of your commission for getting her there ? Tell her to go and take a running jump.

susan47

I'm not a mean person, but this is not intended to be shared with the person who got the job and I'm amazed anyone would think that - getting the job was their reward. When my son jumped ship and moved to another law firm in London, the person who recommended him there got £7k. My son didn't get a penny of it and didn't expect to!

XRAT

She's getting £300 a month extra and you're getting a one off £400?

Of course you should BOTH split your new wealth! (Assuming she's likely to keep the job for more than a couple of months.)