All of D.C. to Get a Raise ... a Teeny, Tiny Raise

Black Friday, the be-all, end-all of go-crazy shopping days (well, not for those celebrating "Buy Nothing Day"), is less than two turkey-filled days away. But in our blind rush to leave a tithe at the alter of mass consumerism, we often lose our thrifty ways. Not to worry - for those of us with office jobs, that raise is right around the corner, coming soon to help ease those credit card bills come January. Right?

There's good slightly positive news and outright bad news, fellow worker bees.

The not-quite-spectacular news? Well, you'll be happy to know that of all major U.S. metropolitan areas, our fine District is projected to receive the biggest average percentage in 2008 salary increases, according to a study from WorldatWork. But before heading out to blow that added dough on HDTVs and toys, do realize, as this USA Today story explains, that increase is only projected at 4.1%. And it's not much higher than other areas, which have a range of 3.8 to 4%. It can't be all bad, though, right? Someone's got to be making some extra cashola, you ask?

While employers are holding the line on raises, they're being more generous when it comes to bonuses for high performers. In the 1990s, employers budgeted only about 5% of their payroll for bonuses. For 2008, companies anticipate devoting nearly 12% of payroll to bonuses — using pay as a way to retain and reward valued employees.

But since Americans waste an average of 29% of their work day, most of us will probably never see a "high performance bonus." Just something to keep in mind before unleashing a torrent of purchases upon your bank account. And hey, look on the bright side. You could have worked for this guy.

Photo by jenn_jenn.