6+ 賞与歴史 Article

会社員とフリーランスで社会保障はどう違う？独立する前に知っておきたい、年金や保険の格差対策 MONEY PLUS from media.moneyforward.com

The Meaning of 賞与

In Japan, 賞与 (shoyo) refers to a special bonus given to employees by their employer. This bonus is usually given at the end of the year, and it is meant to be an expression of appreciation for the employee's hard work during the year. The amount of the bonus is usually a percentage of the employee's salary, and it can vary depending on the company's performance and the employee's performance.

The History of 賞与

The practice of giving 賞与 in Japan can be traced back to the Meiji era (1868-1912). At that time, the bonus was given to employees as a way of encouraging them to work harder and to improve their productivity. The bonus was usually given in the form of rice, which was a valuable commodity at the time. During the post-war period, the practice of giving 賞与 became more widespread. This was partly due to the economic boom that Japan experienced during this period, which made it possible for companies to offer more generous bonuses to their employees. At the same time, the government also encouraged companies to give bonuses as a way of boosting the economy.

The Role of 賞与 in Japanese Society

In Japan, 賞与 is more than just a bonus. It is a symbol of the employer's appreciation for the employee's hard work and dedication. It is also a way of fostering loyalty and commitment among employees, who are more likely to remain with a company that they feel values their contributions.

The Types of 賞与

There are several types of 賞与 that are commonly given in Japan. The most common is the 年末賞与 (nengajyo shoyo), which is given at the end of the year. This is usually the largest bonus of the year, and it is based on the employee's performance during the year. Another type of 賞与 is the 中間賞与 (chuukan shoyo), which is given halfway through the year. This bonus is usually smaller than the 年末賞与, and it is meant to encourage employees to continue working hard.

The Impact of 賞与 on the Japanese Economy

The practice of giving 賞与 has had a significant impact on the Japanese economy. It has helped to create a culture of hard work and dedication among Japanese workers, who are known for their strong work ethic. It has also helped to foster loyalty and commitment among employees, which has contributed to the stability of many Japanese companies.

The Future of 賞与

Despite its importance in Japanese society, the practice of giving 賞与 has come under scrutiny in recent years. Some critics argue that the practice is outdated and that it encourages companies to focus on short-term profits rather than long-term growth. However, many Japanese companies continue to offer generous bonuses to their employees, and the practice shows no signs of disappearing anytime soon. As long as 賞与 remains an important symbol of appreciation and loyalty in Japanese society, it is likely to continue to play an important role in the country's economy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the history of 賞与 in Japan is a reflection of the country's strong work ethic and its commitment to fostering loyalty and dedication among its workers. While the practice has come under criticism in recent years, it remains an important part of Japanese society and is likely to continue to play a significant role in the country's economy for many years to come.