This is the point of course,and so far the fellow that started the thread has come up blank with his requests for guidance from his professional. Mmm...

I'll say this, just from my experience in business. Looked at the other way, as a general principle of business, a pro who counts on a "bonus" for his livelihood ought to think twice.

"Straight commission" is always sounder compensation.

True bonuses {tips} are 100% subjective and not guaranteed and in fact there shoud be no hard feelings if they are not forthcoming. Daryl, tell your business compatriots to set their pay on straight commission and hard feelings will be a thing of the past!