The Top 5 Most Desirable Employee Benefits

Getting paid has traditionally been the main reason for going to work, however, in recent years, employees and job seekers are looking at what benefits an employer can offer on top of the salary. Employee benefits, aka ‘perks’, can help to create a more positive working environment, leading to greater satisfaction.

Satisfied and happy employees are focussed, productive and more committed to their job. So, if you’re looking for a new role, what is important to you?

These are some of the top perks offered by some employers

1. Flexible and remote working

Many employees want (in some cases need) to have more flexibility in their work schedule. Whether it’s the ability to alter working hours or days, or the option to work from home on a regular or as needed basis, flexibility is beneficial to employers and employees. It’s not just working parents looking for flexibility – others may need time to study, or to care for elderly parents, or to exercise or partake in their favourite hobby. Flexibility can underpin work/life balance.

2. Professional Development

Most employees want the opportunity for career development. Employers who offer training, coaching or supported tertiary education are in high demand. Programs may cover personal as well as professional development. There’s an old adage about workplace training. An employer may ask, “what if I train them and they leave?” And the response, “what if you don’t train them and they stay?”

3. Health and Wellness

In life, our health is our most valuable asset. We all want to take better care of ourselves and employees often look for employers who will help them to do that. If an employee's health suffers, it can have flow-on effects to their work and productivity.

Health and wellness benefits can range from providing fruit and healthy snacks for staff through to covering costs for private health insurance, psychological counselling, massages, yoga and exercise classes, gym memberships and more.

4. Leave Benefits

A good leave policy can be attractive to potential employees. Some employers offer additional annual leave after various lengths of service, extra parental leave, cultural leave, birthday day-offs and charity days – enabling employees to volunteer for the charity of their choice and give back to the community.

Many also have schemes in place enabling staff to purchase additional leave, even a 5/1 scheme which means taking a reduced salary for four years and then having the fifth year off work fully paid. Some global companies have introduced “Discretionary Time Off” (DTO) where they no longer set leave entitlements in stone – they can be negotiated between the employee and their manager.

5. On-Site facilities

The perks of onsite childcare facilities, a gym, fitness classes, swimming pool, or even a ping-pong or pool table can factor into the decision-making process when looking for jobs. Fitness is a priority for many people today, especially for those with office jobs so easy access to facilities is definitely welcomed.

Whether you are searching for a job , deciding on an employment offer or are happily employed, it’s good to know what benefits are offered by your current or potential employer. Remember though that perks are just that – perks. You still need to enjoy what you. It’s great to love your job.

Get in touch

Danielle Taggert • February 9, 2020

Find out more by contacting one of our specialisat recruitment consultants across Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Contact us

Share this article

Useful links

Search for jobs today

Got a vacancy?

What's happening in the market?

How do I prepare for my job interview?

Recent Insights

By Claire McNab May 26, 2024
In today's rapidly changing world, the call for environmental responsibility is louder than ever. With climate change looming as a critical global challenge, businesses are increasingly under pressure to play their part in mitigating its effects. One of the most significant ways they can contribute is by taking accountability for their sustainability practices, particularly in reducing carbon emissions.
By Esha Nischol May 19, 2024
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, automation is reshaping industries and transforming the way we work. While automation offers numerous benefits, including increased efficiency and productivity, it also presents challenges and uncertainties for the workforce. Understanding the opportunities and challenges of automation on employment is crucial for individuals and organizations alike as we navigate the future of work.
By Hamish Lamberton May 15, 2024
In recent years, the rise of remote work has revolutionized the way companies approach recruitment. With advancements in technology and a growing acceptance of virtual communication tools, many organizations are now embracing remote recruitment strategies to attract and hire top talent. In this blog post, we'll explore how companies are adapting to virtual hiring processes and the strategies they're employing to succeed in this new era of recruitment. One of the key challenges of remote recruitment is creating meaningful connections with candidates without the benefit of face-to-face interactions. To overcome this obstacle, companies are leveraging video conferencing platforms to conduct virtual interviews and assessments. These tools allow recruiters to assess candidates' communication skills, professionalism, and cultural fit, all while providing a more personal touch than traditional phone interviews. In addition to video interviews, companies are also utilizing virtual recruitment events to engage with candidates and showcase their employer brand. Virtual career fairs, networking sessions, and informational webinars allow companies to connect with a broader pool of candidates regardless of geographic location. By hosting these events online, companies can reach candidates who may not have been able to attend in-person events, thereby expanding their talent pool and increasing diversity. Another important aspect of remote recruitment is the use of technology to streamline the hiring process. Applicant tracking systems (ATS) and recruitment software help companies manage job postings, track candidate applications, and collaborate with hiring teams more efficiently. These tools automate repetitive tasks, such as resume screening and scheduling interviews, freeing up recruiters to focus on building relationships with candidates and making strategic hiring decisions. Furthermore, companies are investing in employer branding initiatives to differentiate themselves in a competitive talent market. Through social media, company blogs, and virtual office tours, organizations can showcase their company culture, values, and employee benefits to prospective candidates. By highlighting their unique selling points and demonstrating their commitment to employee satisfaction, companies can attract top talent and create a positive candidate experience. Finally, remote recruitment requires a strong emphasis on communication and collaboration among hiring teams. With team members working from different locations, it's essential to establish clear channels of communication and set expectations for roles and responsibilities. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions ensure that everyone is aligned and working towards common hiring goals. In conclusion, remote recruitment strategies are becoming increasingly essential for companies looking to stay competitive in today's digital age. By embracing virtual hiring processes, leveraging technology, and prioritizing communication and collaboration, organizations can attract and hire top talent regardless of geographic location. As remote work continues to evolve, companies that adapt and innovate in their recruitment strategies will be best positioned to succeed in the future of work.

NZ's 2024 Employment

and Salary Trends Report

Salary trends, talent attraction and retention strategies

Request your copy
Share by: