The workforce is seeing changes like never before. With the pandemic, many employees have had a long break from working in the office and are now facing a return. Some perks that increase employee satisfaction have remained the same in 2022, while others have increased in importance.
Employee perks differ from benefits, like health insurance. Some examples include paid time off (PTO), in-office amenities, discount programs, and employee recognition.
Why Are Perks Important?
Providing perks shows employees you value their work. When employees feel appreciated, they work harder, are more focused, and provide more value for the company. In a study by Glassdoor, 81% of respondents said they are more likely to work hard if they feel appreciated.
So, what are some of the most popular perks in 2022?
Flexible Work Environment
Many workplaces can’t offer the opportunity to work from home full-time. However, a flexible work environment has become much more important to employees as they spent more time at home and less in the office during the pandemic. If it is possible, offering just one day a week of at home work can make a difference in employee satisfaction.
If your company requires employees to work from the office, having generous PTO, vacation, and sick-leave policies are always perks that are appreciated. Knowing there is time-off to look forward to can prevent worker burnout. This boosts the bottom line for your business, making the cost trade off worth it most times.
Wellness Opportunities
Mental, physical, and financial health are all important aspects of a person’s ability to give their best performance at work. If these areas are lacking, it is impossible to be focused at work and provide the results employers want to see.
Many companies are expanding their wellness programs. In 2020, Gartner surveyed 52 human resources professionals and found that 94% invested in well-being programs, including programs for mental and physical health and financial well-being. Depending on the size of your company, these perks don’t have to be major investments. Some ideas include:
- Financial literacy seminars
- Discounts on gym memberships
- Nutritional counseling
- In-office meditation rooms or sessions
- Free access to mobile apps focused on wellness
Make the Office Enticing
In-office perks are an easy way to make coming to work more enjoyable for employees. When someone looks forward to going to the office, their work quality will be better than someone who dreads coming in each day.
- Stipend to cover commute costs
- Free coffee and beverages
- Catered meals once a week (or even once a month)
- Team building activities
- Games in the break areas
If you are unsure what perks your employees would appreciate, ask them! Conducting a survey can give great insight into what your employees would value and increase their happiness in the workplace and, thus, their productivity.
Sources:
Glassdoor. Employers To Retain Half Of Their Employees Longer If Bosses Showed More Appreciation; Glassdoor Survey. Accessed July 14, 2022.
Harvard Business Review. 11 Trends that Will Shape Work in 2022 and Beyond. Accessed July 15, 2022.