Seven Job Perks That Keep Employees Happy
We spend more than half of our waking time at work each day. Being in a suffocating work environment is demotivating and sucks the life out of employees.
Employers should focus on creating a pleasant workplace that makes employees want to be there and do their jobs. This workplace should satisfy the physical, mental, and emotional needs of employees.
Here are some examples of the perks that employees will value:
Wellness programs
These programs are gaining greater traction in the modern workplace. Employers provide their employees with a small gym space or yoga classes during lunchtime.
Some organizations offer Fitbits to their employees so the employee can keep track of their movement and activity throughout the day. These measures are all aimed at making sure the workforce is physically fit and well. They have been shown to reduce the number of sick days taken by employees.
Proper breakroom facilities
Lots of employees go out during breaks looking to buy food, get out into the fresh air, or do something they like such as playing games. Many employers are starting to see the value of creating spaces in the workplace that allow employees to do these things without leaving the office.
Breakrooms now feature vending machines with healthy snack options, comfortable furniture, and activities for relaxation such as arcade games and pool tables. A garden for spending time outside is also a popular trend.
It is essential to show smokers, vapers, and non-smokers equitable treatment. Breakrooms like these encourage teambuilding and a sense of family at work. Gifting the kits from Vaping360 is a good way of encouraging smokers to quit traditional tobacco cigarettes.
Rewards programs
Staff members like to be recognized. Many are deeply appreciative of a bit of fuss on their birthday. Whether it’s cake in the breakroom or a flower arrangement, acknowledging someone’s birthday shows them they are valued.
Reward teams that met their targets with time off. Some organizations offer incentives such as time off after a certain number of months without taking sick leave.
Opportunities for professional development
Many people regard themselves as lifelong learners. They continuously strive to improve themselves through the acquisition of knowledge and skills.
Financial assistance for the furtherance of studies is, therefore, a highly rated perk. Organizations partner with different institutions to give their employees the chance to study for free or at discounted prices.
Flexible schedules
Flexi-time is something many employees seek. It helps them deal with personal issues such as a doctor’s appointment or meeting with a teacher without having to ask for time off.
Offering employees flexi-time or work-from-home days is a bit of a gamble. However, there is evidence that flexible schedules make employees more productive. They have a better work-life balance and are more focused on their jobs.
Special events
Spicing things up in the office is an excellent way to make employees look forward to going to work. Casual days and dog-friendly days are favorites. It’s easy to go through the calendar and find international days the company can recognize such as International Left-Handers Day.
Making contributions of time, money, or other resources to worthy causes is also a good idea. Employees work as a team to play their part and are left feeling satisfied that they have made a difference.
The ‘usual suspects.’
There are some traditional perks that employees still want. These include reliable, comprehensive healthcare. It’s easy to focus on work knowing that everything will be taken care of should you or a family member become ill.
Employees want to be guaranteed paid vacation time and sick leave, as well as time off to deal with family issues such as a bereavement. Pension benefits are also a powerful perk as they are an investment in the future.