Employee benefits can have a major impact on your workforce. A study from Willis Towers Watson showed 78% of employees would stay at a company based on the benefits program. Going beyond the typical paid time off and health insurance to add innovative perks can set your company apart and convince employees to stay longer. Try some of these creative benefit options.
On-Site Workouts
Busy work schedules can make it difficult to get the recommended 150 minutes of exercise weekly. Having on-site exercise options and encouraging employees to stay active help. Try these options:
- On-site gym
- Walking meetings
- Walking, running, or other exercise options with coworkers at lunch
- Fitness challenges using fitness trackers
- Weekly on-site exercise classes
- Gym reimbursement for a nearby gym
You could also gift your employees fitness trackers or smartwatches to encourage activity. Fun watch bands or screen protectors enhance smartwatches to personalize and protect them.
Pet-Friendly Offices
Pet parents hate to spend time away from their furry friends, so letting them bring their dogs to work is a big perk. The pet owners will feel more relaxed, and other employees might enjoy petting their canine officemates; however, make sure no one is allergic to or afraid of dogs. You can also host bring-your-pet-to-work days on an occasional basis.
Counselling Sessions
Employee mental health can impact your retention rate. Mental health was the reason for 50% of people leaving a job according to a 2021 Harvard Business Review study, and 91% felt their company’s culture should support mental health. Offering on-site counseling sends the message that you’re serious about the issue. You might bring in a counselor once a month or partner with a local counselor for free sessions.
Yoga Classes or Massages
Another way to help employees is with on-site yoga classes or massages. Hire a yoga instructor to come in during lunch a few times a week to keep your employees flexible. The benefits of yoga include increased energy and improved mood. Other benefits of yoga include relaxation, and stress management.
Wellness Education
Tools for healthy eating can be a beneficial perk. Nutrition videos or on-site cooking demonstrations for healthy meals are examples. You could even organize a healthy meal-prep program weekly or monthly so employees can take home a good meal for the weekend.
Healthy Snacks
Offering free healthy snacks in the breakroom is another perk employees appreciate. Granola bars, oatmeal packets, fresh fruit, and yogurt are just a few options. It doesn’t cost a lot to stock the breakroom, but it’s a thoughtful perk for busy staff members.
Coaching Programs
Learning opportunities are important to employees, with 92% of respondents in a 2018 Axonify survey saying formal training has a positive impact on engagement. Offering coaching and other learning opportunities satisfy that desire for ongoing education. A mentor or coaching program can also build connections between employees to create a stronger team.
Office Games
Encourage fun play and team bonding with office games. Set aside time each week to play minute-to-win-it games. Or set up a ping-pong table, mini basketball hoop, board games, or other games that employees can use on breaks. Having fun at work offers a mental break and can be a bonding experience.
Offer Innovative Benefits
Giving your employees innovative benefits can improve employee retention and help you attract new employees. When you’re ready to hire, consider the hiring opportunities from Company Jobs Direct.
Julie Morris is a life and career coach. She thrives on helping others live their best lives. It’s easy for her to relate to clients who feel run over by life because she’s been there.
