In a competitive job market, Canadian companies need to find innovative ways to attract and retain top talent. As well as salary and traditional benefits, providing attractive company perks can be a strategic means by which to enhance employee satisfaction.
What are some of the top company perks that organizations can use to stand out as an employer, and attract and retain exceptional employees beyond the usual financial perks and generous vacation allowances?
Inclusive Onboarding
Having an inclusive and welcoming onboarding process that is attractive to would-be employees is important as it sets the tone for their experience with the organization. Ensuring that new employees feel positive about the organization from the beginning can foster a greater sense of loyalty and aid retention.
A commitment to inclusivity during the onboarding process signals to prospective employees that an organization is committed to creating a work environment where everyone can thrive.
Flexible Working
Work-life balance has never been more important for employees and it can deliver productivity benefits for employers. Flexible working arrangements are increasingly valued, with options such as remote work, flexible hours and compressed working weeks, giving employers a competitive edge.
Providing employees with greater freedom when it comes to managing their work schedule and balancing their personal commitments inspires greater loyalty and enhances productivity.
Health & Wellness
Staying healthy, fit and well in body and mind is not only a priority for employees. A healthy workforce has fewer absences and is happier and more productive, all of which are beneficial for employers.
Creating organizational wellness initiatives, providing well-being time, offering mental health support and gym memberships, can all support a healthier and happier workforce. Allied with a strong culture of work-life balance, health and wellness initiatives can be highly attractive to potential employees.
Professional Development Opportunities
Allowing employees to develop their skills and grow professionally has a range of benefits for organizations. Training programs, networking opportunities, financial support for learning programs, and mentorship all demonstrate a commitment to employee development. By helping employees acquire new skills and knowledge, organizations can support career advancement and provide opportunities for continuous learning.
Social & Community Involvement
Increasingly, employees are concerned with the role an organization plays within the community and wider society. Businesses and organizations that have volunteer programs, and community projects, or who engage in sustainability initiatives can increase the sense of pride and loyalty among employees.
Volunteer programs and other social-oriented projects provide a range of opportunities for employees to develop new skills, make friends and contribute to the wider well-being of the community.
Employee Recognition & Rewards
Recognizing and rewarding the hard work and achievements of employees can help to boost morale and foster a positive work culture. Formal recognition programs, performance-based bonuses and incentives ensure your organization recognizes hard work and excellence.
When employees are willing to go the extra mile for the success of the organization this should be celebrated. The same applies to milestones and accomplishments, all of which can be used to show appreciation and motivate employees.
These are just some of the ways employers can enhance the employee experience. With a bit of creativity and innovative thinking, businesses have the opportunity to build high-performance teams that will thrive, and importantly, will stay in the organization.
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