Nontraditional employee benefits have expanded well beyond a break room stocked with snacks and cappuccinos. Businesses must be more creative to lure desirable employees to the workplace. While at first glance it may seem as if unique perks only benefit employees, on closer inspection it makes great business sense. Perks build employee morale, loyalty and satisfaction, which translates into less turnover and greater retention. Nontraditional perks also promote a positive corporate culture that helps burnish the company's image.
Here are some creative perks that have both employees and employers giving two thumbs up.
Family First. New baby bonuses are made available to those welcoming a new child into the family. Parents know the emotional and financial stress that having a baby brings. Family-friendly companies are stepping in to share the burden.
Similarly, for employees wanting to start a family but needing access to fertility treatments, many companies are helping offset expenses not covered by insurance. Some organizations will also contribute toward surrogacy costs or egg freezing if that's a viable option.
Once the baby arrives, many companies provide private lactation rooms for expressing health-promoting breast milk. Another perk offered to new parents is a family and parental leave policy that allows them to take the time they need without repercussions. On-site day care or discounts for child care are perks that any parent can appreciate. And when the child is ready for college, companies may offer college cost assistance for those who cannot afford it.
Additionally, elder care is a crucial and time-consuming task for anyone involved in the care of an older loved one. Some companies offer on-site eldercare on a weekly or daily basis to take some of the stress off their exhausted employees facing this challenge.
Education Opportunities. Employees are looking for organizations that are willing to invest in their careers. According to one study, 94% of employees would stay longer with a company if it helped foot some or all of the cost of tuition. Employees who are willing to put in time to train or learn new skills are worth the investment.
Mentally and Physically Fit. Wellness programs that provide subsidized gym memberships and access to massage therapy or acupuncture are highly valued perks. Some companies offer on-site treadmills, yoga mats, and healthy eating options in the cafeteria.
Mental health is a top priority, with more than 25% of Americans suffering from mental health issues each year. It makes sense for companies to step up and assist their employees who need reduced-cost counseling sessions, online therapy services or confidential consultations with a psychiatrist.
Forward-thinking businesses are setting the pace for what nontraditional perks employees can expect to see at their own workplaces. It may not be long before pet sitters, house cleaning services or discounted internet plans become commonplace perks.
Copyright Industry Newsletters 2025
