Employers looking to increase job satisfaction among millennial employees may want to pay more attention to the perks their company offers. New research shows that more than 75 percent of workers aged 18 to 24 say employee perks are crucial to their job satisfaction, compared to only half of baby boomers.
Why might this generation consider goodies to be so important? Possibilities experts frequently cite include:
- They crave instant, clear recognition from those in charge. (“Great work–here’s an Amazon gift card.”)
- They grew up in a “rewards” environment, where trophies and other symbols of achievement were commonplace.
- They want interesting material to share with friends on social media. (Employers benefit from these posts too. Your company ups its reputation as a great place to work when employees rave about the massage therapist brought in to reduce holiday stress.)
- Unlimited job posts
- Low, flat membership fee
- Access top-level remote advice
- Unlimited resume searches
- Reach the right candidates
- And so much more!
Discover a better way to recruit remote talent
Founded in 2007, FlexJobs is the most experienced remote & hybrid hiring platform.
Types of Employee Perks to Offer
When deciding what types of perks to offer, consider this advice from Beverly Langford, president of LMA Communication, Inc., and author of The Etiquette Edge.
“Millennials like flexibility and choices, so recognition that not only rewards them but also gives them control over how they use the benefits is another key attribute. For that reason, gift cards, discounts, and memberships are appealing. Perks that fulfill the younger workers’ desire for travel and experience should also be a big hit.”
Because millennials commonly view work-life balance as a priority, perks that demonstrate support for “living life to its fullest” also can encourage satisfaction and loyalty. Extra days off, flexible scheduling, and telecommuting options are luring benefits that are consistent with the idea of enabling millennials to have choices. Perhaps even consider paid time off for staff members to volunteer or take a class.
Not sure what employee perks would work best at your establishment? Just ask. Employees will be happy to offer opinions, and your interest in truly trying to make them happy goes a long way toward improving morale and retention.
Interesting in browsing resumes and professional candidates?
Request an Invite to FlexJobs
Reades, what employee perks do you offer at your company? Tell us in the comments below!
Photo Credit: bigstockphoto.com
Don't forget to share this article with colleagues!
