The right employee benefits have become an important priority in recruiting and retaining employees at every type of business. Offering only health benefits just won’t continue to cut it. One of the most essential aspects of employee satisfaction in the workplace is the benefits offered. An impressive benefits package is also a great way to recruit and retain employees through the world’s ever-changing circumstances. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed our lives, the benefits that employees are searching for has changed. Building on our previous blog here are more of top requested employee benefits to consider offering in the post-pandemic workplace:
Home Office Expenses : Tax law allows employers to reimburse employees for legitimate job-related expenses. This includes home offices for the home office deduction. Employees forced to work at home due to the coronavirus qualify for the benefit. Employees can be fully reimbursed for any items purchased for the purpose of their home office. This is a great benefit to offer employees whether they are fully or partially working from home.
Employee Resource Groups : A great benefit that improves retention by creating a sense of belonging is the formation of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). ERGs, which Catalyst defines as “voluntary, employee-led groups that foster a diverse, inclusive workplace aligned with organizational mission, values, goals, business practices, and objective,” bring employees together around a shared purpose. This is a low employer cost benefit, by offering employees the space and time to be able to meet with their fellow employees.
Virtual Telehealth Programs : In addition to traditional healthcare benefits, offering telemedicine can actually lower healthcare costs overall. This occurs because efficiency and access to healthcare services lead to happier and healthier employees who choose to stay in your organization. Easy access to on demand healthcare from their personal device from anywhere they might be, is a huge benefit to any healthcare package.
Caretaking Benefits : Caregiving is a drain on employees productivity and many make the choice to leave the workforce all together and become a full time caregiver because they feel they have no other option. Offering caregiving benefits helps employees navigate the medical challenges as well as the lifestyle changes and legal documentation. This looks like working with a care advocate who offers referral services, like helping to find long-term care, assisted living or memory care facilities. Also providing the caregiver access to legal resources, assistance with creating or reviewing important legal documents like a will or power of attorney.
At LHUI in Seattle, WA, our team of insurance experts can help you decide and develop a comprehensive employee benefits package for your employees. No matter the size of your business, we will work alongside you to meet all of your coverage needs with creative solutions and expert guidance. Schedule a consultation with us today!