Employers, workers not in sync on popular office perks: Survey

Employees looking for compressed workweeks, ability to telecommute

Employers, workers not in sync on popular office perks: Survey
Extended health insurance is the most wanted benefit, according to a Robert Half survey. REUTERS/Regis Davignau

While flexible work schedules, a compressed workweek and the ability to telecommute are employees’ most sought-after non-monetary perquisites, fewer than one in five employers offer shorter workweeks or remote work options – though many do offer flexible work schedules.

That’s according to a survey of 1,500 workers and 600 HR managers in North America by Robert Half.

"Professionals today desire flexibility," said Greg Scileppi, president of Robert Half, international staffing operations. "By offering competitive compensation as well as programs that help their employees achieve greater work-life balance, organizations will more easily attract and retain top talent."

However, there is less of a disconnect when it came to monetary incentives: 44 per cent of employers said they offer annual or biannual bonuses to employees, and workers said bonuses were their most desired incentive (77 per cent) when considering job offers.

Profit-sharing plans and sign-on bonuses are also highly sought after (tied at 49 per cent), though only 33 per cent of employers offer profit-sharing plans while 19 per cent offer sign-on bonuses, found the survey.

When it comes to the most wanted employee benefits, these are extended health insurance (88 per cent) and paid time off, including vacation, sick days and paid holidays (80 per cent).

Top benefits offered

Health insurance 88%

Paid time off (including vacation, sick days and paid holidays) 80%

Dental insurance 71%

Vision Insurance  60%

Disability insurance (short-term and/or long-term) 58%

Life insurance and AD&D insurance 53%

Retirement savings plan 52%

Leave of absence 44%

Employee assistance program 39%

Pretax programs (e.g., commuter benefits, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts) 22%

Tuition assistance or reimbursement 14%

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