If there were any benefits that came out of the pandemic, one might be that it allowed people to hit the pause button for a brief moment as we all determined how to continue working and living under a completely different set of circumstances and rules. This also opened the door for a reassessment of priorities, both personally and professionally. If this was you, you’re not alone. In fact, an Indeed survey of US workers who had switched jobs at least twice since the start of the pandemic showed that 92% realized that life is too short to stay in a job they weren’t passionate about.
Since the beginning of this shift, companies have been working to reassess their structures, cultures, and values to better meet employees’ needs as they move forward. While many companies already considered the well-being of their employees to be a focus for retaining good workers, some of the benefits that were once seen as “perks” have now become necessities for attracting and retaining employees in the current environment.
Here are some examples of what employees are asking for and what employers can do to meet these needs:
Work-life Balance
Employee Ask: Jobs that offer flexibility, remote work options, and supportive policies that enable them to effectively manage their personal and professional responsibilities. When the pandemic made it necessary for people to quickly adapt to remote work, the lines between their personal and professional lives became blurred. Perhaps because of this, individuals now value and require jobs that offer work-life balance.
For Employers to Consider: Offer a combination of remote and in-person work options or flexible scheduling arrangements that can accommodate different preferences and circumstances, while still meeting the organization’s needs and objectives.
Job Security and Stability
Employee Ask: Jobs that offer stability and opportunities for long-term growth within the organization. The economic uncertainty caused by the pandemic led to job loss and layoffs in many industries. As a result, job security and stability have become critical considerations for individuals when choosing their careers or evaluating their current employment.
For Employers to Consider: Demonstrate a clear path for growth and advancement within your organization. Highlight training programs, mentorship opportunities, and ongoing professional development initiatives that can help employees enhance their skills and advance their careers. Review and update your benefits package to align with the changing needs of employees.
Purpose and Meaning
Employee Ask: Meaningful work that makes a positive impact and contributes to society. Individuals are increasingly wanting to feel that their work has a greater purpose than just earning a paycheck.
For Employers to Consider: Highlight your organization’s values, mission, and commitment to community, social, and environmental involvement. Showcasing responsible business practices and community involvement can attract candidates who are motivated by making a positive impact. Invest in your employer brand by actively engaging on social media platforms and sharing authentic stories of employee experiences.
Remote Work and Flexibility
Employee Ask: Jobs that offer the benefits of remote work, flexible work arrangements, and autonomy. The widespread adoption of remote work during the pandemic highlighted the advantages of working from home, such as reduced commuting time and increased flexibility in managing their schedules.
For Employers to Consider: Remote work options and flexible work schedules, which can contribute to higher job satisfaction. Employees appreciate the autonomy and trust given to them, which can boost morale and motivation. Remote work also reduces workplace distractions, allowing individuals to concentrate better on their tasks.
Employee Well-being and Support
Employee Ask: Jobs with organizations that prioritize the well-being of their employees by offering mental health resources, support programs, and a supportive work environment.
For Employers to Consider: Additional benefits such as mental health support, wellness programs, childcare assistance, or financial wellness resources. Emphasize a supportive and inclusive work environment that promotes work-life balance, well-being and personal growth.
Digital Skills and Adaptability
Employee Ask: Jobs that offer opportunities for skill development, training, and the ability to adapt to rapidly changing work environments. The pandemic accelerated the need for digital collaboration and skills and adaptability in the workplace. These skills are now vital to good communication between team members and clients.
For Employers to Consider: Offer training for employees to ensure they are able to utilize digital tools effectively for numerous organizational benefits, such as enhanced customer service, online presence, and e-commerce, streamlining processes and improving decision-making, and enhancing communication between teams internally and with clients.
Two key steps to make sure these strategies work for your organization:
- Make sure the benefits you offer to your employees align with your company’s values, industry, and target talent pool.
- Regularly seek feedback from current and prospective employees so you can identify areas for improvement and stay relevant in attracting new talent.
If you find you could use support in any aspect of planning, transition, or change, or you need interim Human Resources support, we would love to talk with you. We have helped many of our clients work through challenges and walk the path to greater personal and organizational success, and we’d love to help you too. Contact us for a complimentary consultation at admin@InnovativeConnectionsInc.com or call us at 970-279-3330.
Our mission is to give voice and action to an emerging future. As a partner in your success, we would love to come alongside you to help you find your voice, see your vision, and imagine what the right action could be for you, your team, and your organization.
