Holy Sh*t! Look at These Company Perks
Photo: Vogue France
Do you recall the days when complimentary company lunches, regular in-office happy hours, and 'bring your pet to work' days were hailed as innovative and extraordinary workplace perks? These offerings have now transitioned from being exceptional to expected, often considered as foundational elements of employee benefits.
Historically, industry giants like Apple, Facebook, and Google pioneered in offering distinctive perks and benefits, setting a benchmark in employee attraction and retention. Today, this trend has cascaded down to smaller businesses and agencies who are embracing the ethos that unique benefits are not just appreciated but essential. From all-expenses-paid company retreats to generous paternity leave policies, these perks have become pivotal in creating a desirable and competitive workplace culture. This shift underlines a broader change in workplace dynamics, where creative and meaningful perks are no longer the exception but a requisite for any forward-thinking organization.
What is Classified as a Perk?
Perks are non-financial incentives an employer offers its employees in addition to their regular salary and benefits. These perks are designed to enhance the overall compensation package and make the workplace more attractive and enjoyable for employees. Perks play an important role in employer branding and differentiating yourself from competitors in an already competitive market. During the Great Resignation, we saw an increase in creative perks from clients as a way for them to retain employees. Similarly, as businesses began implementing return-to-office policies, perks like complimentary lunches, transportation allowances, and even nap pods emerged as key motivators. These incentives not only enticed employees back to the office but also rekindled their enthusiasm for the workplace environment. This trend underscores the significance of well-conceived perks in fostering a positive and engaging work culture.
Ready to revolutionize your company's perks but feeling a bit stumped on where to start? We've curated an inspiring collection of some of the most jaw-dropping perks we've seen.
Top Perks on our Radar
Concierge Services: Concierge services: Employer S.C Johnson provides employees with an on-site concierge service that helps them with errands such as grocery runs, laundry and mailing packages. The whole idea of this is to help employees balance their work and personal life.
Hustle Fund: Having a side hustle is becoming the norm, and Manifest Group not only recognizes this, but wants to invest in its employees' passion projects. The Hustle Fund is an annual investment available to employees to help fund their side hustle, whether it be painting, yoga, cooking, or truly whatever their heart desires (within reason!).
Paid Leave Before Start Date: Transitioning from one job to another can be stressful, and most employees don’t have the luxury of taking time off between jobs. MikeWorldWide provides new employees with a paid week off before they start. We can’t think of a warmer welcome to a new company. Plus, an added benefit for employers is having employees who are rested, refreshed and ready to give their all to their new role.
Pawternity: From pet-friendly office policies to pet insurance plans, companies are taking into account that their employee’s pets are just like children and creating perks that speak to this. The most over the top benefit we’ve seen is paid time off (PTO) to attend to the needs of a new pet, including veterinary appointments and facilitating the pet's transition to its new home. Dedicated pet-centric policies empower pet owners to welcome a new furry companion into their lives responsibly— without the need to dip into conventional vacation days.
No Official Work Hours: Flexible work schedules are becoming the new norm as companies emphasize the importance of employee work-life balance. Netflix (and Monday Talent!) doesn’t log employee hours in office or keep track of who is online. The company solely evaluates employees based on their accomplishments. As long as the work is completed, the timing or the number of hours spent in the office is irrelevant.
Vacation stipend: As a leading travel company, it makes sense that Airbnb provides employees with an annual travel stipend of $2000. This is paid out quarterly, not as extra salary, but as a dedicated fund to cover travel expenses during vacations. This approach not only delivers the same financial value to employees but also conveys meaningful messages: the company values their well-being, acknowledges the importance of work-life balance, and positions itself as a forward-thinking and considerate employer.
Full Coverage of Gender Reassignment Surgery: It isn’t widely known, but Goldman Sachs is one of the most progressive companies when it comes to transgender rights. Since 2008, the company has been a pioneer in inclusivity by offering a comprehensive benefits package that fully covers gender reassignment surgery. This coverage extends to all associated prescription medications, underscoring their commitment to the well-being and affirmation of their transgender employees. This forward-thinking approach not only sets a commendable standard for corporate responsibility but also reflects a deeper understanding and support of diversity in the workplace.
Perks like these are reshaping today’s work environments. They are not just points of interest for job seekers looking for dynamic and supportive workplaces, but also serve as a benchmark for employers aiming to attract top talent and foster a positive company culture. From Airbnb’s unique travel expense fund to S.C. Johnson’s concierge service, these perks reflect a deep understanding of employee needs and a commitment to work-life balance. They stand as prime examples of how innovative benefits can significantly enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty, while setting a company apart in a competitive market.
