Not every business has the money to give their staff free healthcare and childcare. But every business has a responsibility for nurturing a positive and healthy working environment and showing support and appreciation to their staff. 

Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, it’s important to know that you wouldn’t be where you are today without a team of dedicated staff – let alone get to where you want to be in the future. 

This is why most businesses offer some level of work perk or benefit to their staff. 

Employee benefits can vary from Friday afternoon drinks or paid sick pay, and the number of benefits you can offer your team will be highly dependent on how much you can afford. 

So no matter what type of business you’re running or how much budget you have, there are plenty of employee benefits you can offer to give back to your staff. 

Medical cover

One of the most common employee benefits you’ll see advertised within job descriptions is medical cover or health insurance. This benefit usually covers simple medical procedures, visits to the doctors, and trips to A&E.

Retirement plans

One of the best employee benefits is retirement plans. Plans like 401k and SEP (simplified employee pension) are common, with most businesses now offering these perks to all employees. 

College grants and scholarships

If you really want to show your staff you’re ready to support them throughout their career, you could offer them a college grant or scholarship. These perks are usually offered in the hope that the employee will use their new knowledge and qualifications to benefit the business. Some companies will offer support to staff looking to go back to college part-time while continuing to work for the company. 

Remote work flexibility

Although younger generations no longer see this as a benefit and more a necessity, allowing staff to work from home can help promote a work/life balance. This, in turn, can improve productivity and make staff feel responsible for their own progress and workloads. 

There are lots of benefits to allowing remote working, and the pandemic will certainly have shown whether this flexibility works for your business. 

Investment opportunities 

Another great way to show your appreciation for your staff is to give them a share of the success! Corporate businesses often provide staff with the opportunity to invest in stocks or shares of the business and reap the benefits at a later date.

Free fruit Mondays

Work benefits don’t have to be contractual agreements regarding salary and holiday pay, either. There are much smaller ways to show appreciation and create a positive working environment. For example, fruit baskets being delivered to each department every week can be a great little pick-me-up. It also helps to promote a healthy lifestyle. 

Pizza Fridays

Not so healthy, but plenty of businesses see the benefit of treating staff to lunches or free socializing activities. Whether it’s after-work drinks or pizza for lunch on Fridays, these key occasions are perfect for staff to socialize and relax while at work. 

If you’re not currently offering your staff benefits, hopefully, this list will give you the inspiration you need to start!