Recruiting in 2022: 7 Employee Benefits to Attract Remote Workers

Most employers are supervising remote employees in 2022.  They’re also encountering challenges unique to remote hiring. The best way to recruit employees (particularly remote employees) in 2022’s competitive job market is to offer an attractive benefits package. MP’s recruiting services experts share the seven elements of a competitive benefits package for recruiting in 2022.

A Benefits Package that Stands Out: The 7 Most Attractive Benefits for Recruiting in 2022

1. Paid family leave:

Some states are beginning to offer some form of paid family leave. Employers will set themselves apart if they offer workers some form of paid time off to:

• Welcome a newborn baby
• Adopt a child
• Foster a child
• Care for a sick relative

Employers should consider working with an HR provider, such as MP, to develop a policy for paid family leave. These HR experts can help ensure that the policy is in HR compliance with relevant state laws. Beyond attracting top talent, paid parental leave programs will also assist employers with improving employee retention. Employees will stay in their positions longer if they are able to temporarily leave for these life events, then return to the organization without negative consequences.

2. Health benefits:

Employers have frequently used health benefits to attract employees who work remotely. They may also find a reduction in their own costs for health insurance, sick days, etc. when their employees are healthier. Remote employees will appreciate health benefits such as:

• Health assessments and biometric screenings for reduced health insurance costs
• Access or benefits to health coaching services
• Discounts or free gym and workout equipment and gear
• Gym membership discounts and reimbursements
• Memberships to online fitness programs, such as Peloton or Soul Cycle

3. Mental health benefits:

Mental health is a priority for all employees, but remote workers may find it especially crucial. Working remotely sometimes feels particularly isolating for some people, which may exacerbate mental health challenges. As mentioned above, employers are also likely to find an advantage in supporting their workers’ mental health. Happier employees are more engaged, productive, and experience fewer issues with absenteeism. Remote employees may appreciate:

• Discounts or reimbursements on counseling and psychiatric services
• Access or discounts to meditation programs

4. Pet benefits:

All candidates are likely to appreciate benefits for their pets. In American culture, pets are more appreciated than ever, with many people even using the term “pet parent.” Employees might appreciate:

• Pet insurance
• Paid time off for caring for pets
• Paid time off for pet bereavement

5. Community service benefits:

Especially among younger generations, social justice is becoming a significant priority. Remote employees might find community service benefits especially appealing because it may be easier to take time from their schedules to volunteer. They may also appreciate the opportunity to leave their homes and interact with the community. Candidates may appreciate:

• Paid time off to volunteer
• Organized team opportunities to volunteer
• A charity donation matching program

6. Financial benefits:

Employers will be more successful recruiting in 2022 with various financial benefits. Remote and in-person employees at all income levels will appreciate financial benefits such as:

• ID theft protection
• Student loan repayment programs
• Training (especially remote) from professionals on debt reduction, asset management, or saving for future needs such as retirement, buying a home and using mortgage services, childrens’ education, etc.
• Retirement savings programs

7. Stipends for a remote workspace.

When positioning to attract remote employees, it’s effective to offer funds for improving their remote workspace. Some companies offer up to $1,000 for employees to use towards items they’ll use during their workdays, such as desk, chair, computer, coffeemaker, headphones, or other technology.