What Do Your Workers Really Want
Discover what workers really want from employers and how small businesses can provide essential support services for a thriving work environment.
As a small business owner, you want to attract and retain the best talent, but what do your workers really want? In today's competitive job market, offering competitive salaries may not be enough. Employees are looking for employers who care about their well-being and offer support services that can help them feel secure in both their professional and personal lives. In this article, we'll explore the support services that workers really want and how small businesses can provide them.
Health and Wellness Benefits
Health and wellness benefits are an essential component of employee support services. Providing access to health insurance, mental health resources, and wellness programs can help employees maintain their physical and emotional well-being. Health and wellness benefits can also increase employee productivity and reduce absenteeism due to illness.
Many small businesses may think that offering such benefits is financially out of reach, but there are cost-effective options such as Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), telemedicine services, and wellness programs that can provide valuable support without overburdening your business.
Financial Wellness Programs
These programs aim to help employees achieve financial stability by providing education and resources on topics such as budgeting, debt management, and retirement planning. Some financial wellness programs also offer access to financial advisors or workshops on investing and financial planning. By providing these resources, employers can help their employees feel less stressed, more confident, and simply empowered in managing their finances.
Work-Life Balance Programs
Work-life balance programs are becoming increasingly important to workers in today's fast-paced / high-stress work environment. These programs include can include flexible scheduling, job-sharing, telecommuting, and paid time off for vacation, personal days, and family leave.
Flexible-scheduling
Flexible-scheduling allows employees to tailor their work hours around their personal lives, which can lead to improved work-life balance. This enables employees to manage family commitments, pursue hobbies, and attend to personal needs without compromising their work performance. As a result, employees feel more in control of their time, experience reduced stress, and enjoy a happier personal life.
Job-Sharing
Job-sharing is an arrangement where two employees share the responsibilities of one full-time position. This enables employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance by working fewer hours while still contributing meaningfully to their job. It allows employees to focus on personal goals, manage family responsibilities, and avoid burnout. Job-sharing, even when temporary, can lead to increased job satisfaction and overall happiness as employees feel supported in maintaining a fulfilling personal life alongside their career.
Telecommuting
Telecommuting allows employees to work remotely, often from home or a location of their choice, which can save time and money spent on commuting. This flexibility enables employees to focus on their work in a comfortable environment, leading to increased productivity and job satisfaction. It also provides opportunities to spend more time with family, engage in personal interests, and create an overall healthier, happier lifestyle.
Vacation & Personal Time
Vacation and personal time are essential for employees to recharge, relax, and alleviate stress. Time off from work further allows employees to focus on their personal lives, create cherished memories with loved ones, and pursue hobbies and interests. For some employees, it may be difficult to schedule time off. You can lead by example, and show your employees that they can also prioritize their well-being and family time over work. Time off ultimately prevents burnout, enhances productivity, and improves job satisfaction upon their return to work.
Professional Development Opportunities
Providing access to training programs, workshops, mentoring, and leadership development can help employees enhance their skills, build their confidence, and advance their careers. When workers feel invested in and have opportunities for growth, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. Moreover, offering professional development opportunities can improve retention rates and attract top talent, as employees are more likely to join and stay with an organization that invests in their personal and professional development.
Read More: Boost employee retention through skill-stacking and apprenticeships.
How Small Businesses Can Provide These Support Services
Prioritizing employee well-being by providing health and wellness benefits, financial wellness programs, work-life balance programs, and professional development opportunities can go a long way in ensuring employee satisfaction and productivity.
Additionally, flexible work arrangements such as remote work or flexible schedules can help employees achieve a better work-life balance.
Finally, partnering with external providers such as wellness centers, counseling services, or educational institutions can provide cost-effective solutions to offering support services to employees.
Read More: Here’s how Empleo can help your business provide support services.
In today's job market, workers are looking for more than just a paycheck. They want employers who care about their well-being and offer the support services they need to feel secure in both their professional and personal lives. As a small business owner, it's important to understand what your workers really want and how you can provide it. By prioritizing employee well-being, offering flexible work arrangements, and partnering with external providers, you can attract and retain the best talent and build a thriving business.
