New survey reveals the most desirable work perks companies should be paying attention to.

A new study by Remote has surveyed 10,000 individuals across five nations to reveal what employees value the most when it comes to ‘work perks’, and how these differ across locations, industries and generations.

With the labour market currently leaning in favour of employees, a company’s ability to attract and retain the right talent has never been more important. When sifting through hundreds of job adverts, a company’s perks can be pivotal in an individual’s decision to apply for a role. But whether it’s flexible working hours or a secure retirement scheme, what are the most desirable ‘work perks’?

The survey explored the opinions of those across five nations including the UK, US, France, Germany and The Netherlands, to uncover what individuals across different generations and industries value the most when it comes to ‘work perks’.

Continuing to uphold the tradition of in-person work events was a key priority amongst both Gen Zs and Millennials, as they were the generations which value in-person team-building events most (57%/59%). Well-being and mental health were also highly valued by these generations as they also favoured access to mental health coaching the most (58%).

Baby boomers’ priorities were slightly different, with company-sponsored retirement plans (80%) topping their list as the most desired ‘work perk’.

Those who work in IT and telecommunications favour flexible working more than any other sector

Generation was not the only factor in an individual’s most desired ‘work perk’, industry was also found to play a significant role. Individuals who work in education (78%) and law (78%) were found to value company-sponsored retirement plans or pensions the most, compared to those in IT and telecoms who favoured flexible working hours (81%).

Those under significant stress and pressure in the healthcare sector prioritised access to online therapy and mental health support more than any other industry (59%). Healthcare workers were not the only individuals who prioritised their mental health, as those working in finance were found to desire access to virtual yoga or mindfulness sessions more than any other sector (45%).

Higher levels of productivity are among the benefits employers reap from providing ‘work perks’

Psychotherapist Sarah Lee offers exclusive insight on the relationship between employee benefits and staff productivity, stating:

“Given the increased interest in mental health in recent years, I believe that employees are becoming more aware of the connections between work and their wellbeing.

“Employee benefits such as flexible working can be another way to value employees or to be more inclusive. It demonstrates an understanding that not everyone has the same commitments or priorities.

“Individuals who feel valued, respected, and who have the flexibility to take care of themselves are better able to focus on work and if they feel good about themselves are more productive. In situations with poor working conditions, morale is often low and people can end up feeling helpless and depressed or demotivated.”

For more information on the most desired company benefits, please see the full study here: employee-benefits