88% of Workers Prefer Flexible Work Over Higher Salary

With the ever-dwindling numbers of employees who are engaged at work, it makes sense to counter this trend by offering flexible jobs. Most employees are willing to stay at a job that allows them to fit their duties around their schedules even if they earn lower than their counterparts with no flexibility.

Of all the working demographic, Millennial workers are keenest about getting into flexible employment. Why? Many things make these jobs alluring to them. For instance, they allow people to meet personal and family obligations, save employees commuting costs, they help reduce burnout from work overload, they allow workers to perform their duties when they are most productive, among a host of other benefits.

Other than flexibility, and money, of course, there are other things that employees look for in a job. Here are 6 things that matter to workers that you should know as an employer:

Meaningful Work That Gives the Employee a Sense of Purpose

Like never before, more and more employees are looking for opportunities in companies, businesses, and organizations that give them a sense of meaning. No one wants to work under an employer that does not have an underlying “theme.” So, to make your firm more appealing to workers set some professional values that make it easy for them to identify its purpose.

Moreover, ensure that your company upholds good professional traits. This result can be achieved by setting up mechanisms that promote both professionalism and self-actualization. See, the modern day employee is particular about working for a solid employer that allows them to realize their intention of working.

A Job That Challenges Them Is Better Than Money

Ask any employee, and you will learn that a great workplace is where one can learn new ideas and skills, realize their full potential, and become the best versions of themselves. Every worker is keen on growing personally and professionally. And this end can only be achieved by giving employees the opportunity to take on work-related challenges. Upon solving these issues, the workers can stretch their thinking while at the same time test their abilities.

Make the workplace more challenging by asking your employees to come up with new ways to go about their daily duties, infusing healthy competition, and bringing in new people into the workplace to promote interaction and exchange of ideas.

Growth Opportunities Are Important in Millennial Employment

Today’s employees are not just looking for monetary perks. They are more concerned about companies that invest in the growth of their staff. Employees are more keen on jobs that provide opportunities to gain and grow their skills which in turn help them secure promotions to senior positions, start their own ventures or achieve whatever their long-term goals may be. As an employer seeking fresh talent or looking to maintain your current workforce, you must be ready to introduce professional development training making it clear what you can offer your staff.

Freedom and Positive Attitude in the Workplace

All employees undoubtedly want to feel like they are masters of their profession. No one wants to be micromanaged as they go about their duties. Delegating duties and interfering in the least way possible is the surest way to make your employees feel positive about their work.

Away from that, a sense of caring is demonstrated by an employer who allows workers to make decisions regarding their duties independently. As an employer, you should never worry about this since all workers understand that they are accountable for the consequences resulting from their decisions.

Visibility — No Recognition Is Not Worth the Money

Ever put effort at something and didn’t get recognition for it? When a worker puts in hard work but does not get the credit he/she deserves, he/she becomes demoralized. In some extreme cases, you may find others taking credit for work than another employee did. Visibility is giving your workers recognition inside or outside the firm for excellent performance in their jobs. Even though a pay increase or bonus is always welcomed, recognition can be a stronger motivator and a good way to attract top talent. For this reason, you will find most job seekers looking up a firm’s employee appraisal before applying for a job.

Passion — It’s a Bad Idea Working a Job You Hate

What are employers looking for in a potential employee? Professionalism, self-confidence, integrity, self-motivation, loyalty, a positive attitude, and most of all a strong work ethic. On the other hand, employees are mostly looking for jobs they are passionate about and not just the pay. When you are passionate about your job, you have the zeal to get up each day and go to work. It is your duty as an employer to keep your employees motivated and passionate. Workers who have a passion for their job are also more fulfilled and productive in the workplace.

Bottom Line on Work Benefits to Give Your Staff

As an employer, you ought to acknowledge that your employees have needs and desires. And these might extend beyond money. Things such parental leaves are prioritized by today’s workers more than pay raises or bonuses. To be a better employer and thus retain your top performing staff, you should take into account what has been suggested in this article.