The Best Employee Perks to Look for in a New Job

When you’re applying and interviewing for new positions, it’s important to look for a job that not only pays well but one that also offers you extensive benefits. Medical, dental, and vision benefits are pretty much expected at this point (and still nice to have!), but there are plenty of perks beyond the standard offerings that might interest you. As you peruse different job postings, keep an eye out for benefits that promote a work-life balance, and appeal to you on a personal level. Check out some of the best, most interesting perks employers may offer below. 

Unlimited PTO

Many big companies, like Netflix for example, offer unlimited PTO, with the understanding that employees will only take time off when it won’t cause undue stress or hurt the company. Unlimited PTO reduced the chances of employees coming in sick and spreading germs because you don’t have to hoard your vacation time. You’d never have to worry about “saving up” PTO for a vacation or to see family, ever again!

Paid Parental Leave

If you are planning a family, it’s incredibly important to choose a company that offers both maternal and paternal leave. It can be difficult to have a newborn while juggling the requirements of work at the same time, so look for a company that supports your family life and needs.

Employee Recognition

It’s always worthwhile to work for an employer who takes the time to recognize the hard work of its employees. For example, many companies offer employee-of-the-month awards, which might come with canvas pictures, gift cards, snacks, and other treats. Employees who are regularly rewarded are more likely to be happier. 

Charitable Donations

Look for companies that offer charitable donation matches or one that gives you volunteer paid time off so you can give back to causes you feel passionate about. Not only does this help build a sense of comradery among coworkers, but it also allows you to support the local community.

Flexible Work Hours

Flexible hours or no official work hours mean the company trusts its employees to get their work done, without needing to be in their office chair for a set number of hours. Some employers may offer a flex start time in lieu of an official flex schedule, as well.

You may also want to look for an employer that offers set flex hours, like a 4-10 schedule that allows you to work 10 hours a day, 4 days a week. That means, a three-day weekend every single weekend. Or, if 10 hours seems too long, some employers also offer a 9-80 schedule. With that flex schedule, you’d work eight 9-hour days and one 8-hour day, plus an extra day off each pay period.

Tuition Reimbursement

Many employers offer their employees a chance to pursue higher education, free of cost to them. Not only do higher degrees mean you’re more competitive for your next job, but continued education also can open up doors within your own company.

Besides degrees, employers may also offer free workshops, certifications, and licensing, too.

Gym Fee Reimbursement

Do you take your fitness seriously? Look for a job that offers reimbursement for your daily workout session. You might even find a job that provides on-site fitness classes.

Questions to Ask During an Interview as an Applicant

Besides carefully examining the perks offered by companies you apply for, it’s also important to ask insightful questions to determine if a business is a cultural and professional fit. Below, we’ve assembled some examples of great questions to ask during an interview.

• Can you describe the culture of this company? 
• Where do you think the company is headed in the next five years? 
• What do you like best about working for the company? 
• What does your company do to promote diversity within its ranks?

Besides asking questions during the interview process, you should also do your due diligence with research on the company as well. It’s always a good idea to parse through the company’s Glassdoor reviews, but take a few negative reviews here and there with a grain of salt. With that said, if there are an overwhelming amount of consistently negative reviews, that’s a red flag that something is amiss.

Takeaways: Finding the Right Job for You

Although the job market might be tough, that doesn’t mean the right job isn’t out there for you or that you should settle for a position in a company that isn’t a fit. Prioritize your own personal and professional goals when you’re evaluating a potential job offer. Besides salary, perks, and the company culture can make or break your experience as an employee — so, choose wisely.