8 answers
edward
Student
Monroe, Virginia
1
Question
Asked
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What benefits should be important other than a 401K and how do they affect your work life.?
is there any other benefits that would end up being crucial to a good and healthy work environment
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8 answers
Kevin Lee
Financial Analyst
2
Answers
Hopkinton, Massachusetts
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Anything that pertains to work life balance.
Things like:
Paid time off, days that you can actually take. Sometimes companies with "unlimited" PTO backfires because many employees feel inclined to continue to work and not slack. Defined days off make it easier to use your time as just that: yours
A defined work schedule. A classic 9-5 is nice because the consistently can allow you to schedule your life outside of work.
Lesser known benefits are health and fitness related. Some companies will pay for your gym membership which is quite nice.
Things like:
Paid time off, days that you can actually take. Sometimes companies with "unlimited" PTO backfires because many employees feel inclined to continue to work and not slack. Defined days off make it easier to use your time as just that: yours
A defined work schedule. A classic 9-5 is nice because the consistently can allow you to schedule your life outside of work.
Lesser known benefits are health and fitness related. Some companies will pay for your gym membership which is quite nice.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1665
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Edward,
Short term and long term disability insurance is rarely mentioned when discussing benefits, but, is very affordable and very necessary. A bad car accident put me out of work for 8 weeks. My disability insurance replaced my paycheck, first at 100% for 2 weeks, then 80% for 4 weeks, and 60% for the last 2 weeks.
Everyone likes to try to sell young people life insurance, but, you are more likely to become temporarily incapacitated than you are to die. But, yes, if you are supporting a family, you also need life insurance. This can be obtained through work, or outside of work.
Short term and long term disability insurance is rarely mentioned when discussing benefits, but, is very affordable and very necessary. A bad car accident put me out of work for 8 weeks. My disability insurance replaced my paycheck, first at 100% for 2 weeks, then 80% for 4 weeks, and 60% for the last 2 weeks.
Everyone likes to try to sell young people life insurance, but, you are more likely to become temporarily incapacitated than you are to die. But, yes, if you are supporting a family, you also need life insurance. This can be obtained through work, or outside of work.
Megan Midkiff
Sr Talent Acquisition Partner
9
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Megan’s Answer
Companies can offer a variety of total rewards to their employees. Here are some you might consider:
• Health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans such as a 401k Defined Pension Benefit and matching program
• Support for emotional and mental health, including access to a digital fitness platform and resources for fertility and family planning
• Insurance options like life, short-term and long-term disability, legal, supplemental, as well as wellness hours, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, and even pet insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for additional support
• Fitness programs and tuition assistance or reimbursement to encourage personal growth
• Competitive pay and performance bonuses to reward hard work
• Opportunities for hands-on technical experience, free learning resources, and a learning management system to foster continuous learning
• Job shadowing, stretch projects, and career mobility for professional development
• Hybrid working options with commuter benefits and a cell phone stipend for flexible work arrangements
Remember, a company's genuine mission, vision, and values are also significant 'benefits' for your career. Feeling proud of your company and energized by a positive work environment is crucial!
• Health benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans such as a 401k Defined Pension Benefit and matching program
• Support for emotional and mental health, including access to a digital fitness platform and resources for fertility and family planning
• Insurance options like life, short-term and long-term disability, legal, supplemental, as well as wellness hours, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, and even pet insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for additional support
• Fitness programs and tuition assistance or reimbursement to encourage personal growth
• Competitive pay and performance bonuses to reward hard work
• Opportunities for hands-on technical experience, free learning resources, and a learning management system to foster continuous learning
• Job shadowing, stretch projects, and career mobility for professional development
• Hybrid working options with commuter benefits and a cell phone stipend for flexible work arrangements
Remember, a company's genuine mission, vision, and values are also significant 'benefits' for your career. Feeling proud of your company and energized by a positive work environment is crucial!
Jeannette Cook
Writer, Communications Manager, Yoga Teacher
17
Answers
Belgium
Updated
Jeannette’s Answer
Dear Edward,
Here are some benefits that I currently have:
- Contribution to commuting costs (this could, if I was in another sector, be a car). This is an indirect benefit to my actual work.
- Phone and phone service. This is more of a direct benefit as I use the phone for my work.
- Work from home 2-3 days per week. For me, this is crucial to life/work balance!
- Health/medical insurance. I live in Europe, and my employer is too stingy to provide top-up insurance from what's offered to everyone. So I fund this myself. It would make a huge difference if I had it, and would make me happier with my employer.
- Contribution to continued professional development. A win-win for both employee and employer.
- We used to have a weekly fruit basket for the office but this went away with Covid and WFH.
Other things I've had in the past:
Option to purschase stock in the company - great benefit.
Performance bonuses.
Extra paid vacation/holiday beyond the standard.
Sabbatical/time-off reserves after a certain level of seniority (with job protection) -- great perk.
Tuition reimbursement.
Wellness type benefits like gym membership.
A good and healthy work environment is one in which you are compensated properly for your contributions towards making money for the owners of the business. They cannot do it without you. Respect and clear boundaries between work and life are essential. Remember, an employer often asks a lot of an employee, including supposed loyalty, but will axe you in a second if the accountants say to do it.
I hope this is helpful! Best of luck to you.
Jeannette
Here are some benefits that I currently have:
- Contribution to commuting costs (this could, if I was in another sector, be a car). This is an indirect benefit to my actual work.
- Phone and phone service. This is more of a direct benefit as I use the phone for my work.
- Work from home 2-3 days per week. For me, this is crucial to life/work balance!
- Health/medical insurance. I live in Europe, and my employer is too stingy to provide top-up insurance from what's offered to everyone. So I fund this myself. It would make a huge difference if I had it, and would make me happier with my employer.
- Contribution to continued professional development. A win-win for both employee and employer.
- We used to have a weekly fruit basket for the office but this went away with Covid and WFH.
Other things I've had in the past:
Option to purschase stock in the company - great benefit.
Performance bonuses.
Extra paid vacation/holiday beyond the standard.
Sabbatical/time-off reserves after a certain level of seniority (with job protection) -- great perk.
Tuition reimbursement.
Wellness type benefits like gym membership.
A good and healthy work environment is one in which you are compensated properly for your contributions towards making money for the owners of the business. They cannot do it without you. Respect and clear boundaries between work and life are essential. Remember, an employer often asks a lot of an employee, including supposed loyalty, but will axe you in a second if the accountants say to do it.
I hope this is helpful! Best of luck to you.
Jeannette
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Edward thank you for reaching our and asking your question. I'm thrilled to see your proactive approach in considering the full range of benefits beyond just the 401(k). It's admirable that you understand the importance of a comprehensive benefits package in shaping your overall work experience. Such a package extends beyond mere financial aspects, playing a crucial role in creating a healthy and nurturing work environment. I've consulted with my HR colleagues and they've highlighted some key benefits that could significantly influence your work life:
1. Comprehensive health coverage is a vital benefit. It not only fosters your well-being but also provides financial protection against unforeseen medical expenses. This allows you to prioritize your health without the stress of financial implications.
2. Benefits like regular dental and vision check-ups contribute to your overall health and quality of life. Having coverage for these services can significantly improve your well-being.
3. Flexible work hours or the opportunity to work from home can enhance your work-life balance, decrease stress, and boost job satisfaction. It empowers you to effectively juggle personal and professional commitments.
4. Sufficient paid time off is crucial to rejuvenate and prevent burnout, promoting mental health. Celebrating holidays contributes to a positive workplace atmosphere.
5. Support for continuous learning and development can propel your career growth. This may include access to training programs, workshops, or tuition reimbursement for further education.
6. Employee assistance programs, counseling services, or mental health days can foster a supportive work environment, underlining the significance of mental well-being.
7. Comprehensive family and parental leave policies support employees during major life events, cultivating a family-friendly workplace and showcasing the employer's dedication to work-life balance.
8. Programs that promote physical fitness, mental health, and overall well-being can boost your health and productivity. These might include gym memberships, wellness challenges, or health screenings.
9. Besides a 401(k), assistance and advice in retirement planning can secure your long-term financial stability, offering peace of mind.
10. Recognition of your hard work and accomplishments through rewards, bonuses, or employee recognition programs can elevate morale and motivation.
The thing you should remember Edward is that a robust benefits package is a testament to an employer's dedication to your overall well-being, fostering a positive and supportive work environment. As you navigate your career, prioritize employers who comprehend the significance of these benefits in promoting a healthy work-life balance.
1. Comprehensive health coverage is a vital benefit. It not only fosters your well-being but also provides financial protection against unforeseen medical expenses. This allows you to prioritize your health without the stress of financial implications.
2. Benefits like regular dental and vision check-ups contribute to your overall health and quality of life. Having coverage for these services can significantly improve your well-being.
3. Flexible work hours or the opportunity to work from home can enhance your work-life balance, decrease stress, and boost job satisfaction. It empowers you to effectively juggle personal and professional commitments.
4. Sufficient paid time off is crucial to rejuvenate and prevent burnout, promoting mental health. Celebrating holidays contributes to a positive workplace atmosphere.
5. Support for continuous learning and development can propel your career growth. This may include access to training programs, workshops, or tuition reimbursement for further education.
6. Employee assistance programs, counseling services, or mental health days can foster a supportive work environment, underlining the significance of mental well-being.
7. Comprehensive family and parental leave policies support employees during major life events, cultivating a family-friendly workplace and showcasing the employer's dedication to work-life balance.
8. Programs that promote physical fitness, mental health, and overall well-being can boost your health and productivity. These might include gym memberships, wellness challenges, or health screenings.
9. Besides a 401(k), assistance and advice in retirement planning can secure your long-term financial stability, offering peace of mind.
10. Recognition of your hard work and accomplishments through rewards, bonuses, or employee recognition programs can elevate morale and motivation.
The thing you should remember Edward is that a robust benefits package is a testament to an employer's dedication to your overall well-being, fostering a positive and supportive work environment. As you navigate your career, prioritize employers who comprehend the significance of these benefits in promoting a healthy work-life balance.
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
In my own experience and beyond a 401(k), several benefits are crucial for fostering a good and healthy work environment. Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, ensures employees can prioritize their well-being without financial strain. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options or flexible hours, promote work-life balance, reducing stress and enhancing overall job satisfaction. Mental health support, through Employee Assistance Programs or counseling services, contributes to a positive workplace by addressing stress and promoting emotional well-being. Professional development opportunities, like training programs or tuition reimbursement, empower employees to grow in their roles, fostering a culture of continuous learning. Inclusive benefits, such as parental leave, childcare support, or diversity and inclusion initiatives, contribute to a supportive and diverse workplace. These benefits collectively create a work environment where employees feel valued, supported, and motivated to contribute their best efforts.
Colberte Proctor
Contract Manager
3
Answers
Upper Marlboro, Maryland
Updated
Colberte’s Answer
Hello! Health Insurance is a very important benefit to have. You want to make sure you have full health, dental, and vision insurance. Most large companies will offer you different tiers of insurance for you to choose from, but at a minimum you want to make sure you sign up for a plan so that if you have a health issue, you can see a doctor and have the costs partially taken care of. You can also cover family members.
Nikki Roche
Benefits Professional
2
Answers
Fleet, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Nikki’s Answer
Hello,
The primary advantages you may gain can vary based on your life's stage and individual preferences. However, in the United States, Health Insurance is generally considered essential.
There are also other non-material benefits that can contribute to a satisfying and healthy work life. These include flexible work schedules and a nurturing company culture - an environment that encourages you to express your true self and makes you feel like you're a part of the team.
The primary advantages you may gain can vary based on your life's stage and individual preferences. However, in the United States, Health Insurance is generally considered essential.
There are also other non-material benefits that can contribute to a satisfying and healthy work life. These include flexible work schedules and a nurturing company culture - an environment that encourages you to express your true self and makes you feel like you're a part of the team.