5 DEC 2022

The Top 7 Employee Benefits In 2022

In a candidate driven market, employee benefits play a huge role in being able to attract and retain the top talent. In a new hybrid working environment though, we look back at what benefits that really mattered to employees in 2022?

Not all of these can be offered by FE Colleges, but there are many benefits Colleges give which are not highlighted enough.

  

1. Flexible Schedule

Flexibility is a core benefit that employees look for. Offering a more flexible work schedule can help you widen your talent pool.

On top of statutory requirements, colleges often offer enhanced family friendly policies that you may not be highlighting to potential future employees.

 

2. Healthcare

Healthcare can be expensive and so employer healthcare benefits can provide a competitive edge when trying to land top talent.

Most colleges offer fantastic health care insurance cover and life assurance schemes. This benefit is an absolute must to include in job adverts and full detailed on careers pages.

 

3. Remote Working 

Remote working was on the rise before the pandemic but is now seen as essential perk that many employees put at the top of their wish list. This is usually one of the first questions candidates ask us when enquiring about a role.

A tricky option to offer and not always possible. Working on campus, department type, teaching / non- teaching can make this difficult. However, some roles can be WFH for part of the week and it’s important to map out these roles now as employees will demand future flexibility to match industry counterparts.

 

4. Holiday Allowance

The end of the year is often a time for staff to take leave and enjoy some time off with the family. But this is not always possible depending on your job or the amount of leave you’re allowed. Studies show that holidaying is good for wellbeing. The better your staff feel mentally and physically, the more productive they will be at work. 

Colleges offer some of the best holiday allowances, normally a min of 30 days, plus college term dates &, bank holidays!  So, shout from the roof tops how good your offering is!

 

5. Mental Health Support

Mental health has been a key topic over the last few years and employees now expect employers to take a more active approach in helping them find a healthy work / life balance.

 Colleges offer free and confidential counselling and employee helplines, on-going support and guidance.

 

6. Financial Support

Financial wellbeing is a big concern for many employees so offering support through financial advice and resources can help your employees improve their financial wellbeing.

Colleges offer support and discount schemes on and off campus, and external partnerships. Benefits such as free car parking, travel schemes, subsidised food on campus all help.

7. Opportunity

Employees are looking for clear progression and growth opportunities. Offer a transparent path forward which will provide motivation and improve employee engagement.

Colleges offer on going staff training and development, with clear career paths and progression.

 

It really is essential to be loud & proud about the many exceptional benefits your college offers, many candidates particularly those new to FE have no idea these are available.

List them on your job adverts and highlight them on your careers page.

An excellent example of this is from the TEC Partnership, where they provide a full breakdown of employee benefits.