It’s the new year, which means many have resolutions to get or remain healthy in 2019. One way of doing this is by seeking out employers who offer health and wellness benefits. In a candidate-driven market, employers who offer such benefits will be able to quickly attract talent.
According to new research from staffing firm OfficeTeam, 73% of professionals surveyed said a company’s health and wellness offerings influence their decision to work there. Employees place the greatest weight on wellness incentives that reward healthy behavior (26%) and fitness facilities or programs (23%).
Fortunately, these are the resources most commonly offered by organizations (43% and 41%, respectively). On the flip side of things, 20% of companies admit they don’t have any health and wellness options.
In the survey, workers were asked, “To what extent does a company’s health and wellness offerings influence your decision to work there?” Their responses:
- A great deal (37%)
- Somewhat (36%)
- Not at all (28%)*
*Responses do not total 100% due to rounding.
What Workers Value Most
The infographic below highlights the health and wellness offerings valued most by workers, and what’s offered at companies:
Additional Findings
Professionals ages 18 to 34 (87%) most often said health and wellness offerings impact their decision to work at an organization, compared to those ages 35 to 54 (70 %) and 55 and older (44%). Seventy-nine percent of male employees reported the same, versus 65% of women.
Larger companies (500 or more employees) are more likely to have health and wellness programs than smaller ones (20-499 employees).
“Candidates today are taking a holistic view when weighing job offers, including looking at resources that impact their overall well-being,” said Stephanie Naznitsky, executive director of OfficeTeam—in a press release announcing the findings. “Companies that recognize employee health goes beyond standard benefits packages and offer robust wellness programs and perks are more likely to land and retain top talent.”