Flexible working is at the top of the list of the most desired benefits for people working in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), according to new research – with more than two fifths saying that this is their favourite benefit.
The study also found that being able to work from home was also a popular benefit, which almost 30 per cent of the those polled said they would like to be offered.
Private medical insurance was also highly valued with 31 per cent listing it as a benefit that they would like to receive.
Of those who opted for forms of insurance, 29 per cent said they would like life insurance, 23 per cent would choose income protection and 22 per cent cited critical illness cover.
Moreover, when choosing a job, almost 70 per cent of those polled said that salary was the most important factor to consider.
Working hours came next at 60 per cent, while location was not far behind at 57 per cent. Interestingly, benefits and perks only came in at 29 per cent.
Meanwhile, for those that were unhappy with their job, 57 per cent said it was because of a lack of recognition for their efforts.
If SME owners are looking to attract and keep employees next year, they need to think about what they are offering, particularly as experts have forecast a growing skills shortage as a result of Brexit and the uncertainty that surrounds the issue.
To find out more about our expert payroll services, please contact us.