by Brittany Brooks

As an industry, we have felt the challenges to finding and keeping great labor. Minimum wage increases and remote work opportunities have created added pressure to our already limited workforce. The employee candidate pool is no longer just looking for a stable income and health benefits, they are looking for culture and growth.

Employee Perk Programs are becoming a new tool for businesses to attract their next candidates, as well as maintain their current workforce. Below are some creative and innovative employee perk options to consider adding to your business:

• Employee Referral Programs
• Gas Reimbursement
• Sign-on bonuses
• Paid Birthdays
• Educational Training
• Computer Skills Training
• Language Training
• Relaxing Workspaces/Breakrooms
• Student Loan Repayment Plans
• Childcare Stipend/Reimbursement

Jeanette Homan with Lambert Enterprises shared that their business has offered their employees a pre-season raise and mid-season bonuses. In addition, Lambert Enterprises offered loyalty incentives by providing double-time pay for Saturday work; allowing shipments to get cleared off the floor thus freeing up additional warehouse space. While their payroll costs have increased 38% from 2020 to 2021, Jeanette is able to retain that needed workforce for peak-season demand! 

Attracting quality candidates starts from within. Take the time to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work your current workforce is producing. Take photos and share them with your organization, call out an all-star employee in your monthly meetings, highlight someone who is doing the extra! As a leader in your organization, lead by example – Together Everyone Achieves More!