Not long ago, free coffee in the break room and a decent health plan were enough to keep most employees happy. But younger workers are asking for a lot more, and, actually, they’re right. After surveying dozens of young workers, we’ve compiled a wish list. So here are 14 benefits younger employees expect from their employers.
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Meeting-free Fridays
The weekends are sacred for a lot of younger employees. Rather than spend Fridays hopping from Zoom meeting to Zoom meeting, they’d rather use that time to tie up loose ends and plan for the week ahead. Cutting out meetings altogether gives people the time and space to get things done without interruption.
Four-day workweeks
This one’s not just a TikTok trend; it’s a real expectation now. A lot of young employees feel they can get the same work done in four days while also enjoying a three-day weekend. It’s also a move toward expecting employees to work smarter, not just clock a certain number of hours.
Home office stipends
Working from a laptop at the kitchen table is a thing of the past. The younger generation wants stipends to ensure working from home is comfortable and productive. It can include a comfy chair, an ergonomic desk setup, or noise-cancelling headphones.
“Work-from-anywhere” months
Some employers have allowed employees to check in from a different city or country for a few weeks out of the year. Many younger employees appreciate the opportunity to travel without dipping into their vacation allotment. It’s also a way for the company to show that it trusts its employees to work independently.
Therapy apps and access in health plans
Younger employees expect mental health care to be built into their benefits. That means access to free or discounted therapy sessions and mental health care providers, as well as wellness apps for meditation or mindfulness.
Student loan repayment matching
Given the massive increase in student loan debt, it’s no surprise that younger employees will now ask for student loan repayment matching, similar to retirement account matching. This helps lower the balance of their loans and shows that the employer understands their financial situation and appreciates their contribution to the company.
Fertility and family planning benefits
Younger employees want employers to cover or at least assist with their fertility or family planning-related procedures or services. This includes things like egg freezing, IVF, or adoption procedures. Employers offering such benefits are now seen as more progressive and understanding.
Sabbaticals after a few years
The idea of waiting decades for a break doesn’t fly anymore. More young employees expect the option for a paid month off after just a few years with a company. It’s a way to recharge without quitting altogether.
Climate-friendly perks
Younger workers expect companies to show their environmental support isn’t just lip service. That includes perks like free public transit passes or e-bike subsidies or cash incentives to go car-free.
Transparent promotion timelines
The “work hard and we’ll see” approach isn’t enough anymore. Younger employees want written timelines for when and how they might be able to get a promotion. It makes the potential career path seem less mysterious and more intentional.
Menstrual and menopause leave
These days, it’s hard to get away with ignoring the facts and realities of menstruation or menopause in the workplace. Younger employees will expect some paid leave for any menstrual or menopause-related symptoms. This is a small policy change but it shows that employer values and appreciates their health and well-being.
Remote co-working memberships
Co-working spaces give remote employees a change of scenery from home or their local coffee shop. If a company covers the cost of a local co-working space or membership, employees have more flexibility to work where they want without the long commute.
No after-hours messaging
The new norm is expecting a respectful amount of work-life balance from employers. Younger employees expect their personal time to be honored, and that means no work messages at 9 p.m.
On-demand pay
Waiting two weeks for a paycheck is becoming a thing of the past. Employees at some companies have access to earned wages at any time through an app. On-demand pay can be especially helpful if an unexpected bill or expense comes up.
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