8 job benefits new recruits look for besides salary

When it comes to attracting top talent, offering a generous salary is no longer the only benefit new recruits value. For many, pay isn’t the top priority. Fair and competitive pay still matters, but it’s far from the only factor candidates consider when evaluating a job offer.

Understanding what motivates new recruits is essential for businesses looking to grow and succeed. Below, the UK’s leading company registration service, Rapid Formations, highlights 8 noteworthy benefits.

1. Flexible working arrangements

Many candidates now expect some level of flexibility in where and when they work. For working parents, carers, or those seeking a better work-life balance, flexible hours or the option to work from home can be a game-changer.

Flexible working benefits businesses, too. Employers gain access to a wider talent pool and often see improvements in productivity and staff retention. A forward-thinking approach to work arrangements shows new recruits that your company trusts and values its people.

2. Career development opportunities

Ambitious professionals want to know they’re investing in their future when joining a company. Access to training programmes, mentorship, training, and clear career progression paths are, therefore, significant motivators.

Upskilling staff also enhances your team’s capabilities and boosts morale and loyalty. Company-funded courses, in-house training, and access to learning materials are just a few career development initiatives that demonstrate long-term commitment to your employees.

3. A positive company culture

Culture is more than office perks or dress-down Fridays. It’s about creating a supportive, inclusive environment where people feel valued and heard. New recruits today prioritise companies with a strong sense of purpose and values that align with their own.

Transparent communication, recognition, and teamwork all contribute to a positive workplace culture. Startups and small businesses, in particular, have the unique advantage of shaping their culture from the ground up, which can be incredibly attractive to candidates looking to make a meaningful impact.

4. Well-being and mental health support

Employee well-being is vital for a healthy, productive workplace. New candidates expect employers to take mental health seriously, offering support programmes like counselling services and mental health leave.

A major benefit of looking after your team’s well-being is that it helps reduce absenteeism and burnout, meaning people are happier, healthier, and more engaged with their roles.

It also shows you care about your people as individuals, not just employees. Even small steps in this direction can make your business stand out as an attractive place to work.

5. Meaningful work and purpose

More and more job seekers are driven by more than just profit. They want to work for companies that are making a difference. For example, through social responsibility initiatives, sustainability efforts, or charitable commitments.

Highlighting your company’s impact and involving employees in wider projects can be a powerful way of attracting purpose-driven recruits.

6. Benefits packages

From enhanced holiday allowances to gym memberships, private healthcare, and cycle-to-work schemes, comprehensive benefits packages are increasingly considered standard.

The most attractive benefits are those that genuinely improve quality of life. These will differ between companies, so it’s worth asking your existing teams what they value most and tailoring your benefits package accordingly for new recruits.

Even small businesses with limited budgets can offer attractive perks by focusing on thoughtful, practical benefits.

7. Enhanced pension plans

In a climate of rising living costs, many job seekers are increasingly drawn to roles that offer enhanced pension plans. A strong pension scheme that allows employees to boost their payments or matched contributions above the minimum statutory amount can provide peace of mind and attract experienced professionals looking to plan ahead.

8. Subsidised travel

The daily commute can be a costly part of working life. Subsidised travel is a benefit that resonates with many job seekers, especially those working in London, where public transport is officially the most expensive in the world.

Subsidised travel can come in many forms, such as season ticket loans, travel discounts, or a salary sacrifice arrangement. This type of benefit can be an efficient and valued incentive, helping ease employees’ financial burden.

In summary

Salary will always play a role in job decisions, but it’s no longer the only, or even primary, motivator for many new recruits. Today’s job seekers are looking for roles that offer flexibility, purpose, and a path for growth within companies that genuinely care for their people.

If you run a small company where you might not be able to afford discounted travel or private healthcare, there are still numerous ways to attract candidates. Consider offering flexible working and forming a positive, healthy workplace culture to set your company apart.

If you’re in the process of setting up a new company or looking to expand your team, Rapid Formations is here to help. From expert advice to a full range of company registration services, their experts support thousands of UK businesses every year.