15 Employee Benefits Examples You Should Negotiate to Boost Your Career in 2025
In an attempt to attract and retain the top talent, employees offer not only a competitive salary, but also various benefits and perks. And the latter has increasing importance – according to the survey, 60% of people see benefits as a major factor for accepting a job offer. Although not all employers can afford the benefits similar to those offered by Google or Amazon, certain job flexibility and more days off are something that nearly any employer can provide. Employee benefits example expands beyond health benefits, disability insurance, retirement plans, or tuition reimbursement. Your workplace incentives may include unique employee benefits offerings! By the end of this article, you will have full information about benefit package negotiation tips!
If you actively look for a job, you'll find today's list of top job perks helpful.Whereas not all employers are willing to offer a higher salary, you can negotiate attractive perks instead. And our professional resume service will inform which benefits to ask for in the first place. Wondering which employee perks you should prioritize? Continue reading, and you will learn everything you need to know about employee benefits package deals!
What Are Employee Benefits?
What are employee benefits? When a company hires you, in addition to financial compensation, you can count on a number of additional benefits that eligible employees can take advantage of. The types of employee benefits are very diverse. Some examples of employee perks include huge employee discounts, employee assistance programs, mental health benefits, or even paid time for childcare or elderly care. Many employers offer very generous benefits to enhance employee satisfaction!
- Fringe benefits - non-wage compensations provided to employees in addition to their regular salary. These can include company car or transportation allowance, paid holidays and vacation time, meals or meal vouchers, or gym memberships. Fringe benefits aim to improve work-life balance, job satisfaction, and employee retention.
- Financial benefits - directly impact an employee’s financial well-being beyond their base salary. Examples include retirement plans (e.g., 401(k), pension schemes), bonuses and profit-sharing, stock options or equity, and life insurance. These benefits are attractive to candidates who prioritize long-term financial security and performance-based incentives.
- Healthcare perks - designed to support the physical and mental well-being of employees. Common offerings include medical insurance (covering doctor visits, hospitalization, etc.), dental and vision insurance, mental health support (therapy, counseling services), and health savings accounts (HSAs). Such medical benefits and perks are increasingly important to employees seeking comprehensive support for their overall health.
These are standard staff incentives, though not all employers provide them. For example, wellness benefits are not as common as disability benefits. We encourage employees to ask about the benefits they are most interested in during the interview.
Top Employee Benefits Examples in 2025
Although not all companies offer meals from an on-site chef or free massage, they typically offer a variety of perks to attract the best professionals. In particular, here are the top benefits according to Forbes and Benefitnews.com. Check them out and prepare to negotiate during your next interview:
1. Repayment of student loans
Having graduated from the university, students receive not only the desired degree, but also have to deal with massive student debts. In this situation, employers who are willing to assist with debt repayment, instantly become the top consideration for young and promising professionals. However, the number of employers providing this benefit leaves much to be desired – only 4% of employers offer student loan repayment.
2. Paid parental leave
The number of employers who offer paid maternity and paternity leaves is constantly growing since it's one of the most in-demand benefits. Depending on the company, new parents can receive from 1-2 months to 1 year to take care of the newborn child. Some companies also offer counseling to help the employee re-enter the workforce after a long break.
3. Remote work opportunity
In the gig economy, remote working is no longer a luxury. That's why an increasing number of employers offer the benefits of working remotely one day a week or more. This practice keeps the staff involved in the office life and allows work from a convenient place from time to time. If your type of job doesn't require being in the office all the time, the employer will likely to provide you a few remote working days, especially considering that it won't cost them any extra money.
4. Flexible hours
Along with telecommuting, working flexible hours is gaining popularity. This advantage allows people to take care of personal matters during business hours. Thus, people can get other important things done which often results in increased productivity. Working flexible hours often goes hand in hand with telecommuting, although some companies allow a flexible schedule in the office. If you are yet to compose a winning resume, make sure to include the important phrases and words for resume.
5. Professional development benefits
Like many other ambitious professionals, you most likely want a job that will help you advance professional skills. So, ask about professional development opportunities during the interview. Paid corporate training, language classes, compensation for professional certification or even a degree are beneficial not only for you as a professional but to the employer either as they get the increase of performance.
6. More vacation time
Most of the top valued employee perks have to do with time away from work. People strive for healthy work-life balance, so more and more employees would like to enjoy more time off. Some companies allow their employees to manage the vacation time on their own – surprisingly, this results in greater productivity. In other organization this benefit is provided in the form of the sabbatical leave after a few years in the company.
7. Gym membership
Membership in a gym or an onsite gym is a frequently offered benefit, and employees consider it important. For people who exercise, it helps minimize sports expenses. Employees who exercise regularly are healthier, prevent chronic illnesses and catch colds less frequently than those who don't – so employers benefit from this perk as well. Thus, if you haven't exercised before, it's about time to begin.
8. Vision/dental insurance
Good health insurance is an important factor for accepting a job offer. If you don't have to worry about the bills after seeing a doctor, you'll likely work more productively and focus on work solely rather than seek the opportunities to earn some extra money. Some employers also offer insurance for kids or even pets, so it's a good idea to ask about these options as well.
9. Paid day care services
Good daycare centers are costly. Thus, employers who offer to compensate for day care services in full or partially have every chance to attract employees with kids. If you're a parent, raise this point when negotiating benefits and perks as it can potentially save you thousands of dollars. Moreover, employers might also offer other benefits related to children.
10. Relocation assistance
Professionals who are willing to relocate for a job often seek companies that provide relocation assistance. Indeed, moving house is both difficult and costly, so why not benefit from the help of an employer who has dealt with a similar situation many times? Relocation assistance typically includes covering travel expenses, temporary lodging, help with buying and selling a house and, if you are an international specialist, visa and work permit. If you still don't have a detailed career plan, check out the major arguments for career planning.
11. Free meals and healthy snacks
Although this benefit itself is too insignificant to motivate the employee to choose a specific company, it definitely makes working there more pleasant. Free coffee, fresh meals, healthy snacks and sweets are considered as a must by many employees. The top companies treat their staff with versatile meals that many restaurants would envy.
12. Pet-friendly office
It's a proven fact that animals make us happier, so many people seek the opportunities to bring their pets to the office. According to research, people have a stronger connection to employers with pet-friendly policy. And the employers respond to this trend by allowing employees bring their pets. Some companies offer office pets which positively affect the mood and productivity either.
13. Paid volunteer hours
It would be great to get paid for volunteering, wouldn't it? Well, it's a reality with some employers. Companies like Salesforce offer several paid days of volunteering time a year so you can help the organization of your choice. Some employers also offer a certain amount of money to donate for charity on your behalf.
14. Commuting benefits
Some people would also like to get transportation expenses covered in any form. Companies respond to this demand in the form of work transit, bicycling and parking expenses. Although this benefit isn't a top consideration on its own, it definitely adds value for employees who find it expensive to get to work every day.
15. Travel stipend
This benefit quite rare, but employees who have love for traveling will find it fascinating. Companies like Airbnb offer travel stipend for accommodation, discounts for booking or travel expenses reimbursement. Some companies cover accommodation only whereas the others don't have such limitations. And, given how much a good vacation can cost, this compensation is a serious incentive.
Unique and Creative Employee Benefits
Now let's take a look at unique employee benefits for 2025. Flexible work arrangements or dental and vision coverage are not so unique in today's workplace. So, if you are looking for a special workplace as an employee or want to create a unique atmosphere as an employer, here are several creative employee benefits ideas:
- Pet-friendly office - you can bring your own pet on a certain day of the week or month. It helps create a positive atmosphere, even though productivity is likely to drop on that day due to the cuteness overload.
- Paid volunteer hours - it is a strong message to the local community and employees. Companies that compensate for volunteering and encourage such initiatives have a positive reputation and loyal customers.
- Travel stipdent - you get your travel expenses covered even if your job is not directly correlated with using transportation to get your job done.
While making the decision regarding employment, you should pay attention to such monetary and non-monetary employee benefits.
Employee Benefits to Negotiate During Interview
It is not enough to know what you want, it is necessary to find the right time and the right words to voice your preferences. Here is the practical guide on employee benefits to negotiate.
Interview benefits checklist:
- Do Your Homework First
Research the company’s typical benefits offerings and industry standards. Know which perks (e.g., remote work, bonuses, extra PTO) are commonly negotiable. This helps you make informed, realistic requests and shows you’ve come prepared. Job benefits to negotiate with the employer should be realistic. - Time It Right
Wait until you've received a job offer or are in the final stages of the interview before discussing benefits. Focus first on demonstrating your value. Once the employer is sold on your fit, they’ll be more flexible in tailoring the benefits package. The perks to negotiate for higher job satisfaction should not be voiced during the first minute of the interview! - Be Specific and Prioritize
Clearly communicate which benefits matter most to you—whether it's flexible hours, relocation support, or additional healthcare coverage. Prioritize your requests so you can negotiate strategically without overwhelming the employer. Be professional, polite, and willing to compromise.
Best Employee Benefits for Job Seekers
Bonuses do have a direct and immediate impact on your resume and professional image. The awareness of employee benefits for job seekers implies you know your worth. The potential employer who wants to hire you because of your experience and expertise will be ready to meet your special requirements and provide extra coverage. Yet, resume boosting employee benefits should be very carefully written in your resume. You want to mention your career-enhancing employee benefits, and yet not scare off the potential employers who may perceive your list of expectations are too arrogant and excessive. It is better to rely on professional assistance to handle this matter properly.
Small Business Employee Benefits
If you are looking for employment with a small company, you should be realistic in your expectations. Most employers will not be ready to spend thousands of dollars in addition to your salary. A comprehensive benefits package is typically rather unimpressive among small companies. Employee benefits small businesses can offer may include:
- Flexible Working Hours
- Remote Work Options
- Professional Development Stipend
- Extra Paid Time Off
- Performance Bonuses
These examples of benefits to ask for in small companies are not inclusive and definitely not offered by all organizations, but that is usually what you can expect in a small company.
Health and Wellness Employee Benefits
What about health and wellness benefits? Let's take a look at health insurance benefits examples:
- Gym membership as employee benefit - A gym membership benefit allows employees free or discounted access to fitness facilities, encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle.
- Dental and vision insurance - Dental and vision insurance covers routine check-ups, corrective treatments, and preventative care related to oral and eye health. These benefits help employees manage out-of-pocket expenses for essential services.
- Wellness programs for employees - Wellness programs are employer-sponsored initiatives that promote healthier habits through activities like health screenings, mental health resources, smoking cessation, and nutrition counseling.
Employee Benefits That Support Work-Life Balance
If you are looking for employment where work-life balance initiatives are reinforced, check if the job offer implies the following:
- Flexible working hours benefits - Flexible working hours allow employees to adjust their start and end times based on personal needs or peak productivity. This benefit supports work-life balance, reduces stress, and can lead to increased job satisfaction and retention.
- Remote work benefits - Remote work benefits give employees the option to perform their job duties from home or another off-site location. This flexibility can improve productivity, reduce commuting time and costs, and enhance overall employee well-being.
- Telecommuting benefits - Telecommuting allows employees to work outside the traditional office environment, often using digital tools to stay connected. It offers greater autonomy, helps reduce overhead costs for employers, and is especially valuable for attracting talent from diverse geographic areas.
Get a resume that will benefit your career
Do you feel inspired by this list and can't wait to find an employer who offers all these lucrative perks? To compete for the job with the best companies, you'll need a really shiny resume that is focused on your accomplishments. If your resume doesn't land you many interviews, why not receive professional help?
You can take advantage of corporate benefits packages and employer-provided perks when you have a strong resume and know how and when to ask for bonuses even before you are hired. Benefit negotiation strategies discussed in this article are helpful, yet the first step is crafting a strong resume. We can help with this task!
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