In an increasingly competitive job market, attracting and retaining talented employees who are willing to go the extra mile is of paramount importance. HR departments are continuously exploring new ways to ensure those who work long hours feel valued and cared for. 

The implementation of innovative perks can be a powerful tool in achieving this goal. Ranging from flexible hours to remote work options, these benefits address the needs of late workers.

Read on to explore ten such perks that could be a game changer for you or your team.

perks hr could offer employees
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10 Perks HR Could Offer Employees Who Work Long Hours

Working long hours can be demanding. Yet, incorporating strategic perks, like the ones mentioned in this article, can help employees manage their time better and feel more valued.

1. Flexible Hours

Having flexible hours is a growing trend among organizations conscious of work-life balance. This perk grants employees more control over their schedules. The company stipulates core hours when the employee’s presence is necessary but allows flexibility at other times. 

Employees could start early or wrap up late depending on their personal commitments and productivity peak times. This freedom relieves stress and elevates feelings of trust.

2. Meal Kits Delivery Services

Signing up your workers to a meal kit delivery service is an innovative perk that can be a real game-changer for employees working long hours. After a demanding day at work, instead of stressing about what to cook, your employees could come home to a personalized meal kit. 

Companies like HelloFresh specialize in custom meal kits, offering a diverse menu that caters to different dietary needs and preferences. Employees can choose their own kit every month.

3. Remote Working Opportunities

Offered by forward-thinking companies, remote work opportunities provide employees who work long hours the option to occasionally telecommute. With a decrease in commuting time and the comfort of a familiar environment, working remotely tends to increase productivity for many. 

Additionally, it demonstrates trust in employees’ ability to manage their workload outside the traditional office setup. Even better, it allows you more personal freedom to balance work.

4. Employee Wellness Programs

Employee wellness programs are an HR perk with two-fold benefits. For the employee, it offers resources to help manage stress, improve health, and enhance life quality. This could feature anything from gym memberships to onsite health services or even mental wellness support. 

As an employer, providing such programs shows a commitment to employee well-being while also recognizing that a healthier workforce is more productive and engaged.

5. Additional PTO

Additional PTO, or Paid Time Off, is a special perk that can profoundly benefit employees. For every hour or days worked beyond standard expectations, additional days off are granted. This allowance signals to employees that their dedication and overtime are greatly appreciated. And since 31% of employees don’t receive PTO, offering this benefit could be a game-changer. 

More importantly, it provides an opportunity for those working extended periods to recharge and unwind, contributing toward maintaining their well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction.

6. Professional Development Opportunities

Furthering your career development can serve as a morale booster for those working long hours. Such programs offer employees the chance to expand their knowledge base.

Not only does this perk nurture personal growth, but it also directly contributes to job performance, making you a more valuable asset to the company. Creating a culture of continuous learning is an excellent strategy for HR looking to retain dedicated talent.

7. Employee Assistance Program

An employee assistance program (EAP) is a key HR perk, particularly for those who work long hours. EAPs typically offer various services, including mental health counseling, financial advising, and legal assistance. This wide range of support can be crucial to relieving stress

Not only that, but a high-quality EAP demonstrates the company’s commitment to the employee’s well-being, making them feel valued and cared for beyond just being a worker.

8. On-Site Childcare Services

Removing the hassle of finding daycare is a significant destresser. Knowing that your child is safe and well taken care of in a nearby daycare center brings peace of mind during the workday. Offering this perk can even save working parents $37 billion a year in lost income

This service reflects a company’s empathy toward its employees’ personal situations while also promoting work-life harmony. Having such support on hand can greatly enhance job satisfaction.

9. Public Recognition

Public recognition is an inexpensive yet highly impactful perk that HR could offer employees. This can be as simple as acknowledging hard work during team meetings or as elaborate as annual recognition awards. Such gestures go a long way in making employees feel appreciated. 

Public recognition not only raises individual morale but can also inspire others in the team to strive for similar commendation, fostering a culture of excellence within the organization.

10. Company Retreats or Team Building Activities

Retreats and team-building activities are effective stress-busters and relationship-enhancers for employees working long hours. With work-related pressures put aside momentarily, these planned activities can foster a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among team members. 

This communal experience can help employees feel more connected to their colleagues and the organization as a whole, making those extra hours at work more fulfilling. 

In Conclusion 

Now that you’ve learned about some amazing perks HR could offer employees who consistently put in long hours, it’s time to take action. If you’re an employer, consider how these benefits could improve your team’s morale and productivity. If you’re an employee, don’t hesitate to advocate for the perks that would make your extra hours more balanced and rewarding.