It might surprise you to know that a good salary is no longer the number one factor that employees value in the workplace. 

For decades, some businesses have believed that heavy workloads and long hours are justifiable, as long as they pay their employees a decent salary. However, in this modern fast-paced world, working a job you hate because of money is not something most working professionals will tolerate. 

Research conducted by Lasalle Network found that there were other factors that tempt employees to change their job. To keep and attract the best talent, companies need to offer more than just a big paycheck. So what things do employees value more than a competitive salary?

Company culture

If a business is on the same wavelength as its workforce, it can be a great motivator in improving work efficiency. Positive attitudes, transparent relationships and respect can build a stronger connection between employees and their employer.

On the other hand, employees won’t stick around in a business with a toxic environment. If workers cannot fit in with their company’s ethos or colleagues, it can have disastrous consequences on their productivity. Similarly, it can even have an effect on their mental health!

A challenge

Employees today also value the opportunity to develop and grow in a job role. Work is a place that most seek to learn new skills, stretch their potential and help to become a better version of themselves.

If employees are stuck doing the same mundane tasks every day, with no opportunity to develop or grow, they’ll start to look elsewhere for work. After all, no-one wants to be stuck in a ‘dead-end’ job for the rest of their career!

Meaningful work

Working in a job with a good salary means nothing unless it corresponds with your individual values and interests. Employees want to believe that the work they’re doing has a greater purpose in life, and therefore want to believe in the company they work for.

According to psychologist Fredrick Herzberg, workers seek fulfilment based on needs such as recognition, achievement, responsibility and the nature of the work itself. Other aspects, such as pay and good working conditions, come after.

Visibility

Nothing demotivates an employee more than not getting the recognition they deserve at work. A good CEO or manager will go the extra mile to make sure every one of their workers is valued and praised for the work they do. They can’t do that by sitting in their office all day away from the rest of the workforce!

Employees want to see recognition for an outstanding performance from senior management and to feel like they can connect with them on a personal level. CEOs and managers that make time to talk to their employees will help them to feel valued and appreciated.

Creative perks

The ability to achieve a work-life balance is becoming increasingly difficult in today’s fast-paced world, so it’s no surprise that many workers look for a job that respects that balance.

Most companies and CEOs understand that a happy workforce is a productive workforce. Offering perks such as flexible hours, extra holidays or even free fruit, will add to an employee’s work-life balance and career advancement. It’s the little things that make a difference!

Do you value any these things over a good salary? Maybe there are other rewards or perks that you look for when searching for a new job? Let us know your opinions using #CordantLovesPeople on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or Instagram.