Financial and HR directors in UK organisations recognise that an appropriate mix of flexible benefits, which include flexible working arrangements, wellbeing initiatives and long-term financial protection, can boost productivity and wellbeing as well as retain employees, according to research by Unum, the financial protection insurance firm.
The survey, which had 1,150 respondents, found that 62% believe employee benefits have become important in helping to recruit staff.
The research also found:
- 47% of respondents identified improving productivity as a major advantage of a benefits package.
- 84% of respondents thought that managing absence is a priority for their organisation.
Linda Smith (pictured), HR director at Unum, said: “It is encouraging that these findings show that decisionmakers clearly understand the benefits of offering a comprehensive reward package.
“By offering an appropriate mix of benefits, employers can boost productivity, develop an effective recruitment and retention strategy, and minimise the disruption and cost of staff absence.
“With many organisations currently planning for their staging dates for auto-enrolment, there is a real opportunity for a review of reward packages.”
