New research from Principal finds workplace benefits have become the clearest signal of whether an employer truly supports its people.
Benefits have become the clearest signal of whether an employer truly supports its people, with many employees saying the strongest proof of company values shows up in the benefits they offer. What employees receive and how they’re treated matters much more than what they’re told. And when benefits are aligned to their life stages and communicated clearly, employees feel a stronger sense of belonging and loyalty.
“Which of the following do you think best demonstrates a company’s commitment to core values (like honesty, fairness, and respect)?”
- The types of benefits a company offers: 23%
- Statements made to employees by leaders about mission and culture: 16%
- How much a company pays its employees: 16%
- How managers handle difficult conversations: 16%
- How the company communicates about pay and benefits: 13%
- HR policies and handbooks that define the rules: 11%
- Other: 5%
- Access to paid family care options: 20% more loyal
- Access to retirement benefits: 22% more loyal
- Access to health and wellness benefits: 22% more loyal
- Access to work freebies (like free food in the office or an internet stipend for remote workers): 18% more loyal
- Access to generous time off policies: 17% more loyal
- Access to professional connection opportunities: 16% more loyal
“Tailored benefits are one of the strongest, most tangible expressions of an employer’s values. When employees see that their company invests in their financial security, their family’s well-being, and the unique needs of their life stage, trust deepens and loyalty rises.”
Kara Hoogensen ,SVP and head of workplace benefits, Principal®
For a complete view of the data and perspectives behind these insights, download the
