The way we work has changed forever, and so have the perks we expect from our jobs. Thanks to the rise of remote work, employee benefits are getting a major makeover. In fact, a Gallup survey found that 8 in 10 people now work hybrid or fully remote jobs. This shift has pushed employers to think beyond the usual perks to attract and keep top talent in today’s new world of work.
Out With the Old, In With the New
Working from home used to be the dream perk—now, it’s just another Tuesday. The latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that fully remote work has stayed about the same since 2022. However, hybrid work—where people split their time between home and the office—has been steadily increasing. In fact, as of December 2023, more people are working hybrid schedules than fully remote ones. As remote work becomes the norm, companies are realizing that old-school perks like breakroom snacks or on-site gyms aren’t cutting it anymore.
Instead, companies are getting creative. Think wellness stipends that employees can use on gym memberships, home exercise gear, or even meditation apps. These flexible benefits are a win-win for remote workers and employers alike.
Helping Remote Workers Thrive at Home
Setting up a productive home office isn’t cheap, and employees need more than a desk in the corner of their living room. That’s why many companies now offer home office stipends to help remote employees buy ergonomic chairs, standing desks, or even better lighting.
And it’s not just about the furniture. Companies are also stepping up with technology support—paying for high-speed internet, mobile devices, and technical help so remote workers can stay connected without the headaches.
Supporting Mental Health and Balance
Working from home can feel freeing, but it can also get lonely. That’s why mental health benefits have become a top priority for many companies. Traditional Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) are getting upgrades with digital counseling platforms and virtual therapy options.
On top of that, flexible schedules are helping remote workers find balance. Some companies are even organizing virtual team-building events or covering memberships to coworking spaces for employees who need a change of scenery.
Career Growth Without the Commute
Just because employees are remote doesn’t mean they should miss out on growth opportunities. Forward-thinking companies are retooling their professional development programs with online courses, virtual conferences, and mentorship programs designed for remote teams.
Some are even offering training specifically for remote work skills—like how to ace virtual collaboration and digital communication. It’s about making sure career growth is always on the table, no matter where the table is.
Making Every Dollar Count
Remote work benefits don’t have to break the bank. In fact, companies are saving money by cutting back on office perks and redirecting those funds toward benefits that remote workers truly value. Think better health insurance contributions, student loan assistance, or enhanced retirement matching.
The secret? Regular check-ins. Smart companies survey their employees to find out what perks matter most, then offer customizable benefits that work for everyone.
What’s Next for Remote Work Benefits?
As remote work continues to evolve, so will the benefits. Imagine perks like travel stipends for employees who want to work from different locations or allowances to join local professional groups in their area.
Of course, managing remote benefits comes with its own challenges. Employers need the right tools to keep it all running smoothly. A modern HR platform makes it easy to handle everything from benefits administration to compliance, ensuring remote employees can access the perks they deserve.
How Commonwealth Payroll & HR Can Help
Navigating the world of remote benefits doesn’t have to be complicated. At Commonwealth Payroll & HR, we’ve got the tools and expertise to help you design a benefits package that works for your remote workforce. From streamlining administration to ensuring compliance, we’ll help you keep your team happy and supported—no matter where they work. Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn how we can make managing remote benefits a breeze.
TOP