Healthcare

Employee Benefit Packages: The Permanent Employee’s Guide

Employee navigating their employee benefits package
Madison Schacht headshot.
Madison Schacht
Manager of Talent Acquisition
October 28, 2024
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Most of us know the exciting and nerve-wracking experience of landing a new job. From acing the interview to negotiating your salary, there are many things to consider during the job search process.

One area of the job search process that is often overlooked, but equally important, are your employee benefits. 

Today, we’re here to help you understand the world of benefits as a permanent employee so you can maximize them to your advantage.

The Benefits You Should Ask About 

Did you know that a study by SHRM found that 60% of employees feel their benefits are a large contributor to their overall job satisfaction?

Understanding the benefits offered by a potential employer is not only key to maximizing your total compensation package, but can also lead to increased job satisfaction. 

Let’s explore the essential benefits you should be asking about: 

Health Insurance

Disgruntled Male employee confused by their health insurance benefits

Having health insurance is like having a safety net for unexpected medical expenses. Don’t be shy about asking your potential employer (at the right time, of course) about their health insurance coverage. Dive into the details about premiums, coverage options, and any limitations that may affect your peace of mind. 

You know the saying, “Health is wealth?” Well, when you understand your health insurance benefits, you’re not only protecting your physical well-being – you’re also preserving your financial stability. 

By knowing the extent of your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses, you can feel confident and prepared for any health-related situations life throws at you. 

401K and Employer Matching

Planning for the future is important, and a 401K plays a role in that. 

What’s a 401K? Think of it as a savings account specifically for retirement that is provided by your employer. You put a portion of your paycheck into this account, and sometimes your employer will add extra money to help it grow – that’s what we call the “employer match.” 

A 401K and employer matching can help you build a solid financial foundation. Ask about the company’s 401K and contribution policy, and any other retirement benefits they offer so you don’t leave any money on the table.

Paid Time Off

Work-life balance is essential to your well-being, and paid time off (PTO) often helps people achieve work-life balance. 

To maximize your PTO so it works for your personal needs and preferences, it’s crucial to understand how it accrues, any potential restrictions, and whether it rolls over from year to year.

By familiarizing yourself with these details, you can plan to relax and recharge and get paid while doing it.

Flexible Scheduling

Frustrated employee exhausted by their in-office work

In the year 2024, the technology to allow for flexible scheduling is available – and it’s a perk that can make or break a new role for many people.

In a study by Shiftboard, 51% of Millennial workers and 55% of Gen Z individuals value having the option of flexible scheduling.

It’s a benefit known to transform job satisfaction, increase mental wellbeing, and even improve productivity. Whether it’s being able to start and end your workday at times that work best for you, having the option to work from the comfort of your own home, or having access to resources that promote a healthier lifestyle, understanding your flex scheduling benefits – and advocating for them – is important.

Things to Consider As You Evaluate Your Benefits

Female employee taking advantage of her flexible work benefits and working from home

By understanding your benefits, you can gain a clearer picture of what is being offered to you and how it aligns with your personal and professional needs. 

Diving deep into what matters to you will not only help you make informed decisions but also empower you to maximize the benefits available to you.

Let’s walk through some key points to consider:

What Matters to You

Take a moment to think about what matters most to you when it comes to your benefits. 

Maybe health coverage is your top priority, adding another layer of protection for you and your family when it comes to medical needs. Or perhaps you place a high value on financial perks, like retirement savings options or tuition reimbursement. 

Figure out what resonates most with you, and you’ll be better equipped to navigate your benefits and make choices that set you up for success and honor your preferences. 

The Hidden Costs Associated with Your Benefits

It’s important to peel back the layers and know the full picture when considering your benefits.

It may not feel glamorous to dive into the details of your deductibles, copays, and any other out-of-pocket expenses, but these hidden costs can affect your financial stability and wellbeing in the long run. 

Understanding how it all works helps ensure that the benefits you choose truly enhance your overall financial well-being. Don’t always take what seems shiny and attractive at face value – get down to the nitty-gritty details to make informed decisions that align with your goals.

Long-Term Goals

Look at your benefits package as a support system, a resource that can propel your career development and success forward. 

Whether it’s paving the way for further education, aiding in retirement planning, or providing resources for health and wellness, understanding how these benefits can contribute to your journey will help you make the best choices for you.

Questions to Ask to Better Understand Your Benefits

Female employee asking HR benefit package related questions

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the wealth of information surrounding your benefits package, there are a few targeted questions you can begin to understand the complexities and gain clarity on what’s available to you.

Let’s dive into what those pointed questions could look like: 

Is there an insurance waiting period?

Be aware that some benefits may have a waiting period before you become eligible. Ask about any waiting periods and when you can expect to start receiving the benefits.

What are your sick time and PTO policies?

Understand how your sick time and PTO policies work, including when PTO begins to accrue, how much you can accrue over time, and any potential restrictions.

Are there any performance-based incentives?

Ask about any incentives or bonuses tied to performance to understand how your efforts can be rewarded beyond your base salary.

Best Practices When Asking About Employee Benefits

Employee uses discretion and best practices as it pertains to asking about benefits in an interview

It’s assumed you’re curious about the perks that come with a new job or promotion, but it’s important to approach the conversation thoughtfully, so you’re still operating with professionalism and tact.

Let’s dive into the do’s and don’ts when it comes to asking about your benefits and compensation package, so you understand what’s available to you and still build positive rapport with your employer (or potential employer)! 

Do Your Research

Take the time to research the company and its benefits before your interview. If the initial benefits information is available on their website or in the job description, use that as a starting point for more in-depth questions during your interview, or as your deciding factor in choosing when to ask your benefits-related questions. 

Taking the initiative to research and understand the company in advance can give you a competitive edge and ensure that you approach the topic strategically and confidently.

Wait Until the Final Interview Stage

As you progress through the interview process, it’s crucial to strike a balance when it comes to discussing benefits. While gathering general information about benefits early on is important for your decision-making process, saving the more detailed questions for the final stages of the interview shows your interest in the role – beyond the benefits.

Save your detailed benefit questions for the final interview stages, so you can convey professionalism, attentiveness, and sincere excitement in the job opportunity.

Use Broad Questions to Start the Conversation

Initiating the benefits discussion with a broad question like, “Can you tell me more about the total compensation package offered?” is a strategic approach to gaining more understanding of the benefits available.

This question sets the tone for a conversation that goes beyond just salary figures, and invites the interviewer to dig into each of the job’s perks and benefits. By keeping your initial question broad,  you lay the groundwork for a more detailed conversation that can help you make a well-informed decision about the role.

How That’s Good HR Can Help

At That’s Good HR, we understand that the world of employee benefits as a permanent employee can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. 

Our team is here to simplify that process for you! We not only match you with jobs that fit your skills and aspirations, but can also help you understand and negotiate the benefits that matter most to you.

Ready to take control of your job search? Let us help you find a permanent position that checks all the boxes — including the benefits that will keep you happy and healthy! Contact That’s Good HR  to get started on your journey to a rewarding career today. 

HR Insights

Maximize Happiness in the Workplace: A Guide to Employee Benefits

Smiling happy male employee experiencing increased job satisfaction due to his employee benefits
Greta Cline, CFO
Greta Cline
Partner, CFO/COO
October 15, 2024
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Today, we’re tackling a topic that doesn’t always spark immediate excitement: employee benefit packages. 

Navigating the world of benefits can be a daunting task, whether that’s Health Insurance, PTO, a 401K contribution, or a flexible work arrangement.

Regardless of what your team looks like, big or small, remote or in-office, employee benefits deserve your attention, and doing it right can be life-changing for your employees. 

Here’s what you need to know:

How + Why Benefits are Life-Changing

Fulfilled, happy, and smiling male employee

People spend a significant chunk of their lives at work, and investing in the health and happiness of your employees is not only the right thing to do – it also produces a ripple effect that can positively impact your entire organization.

Positive Impact on Employee Wellness

When you provide health and wellness benefits, you contribute to the physical and mental well-being of your employees by making sure they can enjoy a healthy lifestyle with fewer financial barriers.

What may look like “just health insurance” to one person, may be someone else’s ability to start family planning, undergo an important medical procedure, or get the professional mental health support they need – all of which can improve someone’s quality of life. 

Increased Employee Morale

Happy female employee smiles with high morale


When employees feel that their employer cares about their growth and well-being, it creates a sense of dedication that often boosts employee morale. 

A study by SHRM showed that 92% of employees say their paid time off affects their overall job satisfaction.

Long story short: increased job satisfaction = increased morale.

When you offer a benefits package that truly resonates with your employees, you’re not just supporting the work they do—you’re showing that you value them as people. It’s a win-win, where they feel cared for on a personal level, and that’s the foundation of a great working relationship.

Fair Pay

There’s a reason that most employees want to learn more about your benefits package before accepting a new position. In fact, a 2021 Glassdoor survey found that 60% of people strongly consider the company’s employee benefits before accepting a job offer. 

Benefits clearly play a role in the decision-making process. Many professionals have been in the workforce long enough to know the role benefits play in their overall job satisfaction and well-being. 

This affirms what we’ve long known: a solid employee benefits package is a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent.

Advantages of Employee Benefits for Organizations

A group of employees who have experienced the advantage of great employee benefits

Competitive benefits aren’t just in the best interest of your employees. These benefit packages play a significant role in shaping the overall success and reputation of your entire organization. 

Here’s how 👇🏼

Higher Employee Retention Rates

Investing in your employees’ skills and well-being makes them more likely to stay with your company for the long haul. 

Providing great benefits helps create an environment where employees feel invested in the success of the company. For example, a survey by United Insurance revealed that 78% of employees were drawn to stay at a company because of their benefits. Not to mention, when an employee leaves your organization, the costs quickly add up between recruitment, onboarding, training, and productivity losses.

In many cases, it can be cheaper to invest in your employee benefits package than it is to lose your top talent to a company that is.

Increased Employee Productivity

When employees have peace of mind knowing their health, financial, and personal needs are taken care of, they are more likely to bring their A-game to the workplace.

Oxford University’s deep dive into happiness and productivity reveals that happy employees are 13% more productive than unhappy employees. 

By nurturing employee well-being and happiness, you’re giving your company the chance to achieve the productivity that can drive your business toward growth.

Want to empower your team to bring their best selves to work every day? Give them the tools to do so. 

Healthy Workplace Culture

A workplace full of people who have opportunities to be happy and healthy creates an overall positive atmosphere. 

And when employees feel valued not just for their work, but for who they are, they’re more likely to foster great teamwork and build positive relationships with their colleagues. 

As a result, your workplace culture becomes one where your team feels motivated, connected, and inspired to do their best.

How to Manage Employee Benefits

That's Good HR managing employee benefits

Making sense of employee benefits can be daunting, but there are a few things you can do to provide better support for your employees and alleviate your mental load. 

Understand Your Employees’ Needs

It’s simple really. Talk to your employees to better understand what kind of benefits would be most valuable to them. By tailoring your benefits to the team’s long-term goals and desires, you can be sure that your benefits truly serve their purpose. 

Prioritize the Benefits that Matter Most

Of course, health insurance is crucial, but consider expanding your offerings to also include mental health support, wellness programs, or flexible work arrangements. Remember: your benefits don’t have to be costly to be valuable to your team. 

Communicate Benefits Effectively

It’s not enough to provide great benefits. It’s good corporate stewardship to make your employees aware of what is available to them. Clearly communicate the full extent of the benefits you offer, how to access them, and the value they provide.

Leave the Employee Benefits to Us

At That’s Good HR, we understand the challenges that come with managing employee benefits. Our team can work with you to find a benefits package that not only meets legal requirements but truly supports your employees. 

Make a positive impact on the lives of your employees and the success of your organization. Contact That’s Good HR today to learn more about how we can help.

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