Startups offer innovative employee perks amid talent wars
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — In an era where major tech companies are scaling back perks and enforcing return-to-office mandates, smaller companies are seizing the opportunity to attract talent with innovative benefits packages.
From full-body MRI scans to “pawternity leave,” these organizations are redefining workplace perks to create more personalized and meaningful employee experiences.
At media company 1440, employees and their spouses receive fully covered preventive MRI scans worth $2,500 each. There are also unique additions like contributions to employees’ children’s college funds and remote work options.
“We actively look for our benefits to be the best in the world,” says Tim Huelskamp, 1440’s cofounder and CEO. The strategy appears to be working, with only one employee departure since the company’s founding in 2018.
Beyond traditional perks
Software company Pipedrive has introduced unique benefits like five days of “pawternity leave” for pet adoption and “compassionate leave” that covers everything from pet loss to relationship breakups.
“It’s about recognition that everyone’s situation is different,” Tanya Channing, Pipedrive’s chief people and culture officer, explains.
Across industries, health benefits have remained stagnant or declined, according to a recent survey by the Society for Human Resource Management. However, some companies still prioritize distinctive benefits that align with their values and culture.
For instance, Run for Something, a political organization, not only offers a four-day workweek and covers health insurance premiums but also provides a “treat yourself” stipend, underscoring its commitment to work-life balance and inclusion.
The future of workplace benefits
The streaming service Philo takes a different approach, offering a $2,000 bonus when employees take their vacation time. The company also provides a $500 monthly bonus for those who choose to work from the office three days a week, creating a balance between remote and in-person work.
However, experts warn that flashy perks alone won’t retain talent. “The market and the employees are smarter than that,” notes Amy Spurling, CEO of HR services company Compt. Companies are now focusing on flexible, personalized benefits that support employees’ actual needs while fostering a positive workplace culture.
