Here we are! The fifth and final part of our “Understanding Your Benefits” series. Whether you are considering a new job offer or reviewing your options in open enrollment, we hope you found some value in this series. The final chapter discusses educational benefits, wellness programs, coaching and mentor programs, as well as diversity and inclusion programs.
Education Benefits
To kick things off, let’s talk about education benefits. These can include an array of options, such as tuition reimbursement, learning and development courses and on-the-job training. Most companies offer one or more of these benefits and perks. Depending on where you are in your career, these programs may or may not be important to you. Regardless, a company that offers education benefits of some sort demonstrates that they value their employees and want them to grow and succeed. It’s something to think about.
Wellness Programs
Workplace wellness programs attempt to improve an employee's emotional and physical health while also providing additional resources outside of health insurance. Traditionally, wellness programs have included health surveys and tools to assist people in losing weight or quitting smoking.
Wellness-related benefits are becoming more prevalent, such as fitness subsidies, meals, and access to mental wellness applications and counseling. Wellness program offerings vary considerably, so find out the specifics of what a company offers and examine how it matches your needs.
Coaching/Mentor Programs
If you’ve never taken advantage of a mentor program, you are really missing out. It’s an amazing opportunity to have someone who is more experienced help you advance your career. They do this by providing guidance, answering questions, and helping you navigate the political aspects of a job. This in turn will help you build and expand your professional network. Mentorship programs make an employee feel valued, foster a learning culture, and boost job satisfaction and productivity.
Diversity and Inclusion Programs
Last, but certainly not least, are the diversity and inclusion (D&I) programs. These programs promote diverse and frequently underrepresented groups, such as women, people of color, individuals with disabilities, and the LGBTQ community, to be represented and participate. Some D&I programs are more comprehensive than others, so rather than just noting that a company has a D&I program, it’s a good idea to find out more about what they offer and how it corresponds with your values and needs.
At the end of the day, make sure you understand the company’s benefits and perks before accepting an offer. Ask plenty of questions to make sure you understand how they fit into your total compensation. And just remember, if they don’t align with your needs, negotiate to get what you want.
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