which benefits your job advertisement should (not) include

For almost 60% of employees, benefits are an important factor when choosing a job. However, not all benefits are considered desirable by candidates. In this article, you will learn which benefits to highlight in your job advertisement to stand out - and which to avoid.

What Do Employee Benefits Bring?

Benefits are more than just a supplement to salary. They reflect the company culture and demonstrate the company's interest in the well-being of employees. As work-life balance becomes increasingly important to employees, offering attractive additional packages means recognizing and catering to the diverse needs of the workforce. By offering effective benefits, you not only enhance your attractiveness as an employer but also promote loyalty and engagement within your existing team.

More tips for an excellent job advertisement: How to convince applicants with your job posting 

Beware of These Pitfalls

Although it may be tempting to list a wide array of benefits, some supposed 'perks' are best left unmentioned. These seven benefits are often seen as ineffective or even counterproductive: 

Mandatory Services

Do not highlight what is legally required, such as the minimum wage, statutory vacation entitlement, or even timely payment of wages. These are expected and are not an advantage.

Generic Advantages

Avoid vague benefits like "competitive salaries." Be specific and tangible in what you offer.

Exclusionary Offers

Benefits that cater exclusively to certain lifestyles or demographic groups, like beer nights or ping pong tournaments, may not appeal to everyone and might unintentionally signal a lack of inclusivity.

Short-term Lures

Benefits with limited duration or appeal, such as a sign-on bonus without long-term stability or growth opportunities, could attract candidates for the wrong reasons.

Low Value Perks

Highlighting minor perks like free snacks instead of substantial benefits indicates a lack of deeper investment in your employees' lives and careers.

Work Hard, Play Hard

This phrase can ring alarm bells for many applicants as it suggests devoting one's entire life to work. It can give the impression that the company promotes an imbalanced work-life ratio.

Family-like Work Atmosphere

What initially sounds positive is often interpreted as a sign of lack of structure and unclear processes. Many applicants think: "I have my family at home, I don't need a second one at work."

Also pay attention to these points when creating your job advertisement: 9 mistakes to avoid in job postings

Yes to These Benefits

With these benefits in your job advertisement, you can stand out to job seekers and attract top talents: 

Flexible Working Models

Flexibility is a top priority for many employees, so you should emphasize options like flexible working hours and part-time possibilities. Even in professions where these options are not common, job seekers appreciate when employers accommodate their time needs.

Generous Vacation Policies

Beyond the usual vacation entitlements, you should mention parental leave or sabbaticals. This can lead to long-term loyalty.

Home Office Options

The ability to work from home or abroad saves employees time and costs and enables a better balance between work and personal life.

Health Benefits

Comprehensive coverage such as health, dental, and vision insurance, as well as employer-sponsored health supplements are highly valued perks.

Mental Health Support

Highlighting mental health resources and support systems says a lot about your company culture.

Wellness Programs

Gym memberships or ergonomic workstation improvements like standing desks demonstrate a commitment to employee health. 

Childcare Subsidy

Especially valuable for parents, this benefit supports the balance between career and family.

Premium Tools

Clearly defined and achievable bonus structures show recognition and reward for hard work.

Performance Bonuses

If you can borrow quality tools for personal use free of charge, this is particularly a great plus for artisans. Because good tools are expensive, and this benefit also supports leisure activities.

Bringing Your Dog to the Office

For dog owners, this can be a decisive reason to choose this employer. But first make sure that all employees agree with this arrangement.

Professional Development

Growth opportunities such as tuition reimbursement or access to professional development courses are a big lure for career-oriented candidates. However, make sure to describe this offer more specifically, as otherwise it may sound very generic.

Company Pension Plan

A solid pension plan is a key factor for the long-term retention of employees.

Relocation Allowance

Especially attractive for professionals coming from other regions, this is a perk that can positively influence their decision towards an employer.

Beware: Only include benefits in job postings that you can actually offer. Otherwise, such bait tactics can damage your employer brand.

More tips on job advertisements: The value of videos & images in job postings

Conclusion

Highlighting benefits in a job advertisement has a significant impact on the quality and quantity of applicants. Remember to focus on meaningful, tangible benefits that address real needs and desires. This allows companies to position themselves as a preferred employer in a competitive job market.