The number of companies listing roles with on-the-job perks increased by 6% in the first quarter to the third quarter of 2017 compared to the same period last year, and by 135% compared to the same period five years ago, in 2012.
 
This is according to new statistics released today by Jobs.ie. A job ‘perk’ is distinct from a job ‘benefit’, like annual leave or a pension contribution. Whereas the latter is typically included as part of a salary, perks are provided on a daily or regular basis to encourage productivity and creativity.

The research shows that jobs offering perks like a free lunch, Friday beers, ‘bring your dog to work’ policies and gym membership are on the rise. Jobs.ie believe the upward trend in job perks shows that companies are increasingly putting people at the heart of their business.
 
General Manager at Jobs.ie, Christopher Paye says, "Ireland is hungry for talent, particularly in emerging industries like tech and financial services. Professionals are free to shop around for the best employment package, and on-the-job perks can help to sway them one way or the other. Perks are no longer the exclusive remit of American multinationals. In addition to competitive salaries and benefits, like annual leave and health insurance, many Irish companies are prioritising their employees’ happiness by providing catered meals, gym membership and team bonding events. To a prospective hire, this shows a commitment to culture and a positive working environment."

He added, "As employers demand more from their employees in terms of hours worked and always-on availability, perks also help to reduce stress and offset personal costs, particularly food spend. In the long term, this encourages loyalty and improves employee retention. Likewise, as the office perk culture becomes commonplace, employees will increasingly come to expect it from their employer. Companies that don’t take this on board risk losing out in the war for talent."

Source: www.businessworld.ie