When you are negotiating a job offer, you should be bartering more than just your salary. The benefits and perks that come with your job can be equally important so you want to think about your total compensation package. Some companies might also have a more rigid salary structure leaving more room to negotiate employee perks and incentives like additional training, health and wellness programs, and a flexible work schedule. These perks can make your job more enjoyable and in some cases might actually be worth more to you than your salary. So, if you’re not being offered the big salary bump you were hoping for, here are a few other perks worth negotiating.
Stock Options
Even if your salary is at its max, hiring managers sometimes have other ways they can raise your compensation and one of these is through stock options. Although stock options are a riskier move because their value is based on things outside your control, they do have the potential to make you money down the road and they can end up being quite lucrative.
401(K) Match
It’s never too soon to start saving for retirement and you should never pass up the opportunity to have your employer help contribute to your savings. A 401(K) match can be a great way to invest in your future and this perk can end up being extremely valuable in the long run. While you might not see that pay bump on each paycheck, you can rest easy knowing that you are contributing more to your retirement fund.
Wellness Programs
Companies want healthy employees because they are less likely to call in sick and they file fewer insurance claims which can help lower premiums. Thus, your company might be willing to invest in wellness programs for employees. They might pay your membership to a local gym to show their vested interest in your health. This savings means more money in your pocket each month so it can be worth negotiating.
Flexible Work Schedule
This can be one of the most valuable perks for any employee and can actually be beneficial for your employer as well. The average commute time in the U.S. is around 30 minutes so this adds up to an hour of work that is potentially lost. There are also costs associated with commuting such as gas, parking fees, and train or bus fares. A flexible work schedule is among the most desirable perks for today’s employees because it saves time and money. This perk is especially important for employees who have children and need flexibility to get them to and from school.
Education Benefits
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs and are willing to pay for employees to pursue their MBA. However, degrees aren’t the only educational benefits that can help advance your career. It’s worth negotiating for professional development opportunities that can help employees build skills that are useful in the workplace. Having a job where you get the chance to develop your skills can have a major payoff in the long run.
