Creative benefits help employers compete for talent

Employers are using four-day workweeks, extra PTO, paid healthcare, hybrid schedules and professional development funding to stand out as salary pressure limits pay raises. Insero Talent Solutions says flexibility and benefits are becoming key tools for attracting candidates across multiple industries.

Why it matters: - Employers that cannot keep raising pay are looking for other ways to win candidates. - Benefits and flexibility can change how job seekers compare offers. - Non-salary perks can also help companies retain workers by improving work-life balance and professional growth.

What happened: - Insero Talent Solutions, a recruiting firm based in Rochester, New York, says creative benefits are becoming a bigger part of talent strategy. - The firm works with employers across professional services, manufacturing, construction, real estate, healthcare and nonprofit sectors. - Cheryl Yawman, business development director at Insero Talent Solutions, said salary matters, but flexibility, benefits and professional growth can be just as important to candidates.

The details: - Some employers are reconsidering the traditional five-day workweek and testing four-day schedules. - Additional paid time off can include expanded vacation, personal days or broader PTO policies. - Employers that cover more of an employee’s healthcare premiums, or all of them, can offer a meaningful financial benefit beyond base pay. - Hybrid work options can appeal to candidates who want both in-person collaboration and remote work. - Flexible schedules can give employees more control over when they work. - Professional development funding can cover certifications, continuing education, conferences and other training. - Insero Talent Solutions says those benefits can support an organization’s long-term workforce needs while helping employees build skills.

Between the lines: - The hiring market is pushing companies to compete on the full employment package, not just salary. - Perks that save time or money may matter more when candidates compare similar pay offers. - Employers that understand what candidates value can make openings more attractive without relying only on larger compensation budgets.

What's next: - Employers are likely to keep adjusting recruiting strategies as talent competition continues. - Companies that bundle flexibility, benefits, time off and professional development may have an edge in filling roles. - Insero Talent Solutions says organizations that align offers with candidate priorities can improve hiring outcomes.

The bottom line: - Salary still matters, but the strongest offers may now be built around flexibility, benefits and growth opportunities.