In today’s competitive job market, unique perks can make all the difference in boosting employee morale and productivity. Hear from industry leaders like founders and CEOs as they reveal their most innovative employee benefits. Discover how “Personal Progress Days” can enhance learning and morale, as well as the impact of service discounts on encouraging self-care. With insights from sixteen experts, this article offers a comprehensive look into effective strategies for workplace well-being.
- Personal Progress Days Boost Learning and Morale
- Employee Spotlight Week Enhances Recognition
- Well-Being Days Reduce Burnout
- Personal Development Stipend Empowers Growth
- Creative Reset Days Inspire Innovation
- Cultural Exchange Fridays Promote Inclusivity
- Paid Time Off for Personal Errands
- Work-from-Home Option Boosts Satisfaction
- Flexible Work Hours Increase Productivity
- Quarterly Wellness Stipend Supports Well-Being
- Family Bonding Stipends Show We Care
- Client Appreciation Fridays Reinforce Purpose
- Career Development Programs Foster Growth
- Complete Autonomy Policy Attracts Motivated Professionals
- Employee Assistance Programs Enhance Well-Being
- Service Discounts Encourage Self-Care
Personal Progress Days Boost Learning and Morale
One unique perk we offer at both my companies, the Open Institute of Technology and Docsity, is “Personal Progress Days”—an allocated time for employees to further their own learning. We encourage all our staff to take two days each month to complete an educational course of their choice, relevant to our industry or otherwise. This unique perk positively impacts our workplace in two main ways.
Firstly, it fosters a culture of continuous learning, enhancing our team’s ability to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving tech and education sectors. Secondly, it shows our team that we genuinely care about their own personal development, which in turn significantly increases job satisfaction and employee morale. We’ve witnessed increased engagement, a deeper sense of loyalty, and a remarkable uptick in innovative ideas since implementing this approach.
Riccardo Ocleppo
Founder & Director, OPIT
Employee Spotlight Week Enhances Recognition
We offer an “Employee Spotlight Week,” where each team member gets celebrated for their contributions in a way tailored to their interests. For example, one week we organized a team lunch at a sushi spot for an employee who’s a huge foodie, and another week we decorated the office with sports memorabilia for a baseball fan.
This personalized approach creates a sense of belonging and recognition that standard performance reviews don’t achieve. It’s been incredible for morale because employees feel seen not just for their work but as individuals. Since starting this program, we’ve noticed improved collaboration across teams, people are more willing to help each other out because they feel genuinely valued. Leaders looking to replicate this should get to know their teams well, personalized recognition goes a long way in building loyalty.
Tzvi Heber
CEO & Counselor, Ascendant New York
Well-Being Days Reduce Burnout
Our team benefits from “well-being days,” which are additional paid days off specifically for mental health and personal wellness, no questions asked. This is more than just a break; it’s a way to reset and return to work feeling genuinely refreshed. These days have become incredibly popular and help create a culture that values balance.
Our “well-being days” have had a profound effect on reducing burnout, with team members feeling empowered to step away when needed without guilt or explanations. This has led to a noticeable increase in overall productivity and job satisfaction, as people know they’re supported in taking time to care for themselves. It’s a simple concept, but one that has transformed our approach to mental health.
Alari Aho
CEO and Founder, Toggl Inc
Personal Development Stipend Empowers Growth
As a career coach, one unique perk I offer is a personal development stipend. Each employee receives an annual budget to spend on training, certifications, or even conferences they find valuable. What’s unique about this perk is that it’s entirely employee-driven, they choose what to pursue, whether it’s related to their current role or a skill they’re passionate about developing.
This initiative has not only improved morale but also built a sense of loyalty among my team. Employees feel invested because we’re supporting their long-term goals, not just the company’s immediate needs. For example, one team member used their stipend to take a public speaking course, which enhanced their confidence and directly benefited our coaching workshops. My advice: empower employees to invest in themselves, it’s a tangible way to show you value their growth.
Sean Smith
CEO & Ex Head of HR, Alpas Wellness
Creative Reset Days Inspire Innovation
A unique perk we provide and one that has increased employee morale immensely is our quarterly Creative Reset Days. These are regular days off without pay that we urged people to spend doing personal development, practicing hobbies or just plain refreshing. The idea is simple: allow people time out from work (with no emails, no meetings, no deadlines) to make them come back recharged, inspired and more stimulated. It is essentially a framework to motivate our team in a significant way to keep their mental health part of their work-life balance.
Since rolling out this initiative, we have experienced a significant boost in workplace morale and productivity. Workers typically use these days to work on creative pursuits, taking a class in painting, preparing a new entree or stopping by an exhibition or reconnecting with family. Giving them the choice in how to spend the day, along with the knowledge it is fully supported by leadership promotes trust and respect.
The nature of the impact has been varied. Increased feeling of appreciation amongst team members, leading to greater overall engagement and loyalty with the company. We have also seen real results such as increasing creativity and innovation. Once completed, employees often return with fresh ideas and perspectives that are relevant to our projects (and in this case, culture).
This benefit has not only added to the morale of a firm, but also improved recruitment and retention. In interviews, candidates consistently cite Creative Reset Days as a unique perk that differentiates us from other companies. For current employees, it shows that they are people, not just staff members and their wellness is important.
Any other leaders I would advise, do not underestimate the power of downtime on purpose. If you allow others the opportunity to recharge on their own terms, it will not only help them grow as individuals but also create a much more innovative, resilient and connected group of people.
Darryl Stevens
CEO, Digitech Web Design
Cultural Exchange Fridays Promote Inclusivity
One unique perk we offer at Best Diplomats is our “Cultural Exchange Fridays.” Every Friday, we encourage employees from different backgrounds to share a piece of their culture with the team.
This can be anything—from introducing traditional foods, sharing stories, showcasing music, or even bringing small artifacts from their heritage. It’s a simple yet powerful idea that promotes inclusivity, cultural awareness, and team bonding.
This weekly event has done wonders for morale. Employees feel more valued and connected as they get to share a part of themselves outside their work roles. It’s also helped us build a strong, positive workplace culture where everyone feels more open and supportive. People genuinely look forward to Fridays now, and it’s something that makes us feel like a tight-knit community.
The impact has been significant. Not only have we seen an increase in employee satisfaction, but this practice has also improved team communication and collaboration.
When people understand each other’s backgrounds, they work together better and bring greater empathy to their roles. I would highly recommend other organizations consider something similar to encourage openness and build a sense of belonging.
Fawad langah
Director General, Best Diplomats
Paid Time Off for Personal Errands
We offer paid time off specifically for personal errands, which has been a game-changer for morale. Plumbing schedules can be demanding, so giving team members a few hours a month to handle things like doctor’s appointments or car repairs without using vacation time has made a big difference. It shows we respect their time outside of work, and in return, we’ve seen higher retention and a noticeable improvement in overall team attitude. Employees come back more focused and appreciative, which benefits everyone.
Blake Beesley
Operations and Technology Manager, Pacific Plumbing Systems
Work-from-Home Option Boosts Satisfaction
I always make sure to offer our employees the opportunity to work from home at least once a week. This flexible work arrangement has significantly boosted employee morale and improved overall job satisfaction. I noticed that our employees are more motivated and productive during their in-office days, as they have the opportunity to balance their personal and professional lives.
The work-from-home option also helps to reduce employee burnout and stress, leading to a happier and healthier workforce. It has positively impacted our workplace by creating a positive company culture where work-life balance is valued and respected. This perk has also helped us attract top talent who value this type of flexibility in their workplace.
It sets us apart from other legal firms and creates a positive reputation for our company culture. Happy employees mean happy clients, which has positively impacted our workplace overall. According to a recent study, companies with flexible work arrangements have higher employee retention rates and increased productivity.
Daniel Cook
HR / Marketing Executive, Mullen and Mullen
Flexible Work Hours Increase Productivity
One benefit that’s had a noticeable effect on employee morale in our workplace is offering flexible work hours. Instead of sticking to a strict 9-to-5, we allow employees to adjust their schedules within a set framework. This small change acknowledges that people have different energy levels and personal responsibilities, making it easier to balance work and life.
Since implementing this policy, the results have been overwhelmingly positive. Employees feel trusted and valued, which has improved overall motivation and job satisfaction. We’ve seen a 15% drop in absenteeism and a marked increase in productivity, as people now work during their peak hours of focus.
This flexibility has created a more autonomous and respectful workplace culture, where employees feel empowered to deliver their best work.
Vaibhav Kamble
CEO, CloudOptimo
Quarterly Wellness Stipend Supports Well-Being
We offer a quarterly “Wellness Stipend” that employees can use for anything that supports their well-being-from a home office upgrade to a fitness subscription, or gym membership, or even a weekend getaway. This stipend has had a noticeable impact on morale by empowering our team to prioritize their wellness in ways that suit their lifestyles. Employees often share how they’ve used their stipend, sparking inspiration and camaraderie across the team, even from afar.
Kristin Marquet
Founder & Creative Director, Marquet Media
Family Bonding Stipends Show We Care
We introduced “Family Bonding Stipends”—a small budget that each team member can use to create a memorable experience with their loved ones, from a family dinner to a weekend getaway. We believe that these shared moments strengthen the foundation on which they build their professional lives. It’s been a great way to show we care about their happiness outside the office.
By showing that we prioritize their personal and family lives, we’ve nurtured an environment of loyalty and commitment. Employees are happier and more engaged because they know they’re valued not just for their professional output but as people. This has created a workplace where everyone feels like family, resulting in remarkable teamwork and client dedication.
Jason B. Javaheri
Co-Founder & Co-CEO, J&Y Law
Client Appreciation Fridays Reinforce Purpose
We offer “Client Appreciation Fridays,” where we close the office early and dedicate time to reflecting on the clients we’ve helped, celebrating positive outcomes and client feedback as a team. It’s not just about taking a break; it’s a moment to reconnect with the purpose of our work. This has become a powerful motivator, reminding us all why we do what we do.
“Client Appreciation Fridays” have helped reinforce a strong sense of purpose, grounding our team in the positive impact we’re making in people’s lives. Reflecting on client wins and shared experiences has strengthened camaraderie and built a shared pride in our work. This boost in morale has been invaluable, reminding us of the tangible difference we make for our clients.
Jeffrey A. Preszler
Partner, Preszler Law Alberta
Career Development Programs Foster Growth
At Verity IT, one unique perk that significantly boosts employee morale is our emphasis on professional growth through personalized career development programs. We invest in tailored learning paths, certifications, and skill-building workshops that align with each employee’s interests and career goals. This approach goes beyond traditional training; it empowers our team members to feel valued and supported in their professional journeys.
The positive impact on our workplace has been profound. Employees feel a sense of ownership over their growth, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and high engagement. As a result, we’ve seen increased job satisfaction and retention, as well as a motivated workforce that continuously enhances their expertise and contributes to our collective success. For us, investing in our team’s personal and professional development has translated into not just happier employees, but a stronger, more unified company.
Mark London
President/CEO, Verity IT
Complete Autonomy Policy Attracts Motivated Professionals
Our complete autonomy policy really emerged naturally from our remote-first model that we launched with whereby all our writers and strategists completely control their own schedules and workflows entirely, focusing on deliverables rather than desk time.
Team members consistently exceed our expectations when given ownership over their work process and I believe that the freedom to structure your day around your own peak productivity periods just dramatically improves both your output quality and therefore your job satisfaction. Our model also attracts the most self-motivated professionals out there who absolutely thrive on having their independence.
Sandy Meier
Head of Marketing, Contentellect
Employee Assistance Programs Enhance Well-Being
We offer the benefit of employee assistance programs to our employees. Employees Assistance Program (EAP) boosts employee morale and helps in providing professional development, mental health and celebrating small wins of employees. It is also helpful in increasing their productivity and positively impacts the whole workplace. Employee assistance programs are designed to provide professional assistance in dealing with work-related programs and emotional well-being.
Employee assistance programs increase productivity, decrease absenteeism, enhance employee retention and improve workplace morale and culture. Providing early interventions and mental health support concerns also helps prevent any issue from escalating and improving the overall workplace. Implementing EAP shows a commitment towards employee well-being. It creates a positive workplace where empathy, support and understanding are crucial elements.
Dhari Alabdulhadi
CTO and Founder, Ubuy Netherlands
Service Discounts Encourage Self-Care
We believe that when our staff feels and looks their best, it reflects positively in their work and interactions. By providing discounts on our services, we empower them to indulge in a little self-care, which creates a positive workplace. It’s a win-win that keeps everyone motivated and happy!
Diane Howard
Rn and Founder, Esthetic Finesse