Highlight: Beyond financial security, modern job seekers value comprehensive employee benefits. Thoughtfully designed perks help organisations attract and retain top talent. Read on for practical return-to-office incentives companies can offer after lockdown and how Fibe supports employee financial wellness.
Employees are an organisation’s most valuable resource, and salary alone is often just a baseline for retention. To truly engage and motivate staff, companies should expand compensation with meaningful non-monetary benefits. Well-crafted return-to-office perks present an opportunity to tap into talent, boost morale and increase productivity as teams transition back from remote work.
The post-pandemic environment has increased demand for flexible, employee-centred benefits. Many firms have chosen incentives over mandates to encourage employees to return to the workplace. These incentives are becoming a key part of updated compensation strategies designed to make the office a welcoming, productive place to be.
5 Perks to Include in the Updated Compensation Plan
Planning how to welcome employees back to the office after lockdown? Consider these effective return-to-work perks:
- Paid time off: Progressive companies offer flexible or unlimited vacation policies that allow employees to take the time they need, provided they meet deadlines and maintain high-quality work. Such policies support long-term well-being by encouraging experiences over material goods, which research links to lasting happiness. When implemented with clear expectations, open vacation policies foster an ownership mindset and motivate employees to perform at their best.
- Flexible schedules: Longer hours do not necessarily equal higher productivity. Allowing employees to choose when and where they work—through hybrid models or flexible start and end times—helps people operate during their most productive hours. Reducing the traditional five-day workweek or offering a four-day option can further improve mental health and output. Flexibility is a practical return-to-office perk that benefits both individuals and organisations.
- App-based wellness programs: Digital wellness platforms let employees access mental health resources, financial wellness tools, life coaching and fitness options on demand. A strong majority of workers see health and wellness programs as a competitive advantage for company culture. Online programs let employees participate safely from home or their desks, broadening appeal and supporting a healthier, more engaged workforce.
- Rest and relaxation amenities: Providing on-site or subsidised amenities—such as cafeterias, gyms, childcare facilities and retail options—helps employees balance work and life while making the office a more attractive place to spend time. Free memberships, coupons or access perks improve mental well-being and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Investing in these amenities supports happier, more productive teams.
- Celebration and social perks: Hosting return-to-office celebrations, team events, recognition ceremonies and regular social activities strengthens relationships among new and existing staff. Events that highlight company achievements or simply bring people together can increase excitement about returning to the office and deepen employee engagement. Regular rituals—birthday celebrations, meetups or weekend gatherings—help the workplace feel lively and welcoming.
- On-site or subsidised food: Providing free meals, meal stipends or discounts can be a powerful retention tool and boost productivity. Employees typically consume several meals or snacks during work hours, so companies that support nutritious, convenient options reduce stress and improve focus. Occasional team lunches or extended meal breaks can also foster connection and well-being.
Encouraging people to return to the office amid an ongoing public health context requires thoughtful, employee-focused policies. Organisations should revisit engagement strategies, compensation packages and return-to-work benefits to align with evolving employee needs. As companies and employees renegotiate expectations in the new normal, a refreshed benefits mix will reshape how workplaces attract and retain talent.
Fibe partners with organisations to deliver employee financial wellness programs and a range of financial services, including instant loans and salary advances. These offerings help employees stabilise their finances while they focus on performance and career growth.