We Filipinos often focus heavily on salary when looking for a job. While a good salary is important, it’s not the only thing that matters. There are many other ‘perks’ or benefits that can make a job more satisfying and improve your overall well-being. Sometimes, these unspoken advantages are more valuable than a slightly higher paycheck. This article highlights some of these often-overlooked job perks that Filipinos should consider during their job hunt.
Understanding Total Compensation
Think of your job as more than just the monthly salary that goes into your bank account. It’s about “total compensation,” which includes everything the company gives you in exchange for your work. This means considering not just the money, but all the other benefits and advantages that come with the job. It’s like buying something; you don’t just look at the price tag, you also consider the quality, warranty, and other features. Your job is the same way. Ignoring all parts of the benefits package to focus on the base salary can mean missing a job that, long term, makes a huge difference in your life. For instance, are the health benefits good? Does the company offer training to help you improve your skills? These things have real value.
Health and Wellness Benefits: More Important Than You Think
Many companies in the Philippines offer health insurance as part of their benefits package. This is super important! Don’t just assume all health insurance is equal. Check the details of the plan. Does it cover your dependents (like your spouse or children)? What’s the coverage limit? Does it include dental and vision care? These are things you need to check. Unexpected medical bills can be a huge financial burden, so good health insurance can provide real peace of mind. Beyond basic health insurance, some companies are now offering wellness programs. These could include gym memberships, mental health support, or even on-site fitness classes. These programs are a sign that the company cares about your well-being, and they can help you stay healthy and productive. For example, more companies now recognize the importance of mental health. Look for companies that offer access to counseling or mental health apps. This can be a huge benefit, especially in high-pressure work environments.
Leave Policies: Vacations, Sick Days, and Everything In Between
We Filipinos are hard workers, but we also need time to rest and recharge. Don’t just look at how many vacation days you get. Also check the company’s sick leave policy. Are you penalized for taking a sick day? Is there a limit to how many sick days you can take per year? Some companies also offer other types of leave, like parental leave for new parents or bereavement leave for those who have lost a loved one. These policies show that the company understands that its employees have lives outside of work. Consider this: A company might offer a slightly lower salary but provide more generous leave policies. This could be a better deal in the long run, especially if you value work-life balance. For example, some companies are now offering “mental health days,” allowing employees to take a day off work to focus on their well-being. Or you might find an option for extended sabbatical leave after several years of work.
Professional Development Opportunities: Investing in Your Future
A good job should not just pay you money; it should also help you grow professionally. Look for companies that offer training programs, workshops, or conferences that can help you improve your skills and knowledge. Some companies even offer tuition reimbursement if you want to pursue a higher degree. These opportunities allow you to upskill, stay relevant in your field, and advance your career. It’s like planting a seed and making sure it is fed to grow big. Even a simple course on project management, for example, can make a big difference in your performance. Be sure to ask about these during the interview process. What training programs are available? Are there opportunities for mentorship? These are good questions to ask.
Work-Life Balance: Finding the Right Fit
Work-life balance is super important for your overall well-being. Look for companies that respect your time outside of work. Do they encourage employees to leave on time? Do they offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours? A company that values work-life balance understands that employees are more productive when they have time to rest and recharge. Think about your personal preferences. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Would you prefer to work from home some days? Find a company that aligns with your needs and preferences. During the enhanced community quarantine of 2020, many Filipino companies adopted work-from-home arrangements, proving that remote work is possible and can be effective. Many employees found that it improved their work-life balance. If this is important to you, make sure to ask about the company’s remote work policy.
Company Culture: Feeling Valued and Respected
Company culture refers to the values, beliefs, and behaviors that shape the work environment. A positive company culture can make a big difference in your job satisfaction. Do employees feel valued and respected? Is there open communication and feedback? Do employees feel supported and encouraged to grow? A negative company culture can lead to stress, burnout, and even depression. Try to get a sense of the company culture before you accept a job offer. Read online reviews, talk to current employees, and observe how people interact during the interview process. If possible, try to visit the office and see what the environment is like. Does it seem like a place where you would feel comfortable and happy? For example, you might be looking for a company that values teamwork and collaboration. In that case, you would want to find a company that encourages employees to work together and support each other. Some companies even encourage volunteer work or organize team-building events to foster a sense of community.
Location and Commute: Saving Time and Money
The location of your workplace can have a big impact on your quality of life. A long commute can be stressful, time-consuming, and expensive. Think about how much time and money you would spend commuting to work each day. Is it worth it? Consider transportation costs, parking fees, and the overall stress of traffic. If possible, try to find a job that is close to your home or has good public transportation options. Some companies offer transportation allowances or shuttle services to help employees with their commute. This can be a significant benefit, especially in cities like Metro Manila where traffic is notoriously bad. Some are even investing in building sites in different regions of the country to lower the number of employees trying to get to already-choked Metro Manila offices. During the pandemic, many Filipinos experienced the benefits of working from home, including reduced commute times and costs. Some are understandably hesitant to go back to traditional office work.
Other Perks to Consider
Besides the main perks listed above, there are many other benefits you should consider when evaluating a job offer. Here are a few examples:
Free Food and Drinks: Some companies offer free meals, snacks, or drinks to their employees. This can save you money on food and drinks, and it can also make your workday more enjoyable.
Employee Discounts: Some companies offer discounts on their products or services to their employees. This can be a great way to save money on things you already buy.
Performance Bonuses: Many companies offer performance bonuses to employees who meet or exceed their goals. This can be a great way to earn extra money and be recognized for your hard work.
Retirement Plans: Some companies offer retirement plans, such as 401(k)s or pensions, to help employees save for retirement. This is an important perk to consider, as it can help you secure your financial future.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Some companies offer flexible spending accounts, which allow you to set aside pre-tax money for certain expenses, such as healthcare or childcare. This can save you money on taxes.
Stock Options: Some companies offer stock options to their employees. This gives you the opportunity to buy company stock at a discounted price. If the company does well, your stock options could be worth a lot of money.
Relocation Assistance: For some roles, it can also come with relocation assistance, especially if you’re considering moving to another area (locally or sometimes internationally) for the job, so consider this as well.
Negotiating Your Benefits
Don’t be afraid to negotiate your benefits package during the job offer stage. Many companies are willing to negotiate on things like salary, vacation time, and health insurance. Do your research and know what you’re worth. Be prepared to explain why you deserve the benefits you’re asking for. For example, if you have valuable skills or experience, you can use that as leverage to negotiate a higher salary or more vacation time. Remember that it’s okay to say no to a job offer if it doesn’t meet your needs. It’s better to wait for the right opportunity than to accept a job that you’re not happy with. Often, especially for larger companies, there are set tiers or guidelines for what you can negotiate. But you may be surprised, so ask! And remember, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
How to Find Out About These Perks
Okay, so you’re convinced these perks beyond salary matter. How do you actually find out about them? Here are some tips:
Ask questions during the interview: Don’t be afraid to ask about the company’s benefits package during the interview process. This is your chance to learn more about what the company offers and to see if it’s a good fit for you. Ask specific questions about health insurance, leave policies, training programs, and work-life balance.
Research the company online: Look for reviews from current and former employees on websites like Glassdoor. This can give you a good sense of the company culture and benefits package. Also, check the company’s website and social media pages for information about their values and employee programs.
Talk to people in your network: Reach out to friends, family, or former colleagues who work at the company you’re interested in. They can provide insider information about the company culture and benefits package. Ask if they enjoy their jobs, if they feel supported by their managers, and if they have opportunities to grow and develop.
Look for clues in the job posting: Sometimes, job postings will mention certain benefits, such as flexible work arrangements or free snacks. Pay attention to these details, as they can give you an idea of what the company values.
Remember Your Priorities
Everyone has different priorities when it comes to their job. What’s important to one person may not be important to another. Think about what’s most important to you. Is it a high salary? Is it work-life balance? Is it professional development? Once you know what your priorities are, you can focus your job search on companies that offer the things that matter most to you. If you’re a parent, you might prioritize companies with good parental leave policies or on-site childcare. If you’re passionate about fitness, you might look for companies with gym memberships or wellness programs. And if you’re looking to advance your career, you might prioritize companies with training programs and mentorship opportunities.
Examples of Companies with Great Perks
While it’s impossible to definitively say which companies have the “best” perks (it’s subjective!), here are some examples of companies in the Philippines known for offering more than just a salary:
Multinational Tech Companies: Many multinational tech companies (think Google, Microsoft, Accenture) often offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities. They often have a strong focus on employee well-being and offer perks like free food, gym memberships, and flexible work arrangements.
BPOs (Business Process Outsourcing): Some BPOs offer competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract and retain talent. These packages can include health insurance, retirement plans, and performance bonuses. Some BPOs also offer perks like free meals, transportation allowances, and on-site amenities like gyms and game rooms.
Startups: While startups may not always be able to offer high salaries, they can often offer other valuable perks, such as stock options, flexible work arrangements, and opportunities for growth and development. Working at a startup can be a great way to gain experience and make a big impact.
Philippine Conglomerates: Large Philippine conglomerates sometimes lead when it comes to employee benefits and welfare programs. Research the HR policies of big names such as Ayala Corporation, SM Investments Corporation, or San Miguel Corporation when considering long-term employment.
Focus on Long-Term Value
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a high salary offer. But remember to think about the long-term value of the job. A job with a slightly lower salary but better benefits and a more positive work environment could be a much better choice in the long run. It is like choosing between a fancy car that breaks down often and a reliable car that lasts for years. Focus on what will make you happy, healthy, and successful in the long term. This is not to say salary should be neglected, but think of holistic long-term gains.
FAQ
Why are non-salary benefits important?
Non-salary benefits significantly impact your overall well-being and job satisfaction. They provide financial security (through health insurance or retirement plans), opportunities for growth (through training and development), and a better work-life balance, leading to a more fulfilling career. Don’t underestimate how much value these can bring–they aren’t ‘extras’ but necessities.
How can I assess a company’s culture during the interview process?
Observe how employees interact with each other and with the interviewer. Ask questions about teamwork, company values, and management styles. Look for clues in the office environment, such as whether employees seem happy and engaged. Use online resources such as Glassdoor to get more insight into the company culture.
Is it okay to negotiate benefits during the job offer stage?
Absolutely! It is common and often expected to negotiate your benefits package. Research industry standards and your own value to justify your requests. Be professional and respectful, and focus on areas that are most important to you. The worst they can say is no, but it is absolutely worth asking!
What’s more important: a higher salary or better work-life balance?
This depends entirely on your individual priorities. A higher salary might be appealing in the short term, but a job with a better work-life balance can lead to greater long-term happiness and reduced stress. Consider your personal needs and values when making this decision. If you are prone to stress, or know you crave personal time, prioritize the one that will allow you to do it better.
How do I find companies that offer good benefits?
Research companies online, read employee reviews, and talk to people in your network. Look for companies that are known for their strong employee programs and positive work environments. Pay attention to details in job postings that mention benefits like flexible work arrangements or professional development opportunities. If something is important to you, ask directly.
What if the company doesn’t offer any of the desirable perks?
Then it might not be the correct fit for you! In a scenario where you love what they do, ask them to be implemented. Show them that the implementation of such desirable perks will lower turnover and increase work quality output.
References
Glassdoor
Indeed
Jobstreet Philippines
Forget just chasing the highest salary number. Start looking at the entire picture. Think about your physical and mental health, your work-life balance, and your professional growth. By focusing on these unspoken job perks, you can find a job that truly enriches your life and sets you up for long-term success. Don’t settle for anything less! It’s time for Filipinos to demand more from their employers and prioritize their own well-being. Start your perk-focused job search today, and unlock a brighter, more fulfilling future!
