Published on: 14 February 2019
Last Updated on: 15 July 2024
As company culture is changing across US workplaces, potential employees are being more choosy about the things they’re looking for from an employer. Employees needs are different today, and so are the benefits people are looking for. To attract top talent, you’ll want to offer a strong benefits package with benefits employees are actually looking for. Recruiters are working harder to find top talent by helping companies create more attractive benefits offerings.
Benefits Offerings Should Change With the Times
In a recent survey by GlassDoor, approximately 60% of those asked said they strongly consider benefits and perks before accepting a job offer. A full 80% said they would prefer better benefits over a bump in pay and feel valued when employers offer good benefits. Job seekers are looking for a robust benefits package, that includes at least some of these.
Benefits that Employees Actually Look For:
Flexible Work Schedule:
This might mean the ability to work from home or adjust your work schedule on occasion. The goal is for employees to achieve a better work-life balance, especially those with children. Companies like Netflix are leading the industry in employee flexibility, giving workers autonomy to create a schedule that works for them, while still being productive. It may mean that parents of young children come in earlier than their co-workers and leave earlier to pick their kids up. This flexibility also allows for self-care and a sense of independence and helps companies attract and retain top talent.
Good Health Benefits:
Employees are not interested in bare-bones, fall down and break something insurance policies or those with high deductibles. More businesses are listening and offering more benefit-rich insurance, with the option for Flexible Spending Accounts or a wider variety of plans to choose from. Employers can also opt to cover a portion of employee’s coverage as a benefit. Health insurance may be the most expensive perk that you can offer employees, but it is one of the most important.
Better Vacation Time:
Employees want to be able to take time off as needed. Americans are notoriously bad at using vacation days and leave $224 billion dollars in vacation time behind annually. More companies are beginning to adopt open, or unlimited, vacation policies. This can be a win-win for both employers and workers, saving an average of $1,898 per employee annually. Companies save time and money by no longer having to track employee vacation or having to pay out unused vacation days. Employees benefit by taking days as they need them, delivering more flexibility and autonomy. It sends a message to employees that the company trusts them to make their own decisions, so long as their work is not affected.
Other Perks:
Things like paying for parking, offering tuition assistance or a free gym membership also rank high on the list for employees. Small gestures like free snacks go a long way with employees, making them feel valued. If you aren’t working hard to create meaningful personal connections with your employees, you are making a mistake. Showing genuine interest in them, and their families if applicable, goes a long way.
By offering meaningful benefits for your employees, you’ll boost morale, and retain a better workforce.
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There was a time when companies feared that remote work might affect healthy company culture and productivity. However, the pandemic made us realize that remote work can be a great work experience.
When it comes to remote work, companies allow employees and employers to control where, how, and when they want to work. Multiple studies have confirmed that it helps to establish a positive work environment.
Since 2020, remote work has become popular among all industries. We can observe that remote opportunities are all over the job boards. Some companies even describe themselves as fully remote.
But the real question is, what exactly is remote work, and how successful is it to work from a remote location?
Don’t worry, we have covered everything you must learn about remote work in this blog post. We will pay attention to the benefits and challenges of remote working. I will also discuss the recent remote job posts in high demand.
What Is a Remote Job?
In simple terms, remote jobs specifically talk about such work which does not require you to be physically present in the office space.
Previously, remote working was considered just the same as working from home. However, in recent years, the term has evolved. Now, remote working means working from anywhere other than the traditional work setting.
Whether working from a co-working space, your couch, or even a hotel room in another country, it is considered a remote job.
Ultimately, the main aim is to get the job done regardless of the location from which you are working. If you have your laptop or proper internet, you can work from wherever you want.
Remote working includes two specific types:
Full remote. In this case, all the interactions take place on a virtual platform.
Partial mode. This is also known as hybrid working. In case of partial more, the team splits up, and some of their employees work from multiple locations.
Most of the companies follow their definition of remote working. You can find the specifications on their job descriptions and websites. For example, a company may offer you remote work, but you may have to work while residing in a particular city.
Why Have Remote Jobs Become So Popular Lately?
The traditional 9 to 5 and 40 hours of week still exists in various companies. However, more companies are moving towards the remote working policy. As per the remote working policy, employees are free to choose whether they want to work from the office or from a remote location.
They get the opportunity to choose whatever suits them the best. Remote working has made a massive transformation in our way of working. It offers both flexibility and productivity in an organization. On top of that, it provides excellent access to the global talent pool.
The remote working process has helped redefine the overall company culture. It also helps to adopt new and advanced technologies. Alongside the benefits, remote working has become a central part of the professional landscape.
Thus, both employees and employers must adapt or instead embrace the opportunities and challenges it offers.
In such ways, the companies can combine remote working with their daily operation. This will further empower individuals as well as organizations to connect through the digital world.
The Major Benefits Of Remote Jobs
There are a lot of benefits to working as a remote worker. In this section, we will discuss the benefits of remote jobs and why they appeal to employers and employees.
You can work virtually
To learn about what a remote job is, it is necessary to understand the significant benefits that it offers. One of the most prominent benefits of remote jobs offer is that you can work from anywhere . You just need to have better internet access.
While working as a remote worker, you can choose your location. It can be a cafe or your own house. You can also work when you are traveling. You have a good internet connection, a well-functioning computer setup, and the time to complete the allocated tasks.
However, some companies have specific rules and regulations regarding location. It would be helpful to understand the company policies regarding remote working.
A flexible working schedule
Remote working offers you a flexible working schedule. Suppose you are mostly productive during the early morning hours. In such cases, you choose the morning shift and tailor your working schedule accordingly.
Remote working allows you to seize the opportunity and choose flexible working hours, leading to great productivity.
It enhances your motivation
Remote working helps you decrease additional distractions from your co-workers, further increasing your motivation. Additionally, it allows you to develop good habits. You also start following best practices that can help you to optimize your day-to-day activities.
It saves you time and money
When working as a remote worker, you can quickly minimize the time you spend commuting. It also helps you to save money on gas or maintaining your car.
Moreover, you can invest less in working clothes or the meals you have outside. As a result, you can keep a proper balance between work and personal life while saving money.
Are There Any Challenges?
While remote working has a lot of benefits to offer, there are a lot of challenges that you might face while working as a remote worker. But that doesn’t mean that you cannot avoid the obstacles.
You need to have proper planning to overcome the challenges. In this section, we will discuss the significant challenges of remote working.
Long working hours
There can be instances where you may have to work longer than your usual shift timing. As we have learned, remote working promotes flexible working hours. Thus, you must ensure you are logging off right on time.
Consider setting an alarm to help you stay updated about your working hours.
Complexity in establishing communication
When working as a remote worker, you communicate with your co-workers virtually. This can lead to a massive communication gap.
If you feel like such things are happening, consider talking to your manager and scheduling a meeting. This can help you to speak to everyone directly and further resolve the communication issue.
Massive workload
As a remote worker, you are more productive than in an office setting. This can lead to an increased workload. In such cases, do not hesitate to speak to your manager about it. Let the management know about the excessive responsibilities.
The manager can help you to rearrange all your priorities. This can help you to maintain a manageable workload.
What Are The Different Types Of Remote Jobs Available In The Job Market?
Remote working frees you from a 9 to 5 desk job just to complete some meaningful work. In 2024, a lot of industries and companies prefer to provide remote jobs.
In this section, I have provided you with a list of remote work available in the job market.
The industries that are preferring remotes working in 2024:
Computer and IT industry
HR and recruitment
Customer service
Medical and health industry
Accounting and finance industry
Marketing
Project management
The top and most common remote jobs of 2024:
Accountant
Front and back-end developer
Content writer
Marketing executives
Financial analysts
Product marketing managers ‘
Brand managers
Customer service representative
Graphic designer
HR recruiter
Technical writer
Project manager
Can I Do Work From Home?
Is the remote job the one for you? Remote jobs may be an ideal deal for all employees. Imagine taking frequent breaks, balancing your work and personal life, and working in a flexible shift- who doesn’t want it?
Even if remote work is ideal for all, practically, only some are perfect fit for remote work. There are many cases where the employees felt left out, isolated, and lonely. As a result, it had a significant impact on their productivity.
But you can still try to determine whether it is ideal. Firstly, you can start working as a remote worker and try it. See if it works out for you or not.
Secondly, you can ask yourself whether you will be motivated to work even when your supervisor is not around! Are you going to feel isolated, or if remote working can actually increase your productivity?
Asking such questions yourself can help you get a proper idea about it.
This article has been helpful for you in understanding what a remote job is and everything you must know about remote working. , don’t forget to stay connected with us for more blogs and articles.
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Each and every occupation has its perks. Consumer services offer a good headstart for people starting their careers in the field. Also, there is a promised and good growth potential in this sector.
The service sector of an economy is divided into three different categories.
Business services.
Public services.
And consumer services.
Many of us tend to confuse consumer service with customer service ( which is about helping customers before and after purchase). Consumer services are intangible, and they are often produced, served, and consumed at the same time.
But, is consumer services a good career path? What are the good sides and the disadvantages of a career in the consumer service platform? If you have similar queries, then this article might be helpful.
What Is Consumer Service?
Consumer services (again, not to be confused with customer services) focuses on intangible services that derive value from different intangible experiences, outcomes, or processes. Such services have no physical experience.
If you want examples, we can name a few familiar consumer services that we are familiar with,
Computer software,
Consulting,
Health care,
Accounting,
Education,
Insurance,
Investment banking etc.
Some jobs in the consumer service sector might also require you to work in call centers, and they might be based in retail stores. In some cases, you might be required to work from your home. A basic skill needed in the consumer service sector is good communication and problem-solving. Industrial services and consumer services differ from each other. Below is a detail,
Consumer Services Examples
Some examples of consumer service jobs can be found in different industries. Below are some industries you might want to check out,
1. Retail
In the retail industry, businesses create and sell products and services for personal use. If we calculate in the US, there are more than 3.8 million retail businesses. These consumer services in the retail sector employ around 44 million people. As a result, it is one of the biggest private sectors.
2. Healthcare
Health care services also come under the consumer service sector. The healthcare sector offers an assured answer to your question – “is consumer services a good career path?” there are different consumer services in this sector that are indispensable. You can find consumer service jobs in these sectors under healthcare services,
Rehabilitative
Emergency
Home care
And long-term treatments
3. Education
There are plenty of job opportunities in the healthcare service sector. But, the education sector is not devoid of consumer service occupations. You have jobs in universities, colleges, and schools.
4. Hospitality
Hospitality is the host of a huge service industry and is comprised of food and beverages, travel and tourism, lodging, and more. All of these feeds are interconnected to each other. There are many job opportunities in hospitality as a consumer service professional.
Similar to these sectors, consumer service jobs are available in Information technology, finance, product as services, and professional service sectors.
So, Is Consumer Services A Good Career Path In 2024?
Consumer services is a good career path in 2024 for those who enjoy interacting with people and solving their needs. Consumer services is a broad sector that includes a wide range of careers focused on delivering consumer services and support, such as customer service, sales, retail, marketing, product development, research and development, and operations.
Of course, there are also some challenges and drawbacks to working in consumer services, such as dealing with difficult customers, working under pressure, and facing competition. However, these can be overcome with the right skills and mindset, and by seeking training and support from employers or colleagues.
Some of the benefits of pursuing a career in consumer services are:
Job security
Many consumer services, such as health care and banking services, are essential for people's daily lives, so the demand for these services is likely to continue regardless of economic conditions. Consumer services industries are also constantly evolving and innovating, creating new opportunities for skilled workers.
Flexibility
Many jobs in consumer services offer flexible work schedules, making it easier to balance work and personal life. Some jobs also allow remote work or digital delivery, which can increase convenience and efficiency. There are also various types of jobs in consumer services, allowing candidates to choose positions that suit their interests and strengths.
Growth opportunities
There are many career growth and advancement opportunities in the consumer services industry, with many entry-level positions leading to management positions. Consumer services roles also help to develop transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution, which can benefit any profession.
Meaningful work
Consumer services roles play a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction and building brand loyalty, making it a meaningful career choice. Consumer services professionals can also make a positive impact on society by supporting local businesses and communities, reducing waste and clutter, and promoting health and wellness.
Jobs Available In The Consumer Service Sector
Now, with a clear idea about the consumer service sector, we are ready to explore the job opportunity in the consumer service sector.
This type of service has a wide range. The consumer service sector is the largest sector in the world, where jobs range from garbage cleaning to offering brain surgery. In the US alone, this sector has a wide range of jobs lined up, taking up almost 50% of the total available jobs in the US.
Different types of jobs are available in education, health, retail, and other different sectors. Teaching students, student counseling, and financing loans for students are intangible services produced and consumed simultaneously.
So, is consumer services a good career path? Yes, it is a viable option, given the number of variable job opportunities in different sectors. Salespersons and customer service representatives also come under consumer service.
Pros And Cons Of The Consumer Service Sector
Here are some pros and cons of the consumer service sector -
Pros
There are countless opportunities of working in the consumer service sector.
Low academic degree requirements make it a great place to start your job.
You can build interpersonal skills dealing with different types of clients.
Workers have opportunities to earn bonuses and commissions.
Cons
Sometimes it may not seem consistent. You have to deal with multiple and frequent changes in the business. This could often seem frustrating.
The working hour is not regular sometimes. You might have to work on holidays and weekends.
Professionals in this industry often face burnout and stress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Here are some frequently asked questions about the consumer service sector that I have answered below.
Q1. What Career Path Is Customer Service? Consumer service is a good career option. If you have good communication and problem-solving skills, you can choose customer service jobs. As a customer service provider, you have to help customers before and after the purchase of a certain product or service. Q2. What Are Examples Of Consumer Services? Consumer services are the type of job where employees offer intangible services. These services are typically produced and consumed simultaneously. Some common examples would be auto repairs, haircuts, healthcare, education, landscaping, or pet sitting. Q3. What Companies Are In The Consumer Services Field? Here are some companies that we can take as examples of consumer service companies,1. Talkdesk2. Kasisto3. Acorns4. Walmart5. Apple6. Amazon7. Innovaccer8. Pfizer9. Thumbtack10. Babylon Health11. N26 Q4. Is Customer Service And Consumer Service The Same? Consumer services and customer services are different. Customer services aim to support customers before and after the purchase of a specific product or service. However, consumer service is about providing intangible services like auto repairing or haircuts.
Is Consumer Services A Good Career Path? - Verdict
There are some pros and cons. But consumer service industries are great to start your career in. You might start at an entry-level job, and you will rise through the ranks and can eventually make a profitable career out of it. Truthfully, consumer services are a good career option. In this sector, you get to work with new people and multiple people every day.
In this article, I have explained several reasons why it is a good career path. Also, the number of jobs in this sector is multiplying every year. Did this article help? Please share y our feedback with us in the comment. You can also leave your queries regarding the same.
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Most people will spend roughly 40 hours per week at their workplace. Yet despite spending so much time at the office, the average worker is only productive for less than three hours per day.
Less productivity means wasted time and less profit. Additionally, an unproductive workplace is often caused by a lack of happiness.
If your office is struggling with employee productivity, it may be time to look at some ways to boost it by creating a positive culture
7 Ways to Boost Employee Productivity and Create a Positive Culture:
Here are seven ways you can promote a happier, more productive workplace.
1. Set a Good Example Through Body Language:
When it comes to office decorum, we often think about things like polite conduct.
But one of the biggest signs that employees are unhappy may not be verbal at all.
Often, unhappiness manifests in physical ways, such as body language.
Psychologists believe that the way we present ourselves physically through our body language has a major impact on how others see and interact with us -- even if we aren't always aware.
If you've noticed a change in employee morale for the worse, set a good example by focusing on creating a warmer, happier environment through physicality.
Something as simple as making eye contact to show interest or smiling can have a big impact on the work environment.
2. Facilitate Team Activities:
To reach peak potential, an office must be a well-oiled machine. Every employee must do their part to put out the highest caliber of a workday in and day out.
For some, though, they may feel less like a team and more like a series of individuals.
Reinforce teamwork through regular group activities. Once a month or so, take the team out for a night out.
Getting to know one another in a semi-professional manner outside of the office can instill a sense of belonging that many offices lack.
3. Provide a Space to Relax:
The day-to-day grind can wear even the most dedicated of employees down.
According to the American Institute of Stress, workers are more stressed than ever, with 46% of workers chalking their stress up to a burdensome workload.
You can combat workplace stress by providing a safe, relaxing environment where employees can take a quick break.
Consider building a rec room. For those who prefer fresh air, implement a community garden or talk to Shelters Direct about smoking shelters.
4. Let Employees Voice Their Opinions:
A good employer is someone who listens to what their employees have to say.
Make sure that employees feel they can voice their opinions and that they feel heard by their bosses.
5. Offer Incentives:
Another great way to encourage employee efficiency is to offer out-of-office incentives.
Partner with local businesses like gyms and health clubs to offer discounts or free memberships to employees. Perks matter more than employers think.
6. Choose Team-Building Language:
Many managers aren't sure how to treat employees. Should they be stern or friendly?
While the solution lies somewhere in the middle, how an employer talks to their employees does, in fact, matter.
Use team-oriented language with words like 'we' and 'us' to create a stronger sense of community.
7. Give Employees The Tools to Succeed:
Productive employees can only be productive if given the proper tools.
That includes providing a clean and safe workspace, as well as up to date software and hardware.
If you're not sure what employees need to be as productive as possible, simply ask.
Improve Employee Productivity With These Great Tips:
In order to establish a happy, efficient workplace, where employee productivity is at an all-time high, you'll want to follow these tips.
Remember, you as a manager have the ability to make a difference, so the change starts with you.
For more great tips on how to lead by example, check out our post on people management tips.
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