Employee engagement is having a moment, and for good reason. More than just a feel-good concept, it’s a key driver of organizational success. Consider this: recent research by Gartner HR found that employees who say they are energized and excited about their work are 31% more likely to perform above and beyond their duties and 31% more likely to stay at their organizations.

Conversely, there’s a connection between low employee engagement and decreased employee loyalty, a workplace trend that’s been getting a lot of attention lately.

Engaged employees care about more than just punching the clock and completing their tasks. They’re committed to the company’s vision, dedicated to performing well, and genuinely excited to contribute. So how do you instill this level of engagement? 

While big paychecks and job titles are important, they’re often not enough to keep the majority of employees satisfied. In addition to pure financial compensation, it’s the unique, thoughtful ways employers go the extra mile for their teams that can make a real difference in how employees feel about their jobs. 

Wondering how to get started? Check out these strategies to help your employees feel happier, more productive, and more engaged with their jobs. 

The correlation between in-person work and engagement

Collaboration, particularly in-person, has a significant impact on engagement. A 2021 study by Emotive Technologies found that employees who primarily work remotely are 182% less engaged than those who work primarily in-person. Other recent studies found that employees who collaborate are 60% more innovative and 56% more satisfied with their work. 

The great news for hybrid workplaces is that you don’t need a full five-day in-office schedule to enjoy the benefits of in-person collaboration. A recent Gallup poll found that working in-office two to three days a week created optimal engagement. With a flexible schedule that combines remote and office days, teams can benefit from a mix of collaborative energy and the ability to work independently, increasing job satisfaction and reducing employee burnout. 

How can companies increase employee engagement? 

Forward-thinking employers realize that embracing a hospitality mindset at work is the key to transforming an ordinary job into a fulfilling career. Competitive pay and standard benefits form the foundation, but persuading employees to fully invest themselves requires extra perks that make them feel valued.

While some perks for work, like wellness and education benefits, aim to improve overall job satisfaction, others are specifically designed to boost employee engagement. Here’s a look at some of the top ways employers can create an environment where people feel excited to show up, participate, and give their all each day.

1. Perk stipends

Yes, we did say it’s not all about the paycheck. But that doesn’t mean financial rewards aren’t welcome. Many companies are saving their employees time and money with subsidies for lunch or dinner like with Relish by ezCater. Other firms reward hard work with a stipend for travel or rideshare services.

2. Travel sabbaticals

A travel sabbatical says we value your hard work so much that we want you to step away from your desk and explore the world. Giving employees time to recharge doesn’t just give them a break from work — it also creates an opportunity for them to gain fresh perspectives. When they return, they’ll feel rejuvenated and may bring new ideas and new energy to the table. This creates a win-win for both the employee and the company they work for. 

At ezCater, we know about this first-hand. After five years of employment, ezCater’s employees get a month-long sabbatical, called an ezBreak! 

3. Free breakfast or lunch

There’s something about a free meal that brings people together and makes employees feel appreciated. ezCater’s Food for Work Report found that 86% of employers say food encourages employees to come to the workplace. In addition, 53% of employees say they feel more productive when their employers provide free food, and 82% say it creates an opportunity for them to connect and collaborate with their coworkers. 

Taking a break from the daily grind to enjoy a meal together gives everyone a chance to unwind and interact on a more personal level. These moments of relaxation and conversation over food often lead to an exchange of thoughts and experiences, resulting in better communication. Offering free breakfast or lunch is also a simple reminder that the company cares about the team’s well-being and daily satisfaction. 

4. Employee discounts

Offering employee discounts can create a personal connection between employees and the products or services they help create. When team members can access what their company offers at a discounted rate, it does more than just save them money — it makes them feel a part of the brand’s story and success.

This perk turns employees into brand ambassadors who both understand and appreciate the value of what they’re working on. It’s a powerful way to build a sense of ownership and pride in their work, ultimately leading to a more engaged and committed workforce.

5. Catered meetings

Catered meetings transform the typical conference room gathering into an event that everyone looks forward to. The simple act of providing a meal during a meeting can significantly boost attendance and participation. When employees don’t have to worry about grabbing lunch or whether there will be food, they’re able to focus more wholly on the discussion and connecting with coworkers. Serving a delicious and nourishing meal also makes attendees feel genuinely cared for.

Periodic lunch and learn sessions bring even more benefits. With nutrition powering their minds in a comfortable environment, teammates may be more likely to openly share ideas and engage in productive conversations. The combination of delicious food and interesting topics is the perfect recipe for employee engagement. 

No matter what form it takes, you can always count on workplace catering to take meetings to the next level – keeping attendees energized, focused, and connected.

6. Financial wellness programs

A recent Bank of America report found that 62% of employees are stressed about their finances, and 71% feel their wages aren’t keeping up with the rising cost of living. Employer-sponsored financial wellness programs like budgeting workshops, debt management sessions, and retirement planning advice can help employees make the most of their earnings. 

When employees have a sense of control over their finances, they’re less anxious and are better able to focus on their careers. Plus, when employees see their company investing in their financial health, they feel a greater sense of job satisfaction and loyalty, boosting overall engagement.

Boost your employee engagement with these top perks for work

Not sure how to get started with perks for work? Workplace catering is a high-value perk with a proven return on investment, making it popular among both employees and those charged with improving employee morale. ezCater’s Food for Work Report found that 20% of HR professionals are likely to say that providing food in the work environment offers the best value for the price when compared to other perks. 

Consider beginning with just one or two catered staff meetings or working lunches per week, so you can gauge the impact for yourself. Not only is this a cost-effective way to Implement a new work perk, but it also requires minimal staff effort. ezCater’s corporate catering solutions make increasing employee engagement easier than you might think. Contact us today to learn more and let us show you how we can help you turn any meeting into an opportunity to turn every meeting into an engaging occasion. 

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