Many companies 'are acting on assumptions about what employees actually value, rather than reliable'
When it comes to workplace benefits, there is a disconnect between what employers believe and what workers think, according to a recent report.
In fact, while 82% of employers believe their benefits programs reduce stress and boost productivity, only 63% of employees share that view, reports HUB International.
Despite this disconnect, only 64% of employers use employee surveys, and just 50% conduct demographic analysis. Two-thirds of companies do not consult external experts, instead depending on internal HR and industry reports.
“Canadian organisations are doing their best to attract and retain local talent, but our data shows many are acting on assumptions about what employees actually value, rather than reliable data,” said Terri Botosan, President, Employee Benefits, Retirement and Life at HUB International Canada. “Not only is this misalignment impacting retention and engagement.”
Many workers continue to encounter significant gaps in the benefits offered by their employers, according to a previous report from RBC Insurance.
What benefits do workers want?
Currently, 72% of employers plan to make changes to their benefits and total rewards programs in 2025, with 75% looking to add or enhance offerings.
Many companies are hitting the mark when it comes to benefits. Employers currently offer the following to their workers:
And employees are currently taking advantage of the following benefits:
Employees also say they will take advantage of the following if their employer would offer it:
Allowing employees to modify their benefits plan would be a great idea for employers, according to the report.
Specifically, 73% of employees would be more likely to stay with their current employer if offered a comprehensive and personalised benefits program, with this sentiment particularly strong among workers aged 25 to 34.
“With better insights, businesses can deliver what truly matters to their teams—without overspending,” concludes Botosan. “This isn’t just a benefits issue. It is a business issue.”
One-size-fits-all rewards no longer meet employee expectations, according to an expert.
Conducting employee surveys is a critical step in improving benefits offerings, according to Canadian HR Reporter:
“Surveying employees from all rankings on their needs and what they look for in a company gives perspective on what you can do to improve how you can take care of your workforce. Employees from one company can have different needs and wants compared to employees from another company. Because of this, it is important for employers to understand their workforce and not solely rely on and copy other companies' compensation and benefits packages.
“Employee surveys and feedback also reveal what employees think of the company. This information can help clarify any misunderstandings or catch any possible grievances employees could develop towards the company in the future.”
