When it comes to motivating your employees and attracting talented new hires, CEOs understand that company perks are of paramount significance. We spend months (and huge percentages of our budget) securing good health insurance, retirement savings plans, branded apparel, and in-office perks for our staff—and it might feel a bit discouraging to compare these benefits with the gourmet perks offered by corporate giants like Google.
Personally, though, I find the juxtaposition inspiring.
Looking at Google’s extensive line of company perks encourages us to think creatively about benefits and to stay on top of what’s currently wanted (and needed) by individuals in the workforce. We’re examining some of the most popular perks offered by Google and identifying cost-effective and meaningful alternatives. With plenty of inspiration and an open mind, your company can provide an improved benefits package without having to hire an in-house masseuse!
Examining Google’s Most Famous Perks
Looking at Google’s Glassdoor reviews over recent months, the phrase “great benefits” comes up over and over again. This is a company that provides highly competitive salaries (often above market), excellent health coverage, and generous paid leave, in addition to offering meaningful and fulfilling projects employees can sink their teeth into. As a CEO, all of those elements are part of my vision for my own company’s present and future.
What I’m baffled by are the unusual and exceptional company perks with which Google is currently leading the industry. Some of the most unique include:
- Free on-campus food options with all-meals-per-day access.
- Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development, including tuition reimbursements and Google Talks along with on-campus courses.
- On-site health and wellness services, free gym classes, and a full range of health practitioners from GPs to massage technicians.
- Philanthropic initiatives including employee donation matching and paid volunteer hours.
- Other small perks that differ by location: dog-friendly offices, shuttle service to work, free cooking classes, and more.
The Best Company Perks You Can Provide
Google is clearly succeeding at creating the all-inclusive workspace of the future—one cohesive ecosystem where employees work, eat, exercise, and stay entertained. Most companies aren’t shooting for that pie-in-the-sky goal. With that in mind, what are the best Google-inspired company perks your company can realistically offer?
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Google’s free food programs and extensive on-site wellness programs are a big part of what makes this one of the best companies to work for in the entire United States—but in my opinion, it’s less about the food and more about the intention. Think about what would make your team feel appreciated, even if it is just “free ice cream” or “smoothie day”. Health initiatives like these show your team you care about their wellbeing in a real, tangible way. Consider hosting after-work fitness bootcamps in your parking lot or offering subsidized gym memberships. Bring in speakers who advocate for a healthy work-life balance and provide a wide range of self-care ideas for your employees. We’re trying to empower the whole employee here, not just the hard worker.
Passion-Based Projects
Google’s success relies heavily on individuality, creativity, and collaboration. In growing your team, you’ve probably made a sincere effort to attract and retain talented and passionate employees—so, create opportunities for them to use that passion. Consider implementing Google’s 20% time policy, which frees up time in your employees’ schedules to work on passion projects of their choosing. At first, it may seem strange to “give up” 20% of employee productivity—but you may discover your team members are even more energized and productive with this setup. Why not start by giving them a Friday afternoon? The ideas they bring may be more beneficial than the time given.
Employee Recognition Programs
The overarching message with Google’s lineup of benefits is that they are investing in the health, prosperity, and happiness of their employees. Team members are valued and valuable. In your own company, you can accomplish this paradigm shift through the implementation of a really successful employee rewards program. Go beyond the basic no-frills point system and choose a recognition program that really motivates and inspires your employees through custom uniforms, employee stores, or rewards from brands they love. They’ll feel more excited to come to work every day, and you’ll enjoy a more satisfied and productive team.
Getting Started
Overall, I encourage you to gain inspiration from the wide array of companies that exist today. Glean what you can from the corporate giants and the scrappy start-ups and really notice what they’re doing well. The Google perks and distilled tips above should help you pull together the best company perks you can offer on a scale that fits your company vision and budget. But don’t forget to keep your finger on the pulse! Researching new and exciting benefits will ensure your employees get the best from your company—and that effort is really what helps you build and maintain a strong team.
At Inproma, we offer your employees the perks and rewards they really want. Through our fully customized approach, we help companies like yours set up employee recognition programs that reduce turnover and increase motivation. Want to get involved? Let’s talk.
