Beyond Salary: Why Benefits Attract Top Talent
Salary Is No Longer Enough
While salary will always be important, candidates in 2025 want more than just a pay cheque. A Glassdoor survey revealed that 60% of job seekers say benefits and perks are a major factor in deciding whether to accept an offer. Flexible working, wellbeing support, pensions and development opportunities now matter as much as pay.
Generational Preferences in Benefits
Different generations value different benefits:
Gen Z prioritises flexibility, mental health support and career development.
Millennials seek family-friendly benefits like enhanced parental leave.
Gen X and Boomers often value pensions, stability and healthcare.
Employers that tailor their offerings to meet diverse needs gain a competitive edge in attracting and retaining talent.
The Benefits That Really Move the Needle
The benefits candidates talk about most are flexible working arrangements, wellness programmes, parental leave and clear progression opportunities. These demonstrate care for the whole person and their family, not just their productivity.
UK Employers Leading the Way
Companies like Deloitte and PwC have introduced enhanced parental leave and wellbeing programmes, while smaller businesses are competing by offering flexibility and personalised benefits. It’s not always about spending more, it’s about aligning benefits with values.
C&C Insights: Benefits Over Salary
At C&C Search, we’ve seen candidates turn down higher-paying offers in favour of roles with stronger benefits that better suit their lifestyle. This is particularly true in finance and professional services, where long hours and high pressure make wellbeing and flexibility essential.
Why SMEs Should Pay Attention
Smaller firms often worry they can’t compete with corporate salaries, but they can win talent with thoughtful, values-led benefits. Perks like hybrid working, development budgets and wellbeing allowances often resonate more than big salaries without support.
Not sure if your benefits package is competitive? C&C Search can provide real-time market insights and benchmarks to help you design benefits that attract and retain top talent. Contact hello@candcsearch.co.uk
