10 Must-Have Perks For Remote Employees In 2024

Remote work is the new normal, and as a caring employer, you want to make sure your team feels supported and motivated.

But there are so many “remote employee perks” out there that it’s become confusing to figure out which ones are genuinely helpful and which are just quick trends.

In the world of remote work, your employees are also facing challenges. They’re managing their work and personal life — possibly from the other side of the globe!

How do you support them? How do you increase their productivity, well-being, and happiness?

Perks can give you real results in all those areas…but you don’t want to waste time or resources on perks that won’t really make a difference. You need perks that match your company’s values, budget, and your employees’ needs.

So, which perks truly improve the remote work experience? In this article, we’ll introduce you to the 10 must-have perks for remote employees in 2024.

But first, let’s cover why these perks are so important.

Why Should Remote Employees Have Perks?

There are many answers to this question, which just shows how important employee perks are.

Here are six big reasons:

1. Boosted Morale & Well-Being

Working remotely can sometimes feel like being alone on an island. Without the traditional office workmates, finding ways to keep your remote employees engaged and inspired can be difficult.

This is where perks come into play. Whether it’s access to wellness programs, discounts on everyday essentials, or perks that support their families, these little gestures can go a long way. According to research, 91% of Gen-Zs and 78% of millennials believe every company should implement a mental health policy for employees.

When your team feels appreciated, their morale soars and their spirits are lifted.

2. Enhanced Productivity

A happier employee is a more productive employee. And while remote work offers many advantages, it can sometimes blur the boundaries between professional and personal life — leading to burnout.

This is where perks can make a huge difference. Unlimited paid time off or lifestyle amenities can give your team peace of mind and ways to recharge their work batteries. When they return to work, they’re more focused and energized.

It’s a win-win for your employees and your business.

3. Better Hiring & Retention

The job market is fiercely competitive, especially for top talent. These individuals have a bigger job pool than regular employees, and they expect more than just a regular paycheck.

You can set yourself apart by offering attractive perks that help you stand out as an employer of choice. The right perks attract the best candidates and play a significant role in retaining your current stars.

According to MetLife, 73% of employees would be encouraged to stay with their current employer longer if offered more benefits. Employees who feel appreciated and supported are more likely to stay with your company — saving you the time and money related to high employee turnover.

4. A Sense Of Belonging

Remote employees are more at risk for feeling disconnected from their colleagues and the company.

The right perks can help them feel more connected to everyone else. Programs that promote professional development or employee discount programs can give remote employees opportunities to learn and grow within your organization.

5. Stress Reduction

Remote work comes with its share of stress. The isolation, the blurred lines between work and personal life, and the uncertainties can affect your remote team’s mental health.

The right perks can help employees cope with these challenges. Mental health and wellness benefits, for instance, can provide access to counseling, courses, or even retreats that help reduce stress levels.

Employees who are less stressed are more positive about their work — and they’re often happier.

6. Family Support

Many remote employees are juggling their work responsibilities with family life.

According to Maven Clinic, 87% of employers rank family benefits high among prospective and current employees. That’s why providing perks that support family life, such as childcare assistance, can be a game-changer.

These perks help reduce the stress and pressures remote employees face when trying to balance their professional and personal roles. Moreover, they send a powerful message that your company cares about their work and their personal lives.

All in all, these aren’t just perks — they’re investments in your remote team’s happiness, productivity, and overall job satisfaction.

10 Perks For Remote Employees In 2024

In remote work times, keeping your remote team happy and motivated is the name of the game. That’s why it’s essential to offer perks that align with the HR trends of 2024.

So, let’s jump into these 10 amazing perks for your remote employees:

Perk #1: Wellness Perks

Let’s start with the basics: your team’s well-being.

Wellness perks can range from virtual yoga sessions to meditation apps or even subscriptions to health and fitness platforms. These perks are all about helping your employees take care of themselves, both mentally and physically; to that end, they can reduce stress, improve work-life balance, and boost morale.

Perk #2: Discounts On Prescription Drugs

Healthcare costs can be a burden, even for remote employees.

Offering discounts on prescription drugs gives them a financial break. This perk ensures they have access to necessary medications without breaking the bank, relieving a significant source of potential stress.

Perk #3: Unlimited PTO

Unlimited paid time off (PTO) is a game-changer.

It allows your remote team to take a break whenever they need it most. Whether it’s for a vacation, personal matters, or just recharging, this flexibility is important for reducing burnout and maintaining productivity.

Perk #4: Childcare

Balancing work and family life is a daily challenge for many remote employees.

Childcare perks, which can include subsidies or access to childcare services, offer a lifeline to working parents. They provide financial relief and peace of mind, enabling your team to focus on their work without the added stress of juggling family responsibilities.

Perk #5: Lifestyle Amenities

Who says remote employees can’t enjoy some luxury?

Lifestyle amenities can include access to premium subscription services, concierge services, or even pet care perks. These perks make daily life more enjoyable and less stressful.

Perk #6: Professional Development Perks

The world of work is constantly evolving, and professional development perks help your remote employees stay ahead of the curve.

Whether it’s online courses or certifications — or maybe even workshops — professional development perks promote individual growth and contribute to the progress of your organization.

Perk #7: Flexible Work Schedules

One of the beauties of remote work is flexibility. A flexible schedule helps remote employees maximize what they already love about their remote jobs: their freedom.

Whether they are night owls or early birds or have certain things they like to do during the morning or afternoon, this perk lets them find the balance that suits them best.

Perk #8: Remote Team-Building Activities

Building camaraderie among remote employees is crucial.

Virtual team-building activities or tools for team bonding strengthen your remote team’s relationships, creating a sense of togetherness even though they may be miles apart.

Perk #9: Health & Fitness Subscriptions

Physical health is a cornerstone of overall well-being.

Subscriptions to health and fitness platforms cater to various preferences, from yoga and HIIT workouts to meditation and nutritional guidance. They help your remote employees stay active, healthy, and full of energy.

Perk #10: Employee Discount Programs

Last but not least, an employee discount program like Abenity is extremely helpful (and more convenient, too!).

It’s a one-stop shop for perks like subscriptions, memberships, insurance, travel, and even savings at major retailers. And it’s all about making your remote employees’ lives more affordable and enjoyable. You can take advantage of many of the suggestions above through such a program!

Make Your Remote Team Stronger With These Perks

Providing the right perks to your team is like painting a bright future for your organization.

As we’ve explored the 10 perks tailored for remote employees in 2024, it’s clear that these offerings go beyond mere checkboxes. They are the tools that can reshape your remote team’s experience, making it more fulfilling and satisfying. And if you want to make your remote team happier and more productive, it’s time to consider these perks seriously.

So, why wait? Put them into action and see the positive changes they can bring to your organization. Try them out, experiment, and customize them to suit your team’s unique needs and desires.

Travis Gravette is the CEO of Abenity, an employee perks program. This article is part of Buildremote’s contributor series. Occasionally, we’ll share other people’s ideas about running a remote company. If you have a topic you’d like to pitch for Buildremote, send us an idea here.