This is a guest post by Mike Szczesny
When looking at a new job offer, it’s easy to get caught up in all the excitement of a new position and forget that there are other things to consider. One of those important considerations is the benefits package you’ll receive. When you start a new job, it’s standard that your employer will offer you certain benefits that are part of your compensation package.
And what is a benefits package exactly? A benefits package is a company’s offer to pay for certain expenses related to your employment. Costs covered usually include things like health insurance and retirement plans. Benefits are typically designed to help employers attract and keep employees, so they should be just that: benefits. They can also make employees feel like they’re being taken care of, which makes them more loyal.
If you’ll be investing your time, energy, and passion into your work, it’s important to know that your chosen company will do the same for you. If you’re considering a new job, it’s important to think about, question, and understand how your benefits package will impact your life.
Here are some questions you can ask your employer to get you started:
How Long Do I Have To Work Before The Benefits Start?
Good question. Some companies will give you benefits immediately, while others may require you to work there for a year or more. It may be easier to plan short-term individual or family coverage if you have immediate coverage. So, try to ask the right questions and negotiate to get the best you can. You can convince the employer to give you your benefits immediately, especially if you are starting from a higher position.
Do I Get Health Insurance?
Whether or not you’re offered health insurance will depend on the job you’re applying for and which state it’s located in. While it’s becoming increasingly common for employers to offer health insurance, some jobs still require that employees buy their coverage through an individual policy. If this is the case with your new job, be sure that you understand how much your coverage will cost each month so that you can budget accordingly.
Otherwise, you might need to ask your employer if the company is registered under health insurance. Here are a few more health insurance questions you might want to ask:
- Will the insurance also cover my family members?
- How much of the premium cost do I have to pay for myself or my family?
- Can I choose different levels of coverage?
- What type of coverage is present for dental, vision, and disability insurance?
- Does the company offer flexible spending accounts?
- Will I have to contribute to the benefit plan? If yes, how much?
Is My Spouse Covered Under The Benefit Plan?
If your spouse works at another job, they may not be eligible for any benefits from your new employer. If this concerns you (or if they were planning on joining your new company), then make sure that both of your benefits packages are aligned before signing anything.
Do The Benefits Include Corporate Awards?
Despite all the changes in the modern workplace, the importance of showing appreciation to employees and rewarding them with awards has remained the same. Corporate awards, such as custom trophies, can also assist employers in retaining talent. It’s straightforward: workers who feel appreciated and respected by their employers are considerably less likely to look for work elsewhere. Companies that provide corporate awards to their employees for their accomplishments are more likely to keep their best employees on staff and avoid high turnover rates.
Is There A Limit On How Much Vacation An Employee Can Take Per Year?
Employers usually offer vacation time, often referred to as PTO, through accrual-based processes. However, some organizations have more flexible and even unlimited PTO policies. You’ll want to inquire whether you earn PTO gradually or take a particular number of days off each year.
It’s essential to ask about vacation time to learn how many days off you can take throughout the year without losing pay. Typically, you can use this paid time off for whatever you’d like, such as necessary self-care ventures, like doctor’s visits, or to take a trip across the country with your family or friends.
It’s not something that many people look forward to, particularly if they’re starting a new job. But benefits packages are important to your overall financial well-being. Therefore, consider it a good opportunity to learn some important things about your company and educate them about what you need from your benefits package. With the questions above, you’ll get a better idea of what you may want to ask about and how you can use your benefits package more effectively to meet your needs. While these questions don’t cover everything, they should help start the conversation.
Mike Szczesny is the owner and vice president of EDCO Awards & Specialties, a dedicated supplier of employee recognition products such as custom trophies, branded merchandise, and athletic awards. Szczesny takes pride in EDCO’s ability to help companies go the extra mile in expressing gratitude and appreciation to their employees. He resides in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.