An Atlanta firm makes work life balance easier with some unusual add-ons for employees.
The firm has engaged several companies that provide personal services, often at a discount. One, for example, delivers ready-to-cook meals to the office, which gives employees a quick-fix dinner to take home that isn’t fast food.
Errand service
There’s also an onsite concierge who is “at everyone’s beck and call.” She’s available for personal errands such as picking up laundry, taking a car in for repair, or buying and delivering a gift. Some employees even have standing appointments with her to buy groceries, and each week they send her the grocery list. The fee is about 20 per cent of the fee charged elsewhere.
Finding answers
Beyond the in-house services, the firm has engaged a work/life research and referral company that acts much like a time-saving personal Internet service. Employees tell the company what needs they have and the company researches their requests and comes back with recommendations. For example, an employee with an autistic child might ask for recommendations for a school that fits the family’s location and budget.
The possible search topics are extensive. They include child care resources such as in-home care, tutors, and day camps. Employees can also get referrals for college planning, eldercare, housing, financial planning, and even pet services. The firm covers the entire expense so there is no cost to the employees.
Help for families
Many of the firm’s other benefits focus on family life, with favorable parental leave for births and adoptions, education for prospective parents, parental support groups and even scholarships for employees’ children. Licenced child care providers are available for in-home care of sick children. Child care benefits are extensive.
The firm has set up a care center in a nearby building for infants and school-age children. It’s solely for employees and is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
These family services are provided at little or no cost to employees.
The firm reports the success in retaining valuable staff outweigh the costs of these employee benefits.