12 Work Perks You’re Not Asking For But Definitely Should Be
Many people focus on salary when negotiating job offers, but this approach can result in thousands of dollars in lost compensation over time. Perks can add up quickly in real value. According to Glassdoor, over 60% of job seekers prioritize benefits and perks over a higher paycheck. Here are 15 perks to consider asking for.
Paid Time Off Can Be More Valuable Than You Think
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A week of extra PTO could be worth $1,500 or more, depending on your salary. As per SHRM, paid leave is one of the most negotiated non-salary perks. Employers may be more flexible with time than cash, especially if they can stagger your absence to maintain coverage.
Get Your Commute Subsidized Or Shortened
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INRIX reports that the average U.S. commuter loses 54 hours per year sitting in traffic. Some employers may offset this by offering a stipend or flexible working hours. If you’re taking public transit, ask about tax-advantaged commuter benefits. Up to $300 per month can be deducted pre-tax.
You Can Ask For A Conference Budget
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Professional development helps everyone. Ask for a yearly budget for training or attending industry events. According to the Association for Talent Development, companies that invest in employee learning see 218% higher income per employee. Even $1,000 a year for seminars could give your career a serious boost.
Push For A Clear 30-Day Onboarding Plan
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Starting a new job without clear direction can leave you spinning your wheels for weeks. It’s worth asking what your first month will actually look like. Will there be shadowing? Check-ins? A training outline? Executive coaches often point out that a solid onboarding plan sets the tone for performance and retention. You don’t need it to be rigid, but a roadmap helps you settle in faster and avoid guessing what’s expected.
Arrange Tuition Assistance, Especially If You’re Still Paying Off School
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If you’re still paying off school, it’s smart to bring it up during negotiations. Many companies can offer monthly contributions to your loans instead of a standard raise. It’s often cheaper for them, and the IRS lets employers write off up to $5,250 per year in education assistance. It’s not always advertised, but it’s negotiable. You’re definitely not the only one thinking about it: over half of U.S. adults with student debt say it shapes how they approach their career.
Food Stipends Can Save You Hundreds A Month
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Some offices offer daily or weekly food stipends that partner with nearby restaurants. Zety.com’s HR head, Piotr Sosnowski, points out that this saves workers time and money. Especially for jobs in a high-cost area, food benefits quietly boost your take-home value without raising your tax bill.
Stock Options Aren’t Just For Tech Executives
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Is your employer pre-IPO, or does it offer equity? Stock options might be negotiable. Jacob Dayan from Finance Pal recommends asking if options can balance a lower salary. Just remember that this comes with risk, so get some clarity on vesting schedules and company valuation.
You Can Negotiate For A Gym Or Wellness Stipend
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Companies like Microsoft and Google provide fitness stipends because healthier employees take fewer sick days. Even smaller companies may offer $50 to $100 per month toward gym memberships or wellness programs. Some apps can also be compensated for.
Flexible Schedules Help Parents And Non-Parents Alike
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Working four 10-hour days instead of five 8-hour ones can ease childcare costs or improve your work-life balance. A Gallup poll revealed that 54% of workers with flex schedules feel they do better work. You don’t have to have kids to benefit from time flexibility.
Work-From-Home Fridays
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If the job’s mostly in-office, ask about working from home on Fridays. It’s not just about comfort—remote days often mean fewer distractions and better focus. For companies, it’s a low-cost perk with high return: improved morale, less burnout, and often better work. Even one day a week adds up over time, for both sides.
Don’t Forget About Severance
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You don’t need to wait for bad news to bring it up. A short conversation about exit terms can make things more transparent for both sides. Career strategist Jack Kelly points out that negotiating severance upfront shows maturity and planning. It’s not pessimistic—it’s smart, especially when things don’t always go as expected.
Request Extra Vacation Without Pay Docking
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Even if the job offers “unlimited” vacation, some managers may silently discourage taking time off. Ask for a guaranteed number of days in writing. That way, there’s no ambiguity. It also makes leaving easier if the policy offers no accrual and you’re not reimbursed for unused time.
Ask for Home Office Support Instead
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If remote work is part of the deal—even just occasionally—it’s fair to ask for a small home office stipend. A one-time setup allowance or monthly tech support budget (for internet or equipment) can make a real difference. Many companies already offer this, so bring it up. It’s an easy, low-cost perk to approve.
Negotiate Paid Parental Leave, Even If It’s A Few Years Away
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Only 23% of U.S. workers have access to paid parental leave, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you’re thinking about having a child in the next five years, it’s worth asking now. Many startups are willing to match or beat corporate standards to stay competitive.
Consider Alternating Shift Schedules To Save Money
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Swapping a standard 9-to-5 for four longer days can free up time and cut weekly costs. Fewer commutes and one less day of childcare each week can add up quickly. Workplace consultant Suzanne Malausky points out that this kind of schedule can also lower burnout and give you more control without asking for more pay.