Remuneration – What’s your currency?

As a busy new mum and small business owner, I was looking for more than just $$ when looking for my next role. Life is busy and unpredictable, especially with a 7 month old baby, so I needed an employer who was willing to be flexible. Modern day life is rarely just about the $$ anymore, so when thinking about your remuneration package, what's your currency?

These days, most of us want it all. The job, the house, a family, holidays, education and a healthy, active lifestyle. This is hard to do if you’re a stay at home parent, single income family, work a 50 hours week with an extra 15 hours travel time or even have a traditional 9-5 role with 20 days leave a year.

Remuneration discussions can be (you can fill in the gap). Perhaps you have just been offered a new role and it’s time to negotiate, or  you are in a role and feel you’re worth more. Obviously, the salary is usually main point of focus here, however other components often come in to play, especially if a) The right money isn’t on the table or b) You want more in life than just a paycheck.

 

What's your currency when it comes to a work life balance.

What’s my priority?

For me personally, it was more than just money that drew me back to working. I was missing the professional world, intelligent conversations, brain storming, (Friday wines) and feeling inspired. Yes, I wanted to be paid what I was worth, but more importantly, I needed a role I loved doing and an employer who was willing to be flexible. I needed flexibility about where and when I worked and this flexibility needed flexibility within itself, for when things cropped up.

I thought this type of role would be near impossible to find, and yet I found that more employers were starting to come around to a more flexible way of thinking. For me it was hours and working remotely, for others it will be different.

So, my question to you, what’s your currency?

FWA (flexible working arrangments)

Originally, I assumed this was more of an option for working parents like myself. However, after reading a number of articles, it seems more of the top professions are wanting a work/life balance, not just for family, but for mental health and enjoyment. In fact, in a number of Western Australian Law Firms, FWA has increased engagement, productivity, and helped keep turnover low.

it is thought that is flexibility can result in ‘Increased morale, reduced burnout, access to a larger talent pool and increased trust within their workplace.’

FWA can include changes to your hours, days or place of work. All of which can make a huge difference to a person’s life. Of course, not all roles will have this option available and if you plan to ask for this arrangement, you will want to have a clear plan in place. A plan that is of benefit to both you and your employer. It is also important to keep in mind the word flexible as you will need to show flexibility yourself.

You can read more about Flexible Working Arrangements on the Employment NZ website.

upskilling in the workplace makes you more appealing to current and future employers

Upskilling

Upskilling is of benefit to both you and your employer and is a great way of making yourself more valuable in the workplace. Some courses can come with a hefty price tag and you may need days of work; all the more reason to make this part of your remuneration package.

Once upon a time, upskilling seemed impossible, a university degree or diploma. Either you had to study full time or have a job, night school and  a 6+ year Diploma. However, with the number on online learning facilities growing both nationally and internationally, it has never been easier or more convenient to up-skill.

A recent article in Scoop Independent News stated that 3 out of 4 employers prioritise employees who are willing to upskill. This negotiation therefor works two fold, you look more appealing to you employer with your drive and ambition, plus you get up-skilled which works well for both your current and future employment opportunities.

‘A Hays survey of over 2,000 people found 77% of employers are more likely to shortlist a candidate who has regularly upskilled.’ 

 

Leave and Holiday Pay – paid or unpaid

The average position in New Zealand comes with 20 days paid holiday leave. However, if you are planning an overseas holiday, have school aged children or family overseas, these 20 days may not be enough. Negotiating extra days of leave, whether paid or unpaid, can make life easier and more enjoyable.

Or maybe you just want a little cherry on top?

-A car park

-Petrol Card

-Health Insurance

-Gym membership

 

It’s all food for thought now (pun intended). But next time you go in to negotiate your salary package, think outside the box. What will make your life better?  

Thinking about a new role? Check out our vacancies and let us negotiate the best deal for you.