What Employees Value More Than a Pay Rise (And Why)

Why support, wellbeing, and balance now matter more than salary alone

For years, pay was seen as the ultimate motivator.

Offer more money, and people stay. Offer less, and they leave.

But times have changed.

Today’s employees are looking for something deeper - security, wellbeing, flexibility, and purpose.

And while salary will always matter, it’s no longer the only factor people use to judge whether a workplace is worth staying in.

Let’s explore what employees really value in 2025 - and how businesses can respond.

It’s Not Just About the Money

Financial reward is still important, especially in a cost-of-living crisis.

But research consistently shows that non-financial benefits have a greater long-term impact on engagement and loyalty.

What people value most today is:

• Feeling supported when life gets difficult

• Having flexibility to manage personal commitments

• Working somewhere that genuinely cares about their wellbeing

That’s not something a pay rise alone can provide.

1. Wellbeing and Mental Health Support

After the challenges of recent years, wellbeing is no longer an optional extra - it’s an expectation.

Employees want employers who recognise the realities of modern life: stress, burnout, financial pressure, and the importance of balance.

Benefits such as:

• Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)

• Health Cash Plans

• Private Medical Insurance

…show your business is serious about wellbeing, not just productivity.

These are small, meaningful ways to show care - and they make a big difference in how employees feel about where they work.

2. Access to Health and Security

In an era of long NHS waiting times and rising living costs, benefits that offer speed, certainty, and reassurance are highly valued.

PMI, Cash Plans, and Group Protection cover don’t just protect employees - they protect families.

That sense of security is priceless, especially for those with dependants.

3. Flexibility and Trust

More than ever, employees want control over how and where they work.

Flexible working, hybrid arrangements, and autonomy create a sense of respect and trust.

When people feel trusted, they repay that trust through loyalty and effort.

And when flexibility is paired with benefits that support wellbeing - it’s even more powerful.

4. A Sense of Belonging and Purpose

People want to feel part of something meaningful.

A culture where achievements are recognised, opinions are heard, and wellbeing is prioritised creates pride and connection.

Salary may attract someone to a job - but culture and care are what make them stay.

5. Clear Communication and Transparency

It’s not enough to offer good benefits - employees need to understand them.

Simple, clear communication shows you want your people to use the support available.

Regular updates, reminders, and accessible information all help employees feel seen and supported.

Why This Matters for Employers

When businesses invest in wellbeing, the results are clear:

• Reduced absence

• Improved retention

• Higher engagement

• Stronger reputation as an employer of choice

And it’s not about spending more - it’s about spending smart.

A small investment in the right benefits can have a bigger impact than a much larger salary increase.

Final Thoughts on what Employees Value

People may join a company for pay, but they stay for how that company makes them feel.

By focusing on wellbeing, flexibility, and real-world support, you can create a workplace that attracts great people - and keeps them.

Because in the end, it’s not just about payroll.

It’s about people.

Speak to Excellect to explore how you can strengthen your employee wellbeing and benefits strategy.