Unlocking the best job perks: What to look for and what to avoid

Hunting for a new job can be overwhelming, with countless factors to weigh—from salary to work culture and everything in between. However, one job market trend in particular is catching many candidates' attention: enticing job perks.?

Today, many organizations are rolling out the red carpet with a wealth of perks to attract and retain top talent, and you could be the lucky beneficiary of these incentives—if you know how to separate the diamonds from the duds. Not all perks sparkle; some shine brightly, while others are mere fool’s gold. In her recent story for Forbes, senior contributor Tracy Brower helps job seekers identify which perks are truly worthwhile when evaluating job offers. Here is a list of employee perks that are worth looking out for:

• Perks that support well-being: Your health is your wealth, and smart employers know it. Look for perks that demonstrate an employer’s commitment to your overall health, such as stipends for gym memberships, blood pressure screenings or wellness classes. These perks can be a game changer for your physical and mental well-being.
• Perks that support your quality of life: Flexibility and convenience are the unsung heroes of job perks. Be on the lookout for commuting stipends, shuttle services, childcare benefits and remote work options. These perks can make your daily life smoother and more enjoyable.
• Perks that support your experience: Look for updated office spaces with areas for privacy, collaboration and socializing. Features that reduce friction, such as phone booths for taking private calls, can significantly enhance your work experience.

Be cautious of perks that are all show with no substance. Free lunches without communal spaces, unused recreational equipment and unsupported affinity groups can be more frustrating than fulfilling. When comparing job offers, make sure you consider the meaning, variety and relatability of the perks being offered. Consider asking for specific perks during negotiations, and share more ideas once you’re hired. By focusing on meaningful benefits, you can enhance your work-life balance and overall job satisfaction.?

For even more information on which job perks are actually worthwhile, I highly recommend reading Tracy Brower’s full story.

Read the full story: 5 Work Perks That Everyone Should Look Out For

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Practical Advice: How To Prevent Remote Work From Slowing Your Career

In a previous Forbes Edge newsletter, we discussed how remote work isn’t for everyone—and why some people actually prefer working in an office. This week, we have a story for those who want to work remotely but have concerns about it negatively affecting their career growth.

To make remote work a long-term solution without sacrificing your career trajectory, a strategic approach is essential. You must be proactive about your career development, focusing on maintaining visibility and building your network. Forbes senior contributor Caroline Ceniza-Levine gives some essential strategies to ensure remote work propels rather than slows your career:

1. Look for success stories to emulate: Identify colleagues who work remotely and have been rewarded with promotions and other accolades. This proves a successful remote career is possible and can help you navigate your own path. Observe how these colleagues maintain visibility, handle communication and manage their workload. And reach out to them for advice and mentorship, if possible.
2. Identify and mitigate career risks: Remote work can make you less visible. Maintain your network, stay proactive in meetings and actively seek out information. Don’t forget to regularly update your manager on your progress and accomplishments to ensure your work is recognized.

Caroline Ceniza-Levine offers even more advice on how to prevent remote work from hindering your career in her full story, so be sure to give it a read.

Read the full story: 4 Ways To Prevent Remote Work From Slowing Your Career

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Calling all success seekers:?

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Thank you for reading! We'll be back next week with another edition of Forbes Edge. If you missed Tuesday’s newsletter, check it out here for insight on how to say ‘no’ to protect your professional integrity.

This edition of Forbes Edge was written by Tavon Thomasson and curated by associate editor Chris Dobstaff.