Benefits October 8, 2004

Canadians Like Flexible Schedules

October 8, 2004 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Maybe Canadians just like it because it allows them more time for hockey, but the job perk most appreciated by employees in Canada is a flexible work schedule.
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According to a survey of Canadian CFOs developed by temporary staffing firm Accountemps, 40% of respondents felt that employees appreciated having a schedule that was not set in stone was the most important benefit in the workplace. Following this was spot bonuses (ranked as the most important by 25% of CFOs), extra time off (13%), and retirement savings plan (10%). Rounding out the list were equity incentives (6%) and health-care benefits/health insurance (2%).

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It should be noted that in Canada, unlike the US, health-care costs are covered by the federal and provincial governments, and not usually by employers.

“Lean staffing levels mean many employees are working longer hours. At the same time, a growing number of professionals must meet mounting personal obligations, including caring for children and elderly relatives,” said Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps, in a press release. “For this ‘sandwich generation’ of employees, increased control of their time enables them to balance competing demands.”

Accountemps ( www.accountempts.com ) has over 325 offices worldwide, and specializes in staffing services for temporary accounting, finance, and bookkeeping firms.

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