CHICAGO, May 12 (UPI) -- A Chicago outplacement firm said Wednesday that employee perks, a reliable barometer of job market strength, are making a comeback.
"While not as extravagant as the employee perks offered in the late 1990s, companies are clearly shifting their focus from workforce reduction to workforce retention," said John A. Challenger of Challenger, Gray & Christmas.
"Companies are still proceeding cautiously when it comes to hiring. However, some realize that in order to be a part of the recovery -- regardless of how slow it is -- they will require a foundation of experienced, trained and motivated workers," said Challenger.
Among recent examples of employer perks:
-- giving top performers tickets to this year's Masters golf tournament;
-- paying $1,200 per month for concierge services despite going through Chapter 11 bankruptcy;
-- giving a free shuttle service so that employees can avoid the stress of commuting
-- helping "de-stress" employees by providing a quiet room with overstuffed chairs for reading or napping; and
-- making breakfast for associates and support staff.
