In a job market that has forever been changed by the COVID-19 pandemic, companies are reevaluating their job benefits in order to keep their current employees happy and attract potential hires.

The fact of the matter is that workplace offerings have changed a lot over the past couple of years. Job benefits that may not have ever seemed like a possibility are now critical for a company’s attraction and retention efforts. In other words, professionals not only have more control at the negotiation table, but they also have more options when it comes to workplace benefits and other perks.

[The Future Of Work: Job Market Trends For 2022]

For those considering a job change, you’ll want to inquire about job benefits in an interview. To dig a little deeper, here are a few questions you can ask depending on your priorities:

Do you support remote work?

As companies determine what type of work environment they want to implement post-pandemic, this is an important (and subtle) question to ask if location flexibility is an important job benefit for you. Not only will asking help you evaluate whether the company is the right fit for you, but the way in which they answer can reveal a lot. For example, if they are detailed and direct in their response, this is a good sign that there are clear plans and expectations in place. If they are non-committal or vague, you might want to proceed with caution or try to negotiate for more flexibility once you get closer to the offer stages.

Are there any other flexible work arrangements offered?

Many companies have realized that productivity should be measured by results, not hours. The most forward-thinking companies even understand that different employees might be their most productive at different times or from different locations. As a result, they are recognizing flexibility as one of their true job benefits. To help you uncover what flexibility looks like at a prospective company, you can ask this question directly or ask more subtle questions about work-life balance, paid time off, and the company’s culture. Note: if you have a specific scheduling requirement that is critical to your needs, it’s best to be more direct as you get closer to the offer stages. This way you know if it’s even a possibility.

What professional development opportunities do you offer?

According to our research, lack of professional development is a top driver of employee turnover. If you are leaving your role due to this reason, you’ll want to ensure your new employer prioritizes career development. Whether that’s through upskilling opportunities, offering to cover the cost of professional development classes, or mentorship opportunities, you should ask how your potential employer can help you grow in your career.

What technology resources will you be providing, if any?

If you’re interviewing for a role with a company that offers a remote or hybrid work environment, it’s reasonable to ask about technology resources or if they offer a stipend for getting set up. In order to stay competitive, companies have had to make significant investments in technology not just for employees, but to improve communication and efficiency across the board. The answer to this question can help you understand any potential financial costs, the company’s infrastructure setup, and how well the organization functions operationally.

Can I review a summary of health insurance plan options, as well as any other medical benefits offered?

Asking about formal job benefits like health insurance can be a tricky topic to navigate, but it is an important part of the job search process. As a result, you don’t want to ask this question until you are getting closer to an offer (and are leaning toward taking it). Once you receive the plan options, you’ll want to consider the entire package. While health insurance coverage is critical, pay attention to other factors like mental health benefits and other wellness initiatives. These are signs that the employer prioritizes (and invests in) the overall health and wellbeing of staff.

To learn more about expanded employee benefits and evolving workplace policies, check out our 2022 Future Of Work Report.