Top Registered Nurse Benefits to Look for in a Job Offer
Whether you’re a new grad or a seasoned nurse, getting a job offer is always exciting. Do you have multiple offers? Congrats! Either way, no two jobs are the same when it comes to the actual work and the benefits you receive from employment. Commute time, work culture, nurse benefits, and salary are some factors to consider before starting a new job. Some nurses find that great benefits can make up for a long commute, lower salary, or other aspects of a new job that seem undesirable.
Some employers — like the VA — are known for having great benefits. On the flip side, there are others that provide the bare minimum. Nurses must look out for themselves just as much as they do for their patients, and it starts with educating yourself on industry standards and deciding if the benefits are right for you. Below, we explore various considerations when comparing registered nurse benefits.
Benefits That Provide a Sense of Security
It’s important to feel supported and for your employer to recognize that your life is bigger than your workplace. How do they help you create a stable and prosperous life outside of your career? Here are some things to look for:
- Health and life insurance plans
- Retirement plan
- Malpractice insurance
Benefits That Support Work-Life Balance
Speaking of living a full life outside of work, how will your benefits ensure balance between your career and everything else on your plate? You also need time off for leisure, to deal with unfortunate circumstances, and time with loved ones. Here are some examples of what to look for in your registered nurse benefits:
- Child care assistance
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Holiday and shift differential
Benefits That Reward Your Effort and Expertise
Does your company acknowledge the time and energy you’ve put into acquiring the skills to do this job? Do they recognize the effort it takes you to get to the workplace? A percentage of your income goes to your education and ensuring that you’re physically present for the job. Below are some examples of how your benefits could reflect that:
- Student loan repayment
- Tuition reimbursement
- Relocation reimbursement
- Commute reimbursement
Benefits That Cultivate Transparency and Positivity
Feeling supported at work is just as important as your workplace having your back outside of it. Promoting positive employee morale can make all the difference. Check out how an organization might contribute to a strong culture:
- They have a workers union
- They are leaders in the field
- Employee wellness benefits (i.e., counseling or gym membership)
Benefits That Provide Room to Grow
No one likes feeling stuck, so seeing if there’s room for advancement now can save you trouble down the road. If you remain content in your current position, great! Just make sure you’ve got options if that ever changes. Here are some ways an organization may help employees move up the ladder:
- In-house training and professional development
- Plenty of staff positions you could one day acquire
- Current employees receiving preference in the hiring process
Benefits That Offer Plenty of Perks
Now that we’ve explored the main registered nurse benefits, it’s time for the fun stuff. The list below may not make a significant impact on your life, but they’re still enticing nonetheless. Check out these goodies some employers offer:
- Sign-on bonus
- Options to work in other locations
- Grocery delivery, discounts at various stores, and other miscellaneous perks
How to Negotiate Benefits for Nurses
Now you know what’s available, so how do you increase your chances of getting the benefits you need and deserve? Our advice can get you started on the right track.
1. Learn Where You Have Wiggle Room
Some benefits can be altered, while others cannot. Find out which benefits you can negotiate, and see if there are any adjustments that need to be made. Research the industry standards so that you can make a stronger case in the event of pushback.
2. Prove Why You Need and Deserve Benefit Adjustments
Be ready to back up your requests. Think about which aspects of your life require changes to your benefits and why. How will this impact your work? Remember your worth, and don’t be afraid to state how what you bring to the table is well worth your requests.
3. Be Realistic About Your Needs and the Company’s Ability to Meet Them
Is your workplace well established or brand new? Do they appear to be financially healthy or just staying afloat? Are you able to readjust your requests in the event your future employer isn’t able to grant them? Your needs must align with reality. It can’t hurt to ask, but it helps to know what’s likely to happen based on your knowledge of the company’s capabilities.
Which Registered Nurse Benefits Are Right for You?
Everyone has unique needs, so make sure yours are being met. Once you’re confident in which benefits you’re looking for, find work that works for you by checking out current jobs on IntelyCare.