Reduce Employee Turnover: 5 Tips to Build Workforce Loyalty

Reduce Employee Turnover: 5 Tips to Build Workforce Loyalty

Finding great employees is only half the battle—keeping them is where the real challenge begins. With turnover rates climbing across many industries, investing in your current team isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

Asheville staffing companies know that retention is just as important as recruitment. Whether you manage a large manufacturing floor or a small office team, here are five actionable employee retention strategies that can help reduce turnover and build a more loyal, engaged workforce.

1. Start With Strong Onboarding

First impressions matter. A structured onboarding process helps new hires feel welcomed, supported, and prepared from day one. Clear communication, hands-on training, and early check-ins help set the tone for long-term success.

2. Offer Competitive Pay and Benefits

While money isn’t everything, it’s a major factor in employee satisfaction. Ensure your wages align with current market rates and offer meaningful benefits—like health coverage, paid time off, and schedule flexibility—to stay competitive.

3. Create Opportunities for Growth

Employees are more likely to stay when they see a future with your company. Offer:

  • Training programs

  • Mentorship opportunities

  • Clear promotion paths

  • Cross-training in different departments

Investing in skill development is one of the most powerful ways to build loyalty and improve retention.

4. Prioritize Recognition and Communication

Feeling appreciated goes a long way. Celebrate wins, both big and small. Regularly check in with your team, listen to their feedback, and create a culture where open communication is encouraged.

5. Partner With a Workforce Expert

Staffing agencies like Friday Services don’t just help you fill open roles—we help you find the right people for the job. We work with you to understand your culture, match candidates to your needs, and offer support beyond the hiring process to reduce turnover and boost retention.


Want to build a more loyal, long-term team?

Friday Services connects you with skilled, dependable employees—and helps you keep them. Contact us today to strengthen your workforce and reduce turnover with smarter hiring strategies and ongoing support. Contact us to get started.

Entry-Level Job Strategies for Those Without Experience

Entry-Level Job Strategies for Those Without Experience

Embarking on a job search without prior experience might seem daunting. However, many employers value potential, enthusiasm, and the willingness to learn over direct experience. Exploring temp jobs in Asheville NC can be a great way to gain hands-on experience, build your resume, and prove your value in a real-world setting. Here’s how you can position yourself effectively:

1. Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Even without formal work experience, you’ve likely developed skills applicable to the workplace through education, volunteering, or personal projects. These include:

  • Communication: Articulating ideas clearly and listening effectively.

  • Teamwork: Collaborating with others to achieve common goals.

  • Problem-Solving: Identifying issues and determining solutions.

  • Time Management: Prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines.

  • Adaptability: Adjusting to new situations and challenges.

Emphasizing these skills on your resume and during interviews can demonstrate your readiness for the job .

2. Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Customize your application materials for each job by:

  • Aligning your skills and experiences with the job description.

  • Using keywords from the job posting to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

  • Showcasing relevant coursework, projects, or volunteer work that align with the role .

3. Gain Experience Through Volunteering or Internships

Engaging in volunteer work or internships can provide hands-on experience, making you a more attractive candidate. These opportunities allow you to:

  • Develop industry-specific skills.

  • Build a professional network.

  • Demonstrate commitment to your chosen field .

4. Consider Apprenticeship Programs

Apprenticeships offer structured training, combining on-the-job experience with classroom instruction. They are ideal for individuals seeking to:

  • Learn a trade or skill from experienced professionals.

  • Earn while they learn.

  • Transition into full-time employment upon completion.

Friday Services offers apprenticeship programs that provide valuable experience and a pathway to a rewarding career.


Ready to Launch Your Career?

Don’t let a lack of experience hold you back. Explore Friday Services’ apprenticeship programs and take the first step toward a fulfilling career. Visit fridaycareers.com/apprenticeships to learn more and apply today.

How to Find Jobs During Uncertainty: A Guide to Recession-Proof Careers

How to Find Jobs During Uncertainty: A Guide to Recession-Proof Careers

Economic uncertainty can shake even the most confident job seeker. Whether you’re feeling the ripple effects of inflation, company downsizing, or a cooling job market, it’s natural to wonder: Is now a good time to look for work?

The answer is yes—especially if you know where to look and how to focus your search.

At Friday Services, we specialize in helping people find work across Western North Carolina, even in tough economic times. Here’s what you need to know about finding jobs during uncertainty and which recession-proof careers are thriving right now.

What Are Recession-Proof Careers?

Recession-proof careers are jobs that remain in demand even when the economy slows down. These often include roles in:

  • Healthcare – medical assistants, home health aides, administrative support

  • Skilled trades – electricians, machinists, HVAC technicians, welders

  • Manufacturing & production – assembly, quality control, warehouse roles

  • Administrative support – logistics, customer service, scheduling

These fields offer steady employment and often lead to long-term career growth—even in a downturn.

Industries That Are Hiring Right Now

Despite headlines about layoffs, many industries are still hiring. Western North Carolina employers are looking for dependable, motivated workers across multiple sectors:

  • Light industrial and manufacturing

  • Logistics and distribution

  • Administrative and clerical support

  • Skilled trades and maintenance

Many of these roles offer competitive pay, training opportunities, and benefits.

How to Stand Out in a Tough Economy

If you’re job hunting in a tight market, here’s how to improve your chances:

  • Update your resume – Make sure your most recent experience and skills are front and center.

  • Be open to temp or contract roles – These often lead to full-time offers.

  • Expand your skill set – Learn basic digital tools, safety certifications, or new trades.

  • Work with a staffing agency – Local agencies like Friday Services often know about jobs before they’re posted online.

How Friday Services Can Help You

We’ve been helping job seekers find meaningful work since 1980—and we’re still here for you today. Whether you’re looking for your next full-time opportunity or a temporary role to bridge the gap, we connect you with employers who are hiring right now.

We offer support with resumes, interview prep, job matching, and more. And the best part? It’s free to job seekers.

Looking for work? Let’s find your next job together.

Check out our latest openings and apply online at fridaycareers.com/jobs, or stop by one of our office in Asheville. Your next opportunity could be just around the corner!

Hiring During Economic Uncertainty: What Small Businesses Need to Know

Hiring During Economic Uncertainty: What Small Businesses Need to Know

When the economy gets unpredictable, business owners feel it first. Whether it’s rising costs, shifting demand, or supply chain hiccups, economic uncertainty can throw a wrench into even the best-laid hiring plans.

If you’re a small business trying to grow, you might be wondering:
Is now the right time to hire?
Will I find the right people?
What if things slow down next quarter?

These are real concerns—and you’re not alone in having them. But here’s the truth: there’s still room to grow—even in challenging times—and with the right hiring strategy, you can move forward with confidence.

At Friday Services, we help small businesses like yours stay focused on growth by managing the recruiting, screening, and HR legwork. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in the job market and how you can respond.

How Economic Uncertainty Affects the Job Market

Periods of uncertainty—whether caused by inflation, global events, or whispers of recession—tend to bring about cautious decision-making. Here’s how it impacts both employers and job seekers:

  • Hiring slows down, especially for full-time roles, as businesses try to preserve cash flow.

  • Job seekers grow cautious, often staying in roles longer instead of risking a move.

  • Contract, temp, and part-time roles increase, offering businesses more flexibility and candidates more options.

These shifts don’t mean growth isn’t possible—it just requires smart, flexible planning.

Hiring Trends in Uncertainty: What We’re Seeing Right Now

From our perspective working with small businesses across Western North Carolina, here’s what’s trending:

1. Agility is Key

Small businesses that stay nimble—offering part-time, project-based, or temporary roles—are able to grow without the long-term commitment of adding full-time staff right away.

2. Job Seekers Want Stability

Candidates are still looking for work, but they want transparency and stability. Clear communication, reliable hours, and supportive company cultures are major attractors right now.

3. The Right Talent Is Still Out There

Despite uncertainty, many highly qualified professionals are open to new opportunities—especially those offering better work-life balance, local stability, or a positive workplace.

Why Hiring During a Downturn Can Actually Be a Strategic Move

While it might seem counterintuitive, some of the best hiring happens during economic slowdowns. Here’s why:

  • Less competition for top talent: Fewer companies hiring means your job openings stand out more.

  • Improved candidate quality: Candidates who apply during uncertain times are often serious, reliable, and ready to work.

  • Opportunity to build loyalty: Employees hired during lean times often grow with the company and become some of its most loyal contributors.

How Friday Services Can Help You Hire Smarter

As a busy business owner, you’ve already got plenty on your plate. You shouldn’t have to worry about reviewing resumes, chasing down interviews, or navigating HR compliance. That’s where we come in.

At Friday Services, we help small businesses:

  • Quickly fill roles with qualified, vetted candidates

  • Reduce risk through project-based hiring, temporary and contract-to-hire staffing options

  • Handle HR details like onboarding, payroll, and compliance

  • Stay focused on what matters most—running your business

Whether you’re growing cautiously or preparing for a big expansion, our team is here to provide the hiring flexibility and support you need to thrive—even during uncertain times.

Keep Growing, Even When the Market’s Unsteady

You don’t need to put your business growth on hold just because the economy is shifting. With a partner offering trusted staffing services in Asheville, NC, you can move forward with confidence—knowing your staffing needs are covered and your time is freed up for more strategic decisions.

📞 Let’s talk about your hiring needs.
Our team is ready to help you find the right talent—so you can keep building your business, no matter what the economy brings.

Contact Friday Services today and let’s get to work.

Overqualified? Here’s How to Turn That Into Your Biggest Asset

Overqualified? Here’s How to Turn That Into Your Biggest Asset

You’ve spent years building your expertise. You’ve managed teams, delivered results, adapted to change, and mastered your craft. So why does it sometimes feel like all that experience is working against you when you apply for a job?

If you’ve ever heard, “We’re concerned you’re overqualified,” you’re not alone. Many seasoned professionals—those with 10, 20, or even 30 years in the workforce—face this challenge. But here’s the truth: being overqualified isn’t a flaw. It’s a competitive edge.

At Friday Services, we’re here to help you leverage your experience and show employers that hiring someone with your level of skill is a win—not a risk.

Why “Overqualified” Gets a Bad Rap

Sometimes, employers hesitate to hire experienced candidates because they’re afraid you’ll:

  • Be too expensive

  • Get bored and leave quickly

  • Have difficulty adapting to a less senior role

  • Overshadow younger team members or leaders

But these assumptions don’t tell your full story—and they certainly don’t reflect your work ethic, leadership, or adaptability. The challenge is positioning your experience as an advantage, and that’s where strategy comes in.

Turning “Overqualified” Into an Asset

1. Tailor Your Resume Strategically

Instead of listing every role you’ve had, focus on the experience that’s most relevant to the job you want now.

  • Use a skills-based format or a hybrid resume

  • Highlight recent accomplishments, not just long tenure

  • Showcase how you’ve stayed current with industry trends or technology

2. Address the Elephant in the Room—Early

Use your cover letter or interview to directly explain why you’re interested in the role, even if it’s not the highest level you’ve worked at.

  • Are you looking for better work-life balance?

  • Eager to work closer to home?

  • Want to contribute in a more hands-on way?
    Letting the employer know your “why” helps build trust and remove doubt.

3. Emphasize Your Mentorship Value

Senior-level professionals bring built-in leadership and coaching skills. Companies value team members who can guide, support, and elevate others.

  • Share examples of how you’ve mentored younger colleagues

  • Highlight times you’ve trained or onboarded new staff

4. Be Flexible—but Confident

Show that you’re open to change without underselling yourself. Flexibility doesn’t mean desperation—it means you’re adaptable, team-oriented, and ready to contribute.

What Employers Should See: The Value of Senior-Level Skills

✅ A fast learner who can hit the ground running
✅ A dependable professional who shows up and delivers
✅ A mentor who boosts team performance
✅ A seasoned problem-solver who stays cool under pressure
✅ A strong communicator who builds trust with clients and colleagues

When you work with Friday Services, we help employers see all of that—and more.

How Friday Services Can Help

We understand that experienced candidates want more than just a job—they want a role where their wisdom, work ethic, and leadership are valued. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start, a less demanding role, or a new industry, we’ll help you position your experience in a way that resonates with today’s employers.

We advocate for you. We listen to your goals. And we connect you with employers who appreciate the full value of your experience.

Your Experience Is Your Power—Own It

Being labeled “overqualified” doesn’t mean you’re unhireable—it means you’ve outgrown boxes that don’t fit anymore. And that’s a great place to be.

An experienced Asheville staffing agency can help you find a workplace that truly values everything you bring to the table.

Contact us and our professional workforce development team will reach out within one business day to discuss roles that align with your goals.

👉 Start your next chapter here.

Age Discrimination in the Job Market: You’re Never Too Young or Too Old to Succeed

Age Discrimination in the Job Market: You’re Never Too Young or Too Old to Succeed

Whether you’re just starting your career or you’ve got decades of experience, the job market can sometimes feel like it’s working against you. If you’re younger, employers may assume you lack experience. If you’re older, they might wonder if you’re “too experienced” or nearing retirement. This is age discrimination—and it’s more common than you think.

At Friday Services, we believe in an inclusive job market that values skill, potential, and the human behind the resume—regardless of age. Whether you’re 22 or 62, your career goals are valid, and there’s a place for you in today’s workforce.

Let’s break down how ageism shows up, how you can combat it, and how we can help you find a role that appreciates everything you bring to the table.

What Does Age Discrimination Look Like?

Ageism in hiring isn’t always obvious. It can show up in subtle ways, like:

  • Job listings that ask for a “digital native” or require 3-5 years of experience for entry-level roles.

  • Assumptions during interviews about energy levels, tech skills, or “culture fit.”

  • Ghosting or dismissive communication after seeing your graduation date or lengthy work history.

Whether you’re younger and overlooked because of your inexperience, or older and passed over due to assumptions about your adaptability, the effects can be frustrating—and unfair.

How to Combat Age Discrimination as a Job Seeker

The good news? There are strategies you can use to position yourself for success, no matter your age:

1. Focus on Your Strengths, Not Stereotypes

If you’re younger, highlight your fresh perspective, willingness to learn, and adaptability. If you’re older, showcase your reliability, experience, and leadership potential. Let your resume and interviews reflect the value you offer, not your birth year.

2. Update Your Skills—and Your Resume

Staying current with technology or industry trends helps challenge ageist assumptions. If you’re older, make sure your resume doesn’t include outdated software or irrelevant experience. If you’re younger, add internships, apprenticeships, projects, or freelance work to fill any experience gaps.

3. Practice Confident Interviewing

Whether you’re navigating your first interview or your fiftieth, approach it with confidence. Prepare to address any concerns head-on. For example, older candidates can emphasize adaptability and tech proficiency, while younger candidates can underscore initiative and enthusiasm.

4. Work With a Team That Sees Your Full Potential

This is where Friday Services comes in. We believe people of all ages bring something valuable to the workforce. Our team listens to your goals, understands your background, and matches you with jobs where you’ll thrive—no matter your age.

Age-Inclusive Workplaces Do Exist—We’ll Help You Find One

While ageism in hiring remains a challenge, more employers today are committed to building inclusive job markets that embrace multigenerational teams. These workplaces thrive on diverse perspectives, richer experiences, and more dynamic collaboration.

At a staffing agencies in Asheville NC like Friday Services, we partner with employers who prioritize fairness, inclusivity, and a strong work ethic. We advocate for you, support you, and help you step confidently into your next chapter.

Your age doesn’t define your worth in the job market—your skills, attitude, and dedication do. Don’t let age discrimination hold you back from the job you deserve. Let us help you take the next step toward a fulfilling and inclusive career.

Start fresh today with our Quick Application!

Submit your info online, and our workforce development team will reach out within one business day to discuss your goals and career options.

Midlife Career Change: How to Start Fresh and Find Your Next Great Opportunity

Midlife Career Change: How to Start Fresh and Find Your Next Great Opportunity

Thinking about a midlife career change? You’re not alone. Whether you’re feeling stuck, burned out, or just ready for something different, making a career reboot in your 40s (or beyond) can be both exciting and nerve-wracking.

The good news? This stage of life is actually the perfect time for starting fresh in your 40s. You’ve got valuable experience, strong work ethic, and a clearer sense of what you want. Employers today are also more open to hiring experienced professionals looking for new challenges.

At Friday Services, we specialize in helping job seekers at all stages of their careers, including those ready for a fresh start. Let’s explore why midlife is a great time for change and how you can confidently step into your next opportunity.

Why Midlife is the Perfect Time for a Career Change

You might be wondering, Is it too late to change careers? Absolutely not! In fact, there are plenty of advantages to making a career move at this stage:

You Know Yourself Better – You have years of experience to help guide your decisions. You know what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what you don’t want in a job.

You Have Transferable Skills – Your skills in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are valuable across multiple industries.

The Job Market is Evolving – Many industries are actively looking for experienced workers who can bring fresh perspectives and maturity to the workplace.

It’s Never Too Late to Learn – With so many resources available (from online courses to hands-on training programs), picking up new skills is easier than ever.

Midlife is not a career dead-end—it’s a launching pad for something new!

Career Options for a Midlife Reboot

Not sure what your next move should be? Here are some popular career paths for those making a midlife career change:

1. A New Role in Your Current Industry

Love your field but need a fresh start? Consider shifting into a different role within the same industry. If you’ve been in sales, maybe a move to marketing makes sense. If you’ve worked in healthcare, transitioning into medical administration might be a good fit.

💡 Pro Tip: Update your resume to highlight your transferable skills. Employers want to see how your experience applies to your new role.

2. A Completely New Industry

Sometimes, a total industry switch is the right move. Whether you’ve always dreamed of working in tech, healthcare, or manufacturing, now is the time to explore.

Industries with strong demand for workers include:
✔ Healthcare & Medical Administration
✔ Skilled Trades & Manufacturing
✔ Information Technology & Cybersecurity
✔ Logistics & Transportation

💡 Pro Tip: Many industries offer on-the-job training, meaning you don’t always need prior experience to start.

3. Temporary or Contract Work

If you’re unsure about committing to a full-time role right away, temp work is a fantastic way to explore different industries while earning a paycheck.

✔ Try out different roles with no long-term commitment.
✔ Build connections with companies that could lead to permanent positions.
✔ Gain new skills that enhance your resume.

💡 Pro Tip: At Friday Services, we offer temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct placement jobs in a variety of industries—perfect for those exploring new paths!

4. Starting Your Own Business or Freelancing

Have a passion project or side hustle that you’ve always wanted to pursue? Midlife might be the perfect time to turn it into a business.

✔ Offer consulting services based on your industry expertise.
✔ Sell handmade goods or start an online store.
✔ Try freelancing in writing, graphic design, or virtual assistance.

💡 Pro Tip: Start small! You don’t have to quit your job right away—test the waters before making the leap.

How to Make a Successful Midlife Career Change

Thinking about starting fresh in your 40s? Here’s how to make your transition smoother:

Update Your Resume & LinkedIn – Highlight transferable skills and relevant experience. If you’re switching industries, focus on how your past experience applies.

Gain New Skills – Take advantage of online courses, workshops, and certifications to build credibility in your new field.

Network, Network, Network! – Let people know you’re making a career change. Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, attend job fairs, and join local business groups.

Work with a Staffing Agency – If you’re unsure where to start, a workforce development team (like ours at Friday Services) can connect you with job opportunities that match your skills and career goals.

Your Next Chapter Starts Now – We Can Help!

Making a midlife career change isn’t about starting over—it’s about building on everything you’ve learned to create a future you love. Whether you’re seeking a career reboot, exploring a new industry, or just searching for fresh opportunities, you don’t have to navigate it alone.

At Friday Services, a trusted temp agency in Asheville, we specialize in helping professionals like you find meaningful work at any stage of life. Whether you’re interested in full-time positions, temporary jobs, or career training, we have the resources to help you succeed.

Ready to take the next step? Contact our professional workforce development team today and let’s find your perfect fit!

 Apply Now or call us to get started!

The Benefits of Having a Spanish-Speaking Workforce in Western North Carolina

The Benefits of Having a Spanish-Speaking Workforce in Western North Carolina

Western North Carolina is a region rich in culture, history, and diversity. As businesses grow and communities become more connected, the ability to communicate effectively with a broader audience is more important than ever. One of the most valuable assets a company can have today is a bilingual workforce, especially those fluent in Spanish.

With the Hispanic population in North Carolina growing by nearly 40% over the past decade, businesses that embrace Spanish-speaking employees aren’t just staying competitive—they’re thriving. Whether you’re in customer service, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, or any industry in between, having bilingual team members can bring incredible advantages to your workplace.

At Friday Services, we specialize in helping businesses find and develop top bilingual talent to create stronger, more inclusive teams. As one of the leading staffing agencies in Hendersonville NC, we understand how a diverse workforce can drive success. Let’s dive into how building such teams can benefit your business in Western North Carolina.

Bilingual Workforce Advantages: Why Spanish-Speaking Employees Are a Game-Changer

1. Expanding Your Customer Base

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the United States, and here in Western North Carolina, the Hispanic community is a vital part of the economy. Having Spanish-speaking employees means you can serve a broader customer base, making your business more accessible and welcoming.

  • Retail & Hospitality: A bilingual team can improve the shopping or dining experience for Spanish-speaking customers, increasing loyalty and sales.
  • Healthcare & Social Services: Patients and clients feel more comfortable when they can communicate in their preferred language, leading to better care and trust.
  • Manufacturing & Construction: Spanish-speaking workers can help bridge communication gaps on job sites, improving safety and efficiency.

When your customers feel understood, they’re more likely to return—and spread the word about their great experience.

2. Strengthening Workplace Communication & Teamwork

Miscommunication in the workplace can lead to mistakes, safety issues, and lost productivity. A bilingual workforce can help ensure that instructions, policies, and training materials are understood by everyone.

  • In manufacturing and construction, clear communication is critical to maintaining safety standards.
  • In customer service, bilingual employees can assist both Spanish-speaking and English-speaking customers seamlessly.
  • In team collaboration, having employees who can switch between languages makes it easier to resolve issues, work together, and foster a more inclusive culture.

A workplace that values diversity in the workplace sees stronger collaboration, fewer misunderstandings, and a positive team dynamic.

3. Enhancing Customer Service & Building Stronger Relationships

Great customer service is all about connection. When customers feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to trust your brand and recommend your business to others.

Having Spanish-speaking employees on your team can:
✔️ Provide a more welcoming experience for Spanish-speaking customers.
✔️ Help resolve customer concerns more efficiently.
✔️ Build long-term relationships and loyalty with the Hispanic community.

Imagine walking into a business where no one speaks your language—it can feel frustrating and isolating. By offering bilingual support, you’re showing customers that they matter and that your business is ready to meet their needs.

4. Boosting Productivity & Efficiency

A diverse workforce brings different perspectives, skills, and experiences to the table. Spanish-speaking employees often bring strong problem-solving abilities and adaptability, which can improve overall team performance.

  • Faster problem-solving: Employees who can communicate across language barriers can resolve workplace challenges more quickly.
  • Improved training programs: Bilingual employees can assist with onboarding and training new Spanish-speaking hires.
  • Higher employee morale: A workplace that values diversity tends to have happier, more engaged employees who stay longer and contribute more.

A bilingual team isn’t just a benefit—it’s a business advantage that improves efficiency and workplace satisfaction for everyone.

5. Attracting Top Talent & Strengthening Your Employer Brand

In today’s competitive job market, offering an inclusive and diverse workplace can help you attract top talent. Spanish-speaking employees appreciate workplaces that recognize their skills and contributions, and companies that embrace bilingualism stand out as progressive, forward-thinking employers.

By promoting a bilingual workforce, your company:
✔️ Appeals to a broader pool of job seekers.
✔️ Builds a reputation as a welcoming, inclusive workplace.
✔️ Stays ahead of competitors who may not prioritize language diversity.

Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, prioritizing diversity and language inclusivity will help you build a stronger, more connected workforce.

Embracing Spanish-speaking employees isn’t just a smart business move—it’s a way to create a more inclusive, dynamic, and successful company. From expanding your customer base to improving workplace communication and enhancing productivity, the benefits of a bilingual workforce are undeniable.

At Friday Services, we specialize in connecting businesses with top bilingual talent in Western North Carolina. Whether you’re looking to hire Spanish-speaking employees, improve your workplace diversity, or create a more inclusive culture, our professional workforce development team is here to help.

Let’s build a stronger, more inclusive workforce together! Contact Friday Services today to start finding the bilingual talent that will take your business to the next level.

📞 Call us today!

Getting Creative with Benefits Packages to Attract and Retain Top Talent

Getting Creative with Benefits Packages to Attract and Retain Top Talent

In today’s job market, salary alone isn’t enough to attract and retain top talent. Employees are looking for more—more flexibility, more wellness support, and more incentives that make their work-life balance easier. Employee benefits innovation is the name of the game, and businesses that offer creative perks are the ones keeping their teams happy and engaged.

At Friday Services, we work closely with businesses to develop unique benefits packages that not only attract great candidates but also keep them around for the long haul. If you’re looking for retention perks that go beyond the usual health insurance and 401(k), this post is for you! As one of the trusted Asheville staffing companies, we understand what it takes to keep top talent engaged and committed.

Why Unique Benefits Matter

According to a recent study, 60% of employees consider benefits and perks a major factor in job satisfaction and retention. And with today’s workforce expecting more than just the basics, companies that don’t adapt risk losing valuable team members to competitors who are willing to think outside the box.

Unique benefits don’t just help with retention—they also:

  • Increase productivity by reducing burnout and stress
  •  Improve company culture and morale
  • Attract a diverse range of talent who value flexibility and well-being
  • Foster employee loyalty and long-term commitment

So, what are some innovative employee benefits that can make a real impact? Let’s dive in!

Creative Perks That Keep Employees Engaged

1. Flexibility is the Future

The 9-to-5 work model is becoming a thing of the past. Employees crave flexibility, and offering remote work options, compressed workweeks, or even unlimited PTO can be a game-changer.

Example: Some companies have introduced a “Work from Anywhere” policy, allowing employees to work remotely for a few weeks per year—whether from a coffee shop or another country!

2. Mental Health & Wellness Benefits

Workplace stress is real, and employees are prioritizing mental well-being more than ever. Providing mental health support shows that you truly care about your team’s overall wellness.

🧘 Ideas to Consider:

  • Monthly wellness stipends for gym memberships, yoga classes, or meditation apps
  • Paid mental health days separate from standard PTO
  • On-site wellness programs like guided meditation sessions or chair massages

3. Childcare & Family Support

Balancing work and family responsibilities can be tough. Offering family-friendly perks is a surefire way to improve retention.

👶 Perks that Make a Difference:

  • Paid parental leave for both moms and dads
  • Childcare stipends or on-site daycare options
  • Flexible scheduling for parents who need to manage school pickups and drop-offs

4. Student Loan Assistance & Educational Perks

With student loan debt at an all-time high, helping employees manage their finances can be a game-changer. Companies that invest in their employees’ education build stronger, more loyal teams.

🎓 Creative Benefits to Offer:

  • Student loan repayment assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement for continuing education
  • Paid time off for professional development or certification programs

5. “Surprise & Delight” Perks

Sometimes, the best perks are the unexpected ones! Small, thoughtful gestures go a long way in creating a happy workplace.

🎁 Fun Ideas to Try:

  • Monthly “Work from a Café” allowance
  • Free lunch Fridays or a stocked snack bar
  • Company-sponsored vacations or annual retreats
  • Bring-your-pet-to-work days

6. Financial Wellness Programs

Financial stress is a huge burden for many employees. Offering financial planning tools and resources can make a real difference in their lives.

💰 Options to Consider:

  • Employer-matched emergency savings plans
  • Free financial coaching or budgeting workshops
  • Profit-sharing or employee stock ownership programs

Building the Right Benefits Package for Your Team

The key to employee benefits innovation isn’t just throwing in perks for the sake of it—it’s about offering benefits that your employees actually want and value. Here’s how to tailor the perfect package for your team:

Survey Your Employees: Ask them what perks matter most to them.
Stay Competitive: Look at industry trends and see what other companies are offering.
Be Inclusive: Make sure your benefits package supports employees from all walks of life.
Work with Experts: Partner with workforce development professionals (like us at Friday Services!) to create a well-rounded, appealing benefits package.

Employee expectations are changing, and businesses that prioritize innovative perks for retention will stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s flexible work arrangements, mental health support, or surprise bonuses, the right benefits package can make all the difference in attracting and keeping top talent.

Want to build a benefits package that truly works? Our team at Friday Services specializes in helping businesses craft unique benefits packages that keep employees happy, engaged, and loyal. Let’s chat about how we can help you create a workplace where people love to work!

📞 Contact Friday Services today and let’s build something great together!

Law Firms Are Seeing Strong Growth: What That Means for the Legal Recruitment

Law Firms Are Seeing Strong Growth: What That Means for the Legal Recruitment

Law firms and the legal industry saw significant financial growth in 2024. According to Citi’s Global Wealth at Work Law Firm Group:

  • Demand increased by 2.9% in the first half of the year
  • Productivity went up 2.1%
  • Revenue jumped 11.4% compared to 2023

Wells Fargo’s Legal Specialty Group also reported a 12.5% revenue increase, nearly double the 6% seen the previous year.

What’s driving this? Higher billing rates, more transactional work, and strong client demand in corporate and real estate law.

Compensation Is Rising

With more revenue, law firms are paying top dollar for legal talent.

  • Standard billing rates increased 9.1%
  • Profits per equity partner rose 16.9%
  • Some associates received bonuses over $1 million (WSJ)

Firms like Milbank set bonus structures ranging from $15,000 to $115,000, with additional summer bonuses and competitive salaries.

Hiring Outlook for 2025

Law firms expect continued growth in key practice areas, according to Citi’s latest report. Key areas for hiring include:

  • Litigation
  • Regulatory and antitrust law
  • Private equity
  • Healthcare, life sciences, and energy law

With increased demand, firms will need to expand their teams, making now a strong market for legal professionals seeking new roles.

Notable Firm Growth

Some firms have seen record-breaking financial performance in 2024:

  • Paul Weiss reported a 31% revenue growth, reaching $2.63 billion, with average partner compensation rising to $7.5 million (Above the Law).
  • Akerman recorded its 14th consecutive year of growth, with profits per equity partner rising 8.5% (Above the Law).

Challenges Ahead

Despite strong financials, some firm leaders are cautious. The rapid rise in lawyer salaries and bonuses may not be sustainable long-term. Competitive hiring is driving up costs, and firms will need to balance profitability with long-term stability (Reuters).

What This Means for Legal Professionals

If you’re in the legal industry—whether as a lawyer, paralegal, or legal operations professional—this is a good time to explore career opportunities. Firms are actively recruiting, and compensation remains competitive!

For law firms, staying ahead means strategic hiring and talent retention. Partnering with trusted Asheville staffing agencies can help firms invest in recruitment now, setting themselves up for long-term success.

Contact Friday Services today to learn more!