Recent Insights from the NCEO HR Peer Network Survey
Employee-owned companies offer a unique workplace experience in which benefits extend beyond just salary and traditional perks. Because employee-owners have a stake in the company’s success, businesses structured this way often prioritize employee well-being, financial security, and professional growth.
To understand which benefits stand out, the NCEO informally surveyed its HR Peer Network group to identify the most valued and unique benefits among employee-owned companies. The responses point to a mix of traditional, innovative, and people-centric perks that make employee ownership a desirable model.
Most Popular Benefits Among Employee-Owned Companies
1. Profit Sharing and Employee Ownership Benefits
One of the defining advantages of working at an employee-owned company is direct financial participation in the company's success. The companies in our networking group identified the following widely appreciated benefits:
- the ESOP itself.
- quarterly profit sharing.
- 401(k) match and HSA (Health Savings Account) contributions.
This is a necessary reminder of how important the real, tangible, material benefits of employee ownership are, and their impact on employee-owners. These benefits ensure that employees directly benefit from their company’s growth.
2. Education and Training Benefits
Employee-owned companies recognize that investing in education and professional development leads to a more engaged workforce, stronger leadership, and better overall business performance. Some of the top education-related benefits identified in the survey include:
- tuition reimbursement and career development programs.
- ESOP education and training.
- mentorship and coaching programs.
Companies that actively educate employees on ESOPs and financial literacy see improved long-term engagement, as employees understand how their ownership stake benefits them directly.
3. Work-Life Balance Perks
Employee-owned companies often recognize that a healthy balance between work and personal life boosts productivity and employee satisfaction. Some of the most favored work-life balance benefits reported by the group include:
- four-day work week or summer Fridays.
- flexible work schedules and early-out Fridays.
- generous time off and leave policies.
These benefits highlight how employee-owned businesses prioritize flexibility and work-life harmony over rigid, outdated structures.
4. Compensation and Unique Perks
Beyond salaries and health insurance benefits, respondents offer additional compensation-related perks that many employees love. According to the companies we spoke with, some of the standout perks include:
- fuel cards and vehicle allowances.
- employee recognition programs.
- annual allowances for company merchandise.
Other notable benefits include discounts at food chains, pet-friendly workplaces, ride-sharing services, and company-sponsored events, which make everyday expenses more affordable and life at work more enjoyable.
5. Employee Wellness and Support Programs
A commitment to employee well-being is another hallmark of employee-owned companies. The companies we spoke with highlighted several standout wellness initiatives, including:
- onsite medical services.
- an employee assistance fund.
- mental health days and coaching programs.
Programs like the Dream Manager Initiative and life coaching and retirement planning workshops were cited as invaluable resources that help employees set and achieve personal and professional goals.
6. Parental and Family Benefits
Family-friendly policies are increasingly important in attracting and retaining talent. Among the most valued benefits in this category are:
- parental and caregiver leave.
- child care assistance.
- flexible work-from-home policies.
By prioritizing family support, employee-owned companies ensure a workplace that acknowledges life beyond the office.
Why These Benefits Matter
The results of this questionnaire make one thing clear: employee-owned companies go beyond traditional benefits to create a culture of shared success and personal growth. By offering financial rewards, flexible schedules, professional development opportunities, and meaningful wellness initiatives, these companies not only attract top talent but also foster long-term employee satisfaction and engagement. If your company is exploring ways to enhance its benefits package, these insights can provide a roadmap for success.
If you want to take our HR Benefits Survey, click here. If you’d like to join the conversation, we encourage you to check out our Peer Networking Groups.