Mercer’s What’s Working™ survey reveals a dilemma for US employers: Employees say benefits now play a more significant role in their decision to join an organization and stay with it. However, satisfaction with overall benefits packages – health care benefits, in particular – is down.

“In uncertain economic times, US workers are placing greater emphasis on elements of the employee value proposition that represent a safety net for them – base pay, retirement benefits and health care benefits,” says Sharon Cunninghis, Senior Partner and H&B Global Strategic Segment Leader. “Employers must ensure that their benefit programs support the organization’s overall workforce goals, while delivering benefits in an efficient and financially sound manner.”

But there’s a more fundamental issue to address, she notes: “Employers must decide whether benefits should be a differentiator in attracting retaining and engaging workers. In most cases, employers do not want employees to be attracted to them solely on the basis of the benefits they provide.”

See what kinds of scores US employees give their benefit programs today.

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