As an IT recruitment agency finding talent in Poland for international companies, we’ve seen firsthand how companies try to attract top talent with various perks. While benefits like psychotherapy, holiday apartments, integration trips, fruit baskets and free pizza or beer on Fridays can be nice touches, they don’t significantly impact if you don’t have the basics right. Our experience and extensive research have identified the most important benefits that truly make a difference: flexible employment contracts, flexible work location, competitive salaries, a focus on innovative products, and a strong team environment.
Understanding Employee Preferences
According to a report from Pracuj.pl titled “New Trends in Recruitment – New Expectations” from March 2024, a satisfactory salary (57%) remains the top desired benefit. However, stability and security of employment (41%) are also crucial due to recent economic changes. Other significant factors include a friendly and motivated team (29%), work-life balance (28%), and opportunities for professional development.
The Changing Priorities in Employee Benefits
Over the past few years, the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped what employees expect from their jobs. Balancing personal and professional life and having flexible work options have become top priorities. These changes are still relevant in 2024, influencing what employees look for in a company.
The Basics That Matter Most
Flexibility in Employment Contract
One crucial aspect to consider when hiring in Poland is the flexibility in employment contracts. Polish labour and civil law provide various options for employment, allowing employers and employees to choose the most suitable contract type based on their specific needs. Whether it’s a permanent contract, B2B sole trader contracting, fixed-term contract, or temporary agreement, having the flexibility to tailor the contract to your requirements ensures that you can hire employees under the right terms.
Why Flexibility in Employment Contracts is Important:
- Tailored Agreements: The ability to customise B2B contracts to suit specific project needs or business conditions.
- Adaptability: Helps in adapting to changing business environments and demands.
- Tax optimisation: Software developers often prefer B2B contracts as they benefit from a lower income tax rate.
Flexibility in Location (Working from Home, Hybrid, Office)
In today’s work environment, offering flexibility in terms of location is highly valued by employees. Polish companies recognise this trend and provide the opportunity for companies to offer remote work, hybrid work models, or office-based setups. By providing employees the flexibility to choose their work location, you can attract top talent and create a more balanced work-life integration, increasing job satisfaction and productivity.
Why Flexibility in Location is Important:
- Increased Productivity: Studies show remote workers are often more productive due to fewer distractions and a better work-life balance.
- Wider Talent Pool: Remote work opens up your recruitment pool to talent across Poland, not just those within commuting distance.
- Improved Morale: Giving employees the autonomy to choose their work environment can boost job satisfaction and loyalty.
Market Salary
If you want to hire the top 1% of developers, you will need to pay the top 1% salary. To attract and retain top talent in Poland, offering competitive market salaries is crucial. It’s essential to conduct thorough market research and benchmarking to determine the appropriate salary range for the positions you are hiring for. Polish employees highly value fair compensation, and offering a salary that aligns with the market standards will ensure that you attract skilled professionals who can contribute to the success of your organisation.
Why Market Salary is Important:
- Attracting Top Talent: A competitive salary signals to potential employees that you value their skills and are willing to invest in them.
- Retaining Top Performers: Employees are more likely to stay with a company that compensates them fairly and keeps pace with market trends.
- Motivating Employees: A good salary can boost morale and encourage employees to go the extra mile.
Product: The Heart of IT Innovation
When hiring tech people in Poland, it’s important to emphasise the product or service your company offers. Polish job seekers are attracted to innovative and impactful projects. Clearly communicate the value and uniqueness of your product during the recruitment process to capture the interest of potential employees. Highlighting the positive impact they can make by joining your organisation will increase their motivation and engagement.
Why Product is Important:
- Attracting Innovators: A product-focused environment appeals to developers who want to make a meaningful impact with their work.
- Fostering Growth: Being involved in innovative projects helps employees grow professionally and stay motivated.
- Building Loyalty: A sense of ownership and contribution to meaningful projects can lead to long-term employee engagement and loyalty.
Team/Colleagues: The Value of a Supportive Work Environment
The working environment and the colleagues employees will be working with play a significant role in their decision to join a company. Emphasise the collaborative and supportive culture within your organisation during the recruitment process. Highlight the opportunities for professional development and the chance to work alongside talented individuals. By showcasing a positive team dynamic, you can attract candidates who value teamwork and seek growth within a supportive work environment.
Why Team/Colleagues are Important:
- Attracting Team Players: A positive team environment attracts individuals who value collaboration and mutual support.
- Fostering Growth: Working with talented colleagues provides continuous learning opportunities and professional development.
- Building Loyalty: Strong relationships and a supportive work culture contribute to employee satisfaction and retention.
The Other Benefits That Employees Value
Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
Flexibility remains a key factor in attracting and retaining talent. Data from Wellbeing Polska shows that the ability to work remotely and maintain a healthy work-life balance are the most important factors for IT specialists in 2024. Offering these options can significantly enhance your appeal as an employer.
Health and Wellness Programmes
Health and wellness programmes are also gaining popularity. Providing access to physical and mental health resources can make a big difference in employee satisfaction and productivity. Programmes that support the well-being of employees show that you care about their overall health, not just their work output.
Professional Development
Support for personal and professional development is another critical benefit. Offering courses, workshops, and opportunities to attend industry conferences helps employees grow in their careers. This not only improves their skills but also keeps them engaged and motivated.
Family-Related Benefits
Family-related benefits, such as additional days off for childcare and subsidised holidays, are becoming increasingly important. These benefits show that you care about your employees’ families and their work-life balance, which can enhance loyalty and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To attract and retain the best IT talent in Poland, it’s essential to offer benefits that meet the needs of employees. Flexibility in employment contracts, flexibility in work location, competitive salaries, meaningful work with innovative products, and a supportive team environment are particularly important in 2024. By understanding and addressing these priorities, companies can create a positive, supportive environment that attracts top talent and keeps them engaged and loyal. Conducting regular surveys and engaging in open conversations with employees can help ensure that your benefits package remains relevant and effective.
By focusing on these key areas, companies can build a strong foundation that goes beyond superficial perks, creating an environment where top IT talent can thrive and contribute to long-term success.
