Indeed Scraps Mental Health Days as More Companies Pare Pandemic Perks
As companies begin to re-evaluate their offerings in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, online job-search company Indeed has announced that it will be canceling its monthly mental health days. Introduced in June 2020, "YOU Days" provided all employees with a day off each month, giving them time to recharge and focus on their well-being.
A Growing Trend
Indeed’s decision is part of a growing trend among companies to pare back benefits introduced during the pandemic. According to Tony Guadagni, research director at consulting firm Gartner Inc.’s human resources practice, "companies introduced an unprecedented number of perks over the last three years." With many organizations being forced to make difficult decisions about which benefits and perks to keep and which to phase out, it’s not surprising that Indeed has chosen to cancel its mental health days.
The Reason Behind the Decision
In an emailed statement, a company spokesperson explained that as employees are once again booking time off at a similar rate to before the pandemic, "the global need for YOU Days has passed." This decision reflects the changing needs of employees and companies alike. With travel restrictions lifted and vaccination rates increasing, many employees are feeling more comfortable taking time off without worrying about their jobs.
Other Companies Following Suit
Indeed is not alone in re-evaluating its offerings. Elon Musk’s social media platform, X (formerly Twitter), has also canceled monthly company-wide "days of rest." Many companies that introduced additional hazard pay and paid sick leave for frontline workers during the pandemic have since ended those benefits. For example, Starbucks Corp. ended its expanded COVID-19 sick pay for baristas last year.
Benefits That Are Here to Stay
Despite canceling mental health days, Indeed will continue to provide unlimited paid time off for employees and offers them the option of working fully remote if they choose. The company has also recently extended its parental leave benefit to 26 weeks from 16 weeks.
The Impact on Employees
While it’s understandable that companies need to re-evaluate their offerings in light of changing circumstances, canceling mental health days may have a negative impact on employees’ well-being. With the increased pressure and stress caused by the pandemic, many employees relied on these benefits to take a break and recharge.
The Future of Employee Benefits
As companies navigate the post-pandemic landscape, it’s essential to prioritize employee well-being. While some benefits may need to be phased out or re-evaluated, others are here to stay. With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, employees expect more from their employers than ever before.
Conclusion
Indeed’s decision to cancel its mental health days is just one example of a growing trend among companies to pare back pandemic perks. As we move forward, it’s essential for companies to prioritize employee well-being and provide benefits that meet the changing needs of their workforce. Whether it’s unlimited paid time off or flexible work arrangements, employees expect more from their employers than ever before.
Recommended Reading
- Some Companies Lifting Cap on Mental Health Benefits: With the increasing focus on mental health, some companies are lifting the cap on mental health benefits to provide employees with greater support.
- The 5 Work Benefits Employees Want Most: Employees are prioritizing certain work benefits over others. Here’s a look at what employees want most from their employers.
- Goldman Sachs Adds New Employee Benefits to Fight Burnout: Goldman Sachs has introduced new employee benefits to combat burnout and improve employee well-being.
Join the Conversation
Share your thoughts on Indeed’s decision to cancel its mental health days and the impact of pandemic perks on employee well-being. Join the conversation by commenting below or sharing this article on social media.
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