Comments on: benefits vs. culture: which will keep them down on the farm?

By: forex robot

forex robot — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 02:18:09 +0000

nice post. thanks.

By: HRM Today - Blog Archive » The October 28 Carnival of HR – Halloween Spirits Version

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:59:38 +0000

[...] Melmed at Free-Range Communication debates Benefits vs Culture: Which will keep them down on the farm? while sipping her favorite [...]

By: Human Resources Articles | blogging carnival of HR — hr bartender

Human Resources Articles | blogging carnival of HR — hr bartender — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:03:20 +0000

[...] Melmed at Free-Range Communication debates Benefits vs Culture: Which will keep them down on the farm? while sipping her favorite [...]

By: fran

fran — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:07:36 +0000

linda, you won’t find me arguing with you!

By: Linda Russell

Linda Russell — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 19:41:08 +0000

Interesting post, as those survey findings are nearly opposite of a prior survey that has long been used in management/supervisor seminars to talk about what motivates employees. (My apologies that I can't recall the source of that survey at the moment.) The prior survey I've seen shows the disconnect going the other way – employers thinking it was all about money but employees saying it was about interesting work, supportive environment, and opportunity to contribute. I would guess it's a factor of the tough financial climate that sparked the change to compensation and benefits.

Regardless of what the surveys say, your points are correct that lousy culture with great pay will still result in losing employees eventually. On the flip side, a supportive culture with noncompetitive pay may ultimately lose employees as well. Yet, I'd argue that truly employee-focused cultures include competitive pay and benefits – and communicates well, too.

By: Paul Hebert

Paul Hebert — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:10:18 +0000

The problem with these types of surveys is they are “situational” and will change. However, your point is well made – over time – and in general – employees actually value the relationship, recognition and feeling like they are doing something valuable. While for short spurts during stressful times they may “say” they want the other – it won't match their real deep, down feelings.

Don't manage to a specific data point is the bottom line lesson in my mind.