“Viewpoint” is a new series of opinion posts from WorkSync that spotlight our take on the big ideas affecting today’s workforce and businesses.

As we emerge from the shadow of COVID-19, we’re seeing a clear trend in today’s employment landscape: It’s very much a job seekers’ market. Businesses across industries are struggling to fill open positions and get their operations back to running at full potential. But job candidates aren’t rushing right back to work. They’re using their newfound leverage to be more selective about their options.

That’s why, in this current moment, it’s more important than ever to become an employer of choice.

What does it mean to be an employer of choice? It means, quite simply, that your business is a place where people want to work. This might bring to mind fun perks like a ping-pong table and tasty snacks in the office — but while those are certainly nice-to-haves, we’re talking about a whole lot more than that.

An employer of choice stands out among the competition of other companies. And it does so in a number of key areas. By finding ways to engage and empower its employees. Offering flexibility in work location and scheduling. Providing a safe and healthy workplace. Promoting employees’ overall wellness in and out of the office.

These benefits are particularly crucial in our post-pandemic world. Job candidates are looking for positions that afford them a balance between in-person and remote work, when possible. They seek a company culture that puts trust in them and gives them greater agency over their work lives. And they want to know that their employer cares about their well-being as individuals.

Businesses should be willing to think outside the box when considering how to become employers of choice. For instance, there are recent innovations like earned wage access, which allows hourly employees to be paid instantly for time they’ve already worked, rather than having to wait two weeks for their paycheck. Providing such a service shows that a company is concerned with supporting its team’s financial health.

The days of job seekers feeling lucky to just be offered a position are over. Before they sign that contract, they’re going to make sure that your organization is one they want to be a part of. To attract top talent so your business can thrive, it’s time to make the necessary changes to become an employer of choice. That’s how you’ll find the best people to fill your ranks — and keep them, too.

WorkSync offers leading workforce management solutions for your organization. Learn more and request a demo today at workSync.com.