Why Your Small Business Has More to Offer Than You Think
Think your business has nothing to shout about when it comes to job ad benefits? Think again. Even small businesses can stand out in a crowded market. Here’s how you can uncover and showcase the little perks that connect most with candidates, beyond just meeting the legal minimums.
1. Make the Invisible Visible
If you're already offering flexible hours, a supportive culture, or personal development but not mentioning it, candidates won’t know. In fact, if they can’t spot a benefit, it may as well not exist. Your job ad is your first chance to shine, highlight what you’re already doing well, however small (PayFit).
2. Stand Out by Being Relatable
Large corporations may offer glamorous perks, but to many UK jobseekers, small "human" benefits such as birthday time off, sea views, casual dress codes, or even free Friday drinks can be just as appealing. These touches often feel more genuine compared to medical insurance (PayFit).
3. Keep it Affordable, Keep it Relevant
Even on a small budget, you can offer meaningful perks, such as a weekly yoga or running club, fruit boxes, or subsidised gym memberships, many of which can be low-cost but deliver real value. Additional leave, such as extra holiday days or giving staff their birthday off, is free and goes a long way in showing you care (PayFit).
4. Look Beyond Pay
Of course, fair pay matters; no one wants the reputation of being a low payer. But the real pull often comes from the things money can’t buy. Whether it’s the chance to grow, being part of a close-knit team, or knowing the work you do actually makes a difference, those are the things that attract people who care about purpose, not just perks
5. Align Benefits with Your Values
Take a moment to consider your values and the culture you're small business is building. Do you champion teamwork? Collaboration tools, team socials, or regular informal check-ins would reinforce that message. Are you about wellbeing? Share how you support staff well-being in small but meaningful ways, such as through rewards and recognition (Gohire). In today’s competitive job market, companies with strong well-being programs are more attractive to top talent. When potential employees see a commitment to employee well-being, they’re more likely to be drawn to the company and stay for the long haul.
6. Do Your Homework
Look at what competitors or similar-sized businesses are advertising. Benchmark your salaries; it doesn’t mean publicising your rate, but know where you stand. If you can’t match industry norms, lean into your unique, human benefits instead.
7. Communicate Clearly & Consistently
Don’t keep your benefits hidden away. Show them off everywhere, in your job ads, on your careers page, and especially on social media. The more people see them, the more they’ll connect those perks with your culture and what makes your business a great place to work.
In Summary
"You don’t need a big corporate benefits package to attract great people. Spot the small perks you already offer, show them off in job ads that reflect who you are and what your business stands for, and you’ll genuinely stand out. It’s about real, relatable value, not flashy extras
If you’d like help building a benefits section that feels authentic to you, I’d be happy to draft a template or walk you through optimising your careers page. Just say the word!