Pretend you’re at a job interview. You have a few lined up because you’re very good at what you do. The hiring manager silently writes a figure on a slip of paper and slides it to you from across the table, as if you're both in an old noir movie.

The paper simply reads: $70k 

You keep a stoic face, but inwardly you’re pleased. This is a higher offer than you had expected. You’re probably going to accept it. But there’s one more interview to go, and during it, the hiring manager hands you a detailed statement covering: 

Company A offers 10k more than Company B. And maybe they offer benefits too, but they neglected to highlight them. They don’t seem to think employee benefits are important. Whereas Company B clearly shows how much they value you, if they’re willing to invest so much in you. What used to appeal to employees years ago no longer works in an era of high inflation and competition, with the power dynamic shifted to employees. But by highlighting the total value offered, Company A can avoid losing a top candidate to their competition. You can use the same strategy to get ahead of yours.

While inflation remains high, and the War for Talent looms on, employers must offer incentives that go beyond base pay. The National Bureau of Economic Research found that more than 40% of employees would take a job with a lower salary for better benefits. Flexible work schedules alone are worth a 9% pay increase. By investing in high-value benefits, employers can attract candidates while still keeping costs low. Show off what your company offers any chance you get: on your website, social media, job postings, interviews, employment offers, and annual Total Rewards statements. When job postings include benefits, employers see a 22% higher apply rate than postings that don't mention benefits. For non-quantifiable rewards like remote work, wellness resources, and yes, even the foosball table, consider sharing testimonials that express employees' appreciation. This can make rewards normally seen as "soft" come alive within your company culture and values. You also present an organization that cares about its employees, improving brand reputation and legitimacy.