The tech companies of Silicon Valley have always struggled to attract and retain talented software developers, but today the field of competition has shifted away from sleep pods and free cafeterias to health benefits. Yes, health benefits. Not just any health benefits, but queen bee luxury perks, such as Apple and Facebook covering the cost of egg freezing for its female employees, in addition to other previously unheard of deal sweeteners.
Unwilling to be left behind, Google has jumped into the game as became apparent when the chief executive of Foundation Medicine noted in an earnings call he’d struck a deal with the tech giant, according to a story in Reuters. As part of its benefits portfolio, Google will cover the costs of Foundation Medicine’s DNA tests for employees and their family members suffering from cancer.
I – Word Understanding
perks – special privilege or benefits
deal sweeteners – something that makes a business transaction more appealing
II – Have Your Say
1.Prevention offers the most cost-effective long-term strategy for the control of cancer.
How do we prevent cancer?
2. Generous and innovative perks guarantee increased worker morale and retention. Here are some companies with incredible employee perks:
Google: free lunch and dinner
oil change and car wash
massage and yoga
child care and tuition assistance
2. Yahoo: onsite gym, basketball and volleyball courts
live concerts and barbeques
3. SC Johnson and Son: on-site employee concierge
4. AOL: onsite daycare facility
5. Facebook: free bikes in the campus (and repair shop)
free computer accessory vending machine
stand-up desks
3 meals a day, 5 days a week
onsite barbershop
