# A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Back Your Employment Perks
As an employee, you may have experienced the loss of benefits or perks due to cost-cutting measures by your employer. Although it can be hard to accept, there are several proactive steps you can consider to get them rolled back or replaced with less expensive but still rewarding alternatives.
In this guide, we’ll take you through six productive steps to help you regain your employment perks, stay calm and focused during the process, and achieve the best possible outcome.
## Keep Your Emotions in Check
The first step towards reclaiming your perks is to get a handle on your emotions. Losing your benefits can cause feelings of grief, denial, anger, and frustration, which can impact your judgment and the outcome of your negotiations.
Before you start communicating with your employer, take some time to reflect on your feelings and be aware of any emotional reactions that may arise. Remember that you have the right to express your concerns, but it’s essential to do it in a professional and constructive manner.
## Productive Steps to Rolling Back Employment Perks
Now let’s explore some actionable steps to help you get your employment perks back.
### 1. Communicate with Management
Start by having a conversation with your supervisor, manager, or human resources department to understand the reasons behind the decision to cut your perks. Ask for clarification and inquire about any alternative solutions that could help mitigate the impact on employees.
This meeting is about understanding why the perks have been removed and if there will be alternatives. By having this conversation, you can communicate your needs and preferences in a clear and professional manner, which can help you negotiate effectively.
### 2. Negotiate Alternatives
Explore the possibility of negotiating alternative benefits or perks that may be less costly for the company but still provide some value to the employees.
For example, instead of entirely eliminating a perk like gym memberships, you could suggest a discounted corporate rate or explore other wellness initiatives within the office, like a break-out room for yoga and meditation.
Suggest hybrid working as a compromise and greater use of collaboration tools that improve productivity in a hybrid work setup. If IT security is a worry for your employer, ensure you’ve got the right IT infrastructure for a hybrid workplace.
Be sure to be well prepared and knowledgeable on what perks can be rolled back and which ones can be let go and replaced with alternatives.
### 3. Seek Collective Action
If multiple employees are affected by the removal of perks, consider discussing the situation with your colleagues and potentially forming a collective voice. As Aristotle said: “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.”
As a group, approach management or HR to present a united front and propose alternative solutions or compromises. This collective action can be powerful in showing that your group is united and committed to finding a solution that works for everyone involved.
### 4. Focus on Compensation
While losing perks can be disappointing, it might be an opportunity to negotiate for a salary increase or additional compensation to offset the loss. Emphasize your contributions, skills, and the value you bring to the company, and explore the possibility of a salary adjustment during performance reviews or salary negotiation discussions.
By focusing on compensation, you can show your employer that you are willing to work with them to find a mutually beneficial solution, which can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
### 5. Improve Skills and Marketability
Take advantage of the situation to enhance your skills and marketability. Invest in professional development, attend relevant workshops or courses, or pursue certifications that make you more valuable in the job market.
By doing so, you can position yourself for better opportunities if needed and show your employer that you are proactive and committed to your career growth.
### 6. Consider Alternative Employment Options
If the loss of perks significantly impacts your job satisfaction or overall compensation, you might explore alternative employment options.
Update your resume, network, and seek opportunities that align with your career goals and offer the desired perks or benefits. As a proactive job seeker, you can find new opportunities that better align with your needs and goals.
## Summing Up
Losing your perks can be an emotional experience. It’s crucial to understand the stages of grief you may experience and take the time to process the event.
Each situation is unique, and the best course of action to either roll back the loss of perks or get alternative solutions depends on various factors, including your relationship with your employer, company policies, and the overall economic conditions.
Remember, be proactive, professional, and constructive in your actions, and explore all possible options to achieve the best possible outcome. Whether it’s negotiating alternative perks, seeking compensation, or finding new job opportunities, there are always proactive steps you can take to regain control of your employment perks.
