How to use the ‘benefitsmaxxing’ career trend to get the most out of your job in 2026

Pizza lunches, dress-down Fridays and corporate retreats: when it comes to work ‘perks’, we all tend to feel differently about what our companies are offering. And in a world where we need more from our places of work, branded swag and a day off on your birthday are no longer considered enough. 

According to online career tool Kickresume, the latest generation of workers is demanding increased control and customised perks, and no longer accepting a one-size-fits-all approach. According to its research, holiday allowance, career development opportunities and flexible working are must-haves, while free snacks and company merchandise are the least attractive offerings. Put simply, members of Gen Z are starting to recognise the importance of benefits and are actively negotiating packages tailored to their needs and wants in a new career trend known as ‘benefitsmaxxing’. 

“The rise of ‘benefitsmaxxing’ shows that Gen Z, in particular, are looking for something more than the traditional one-size-fits-all benefits package,” Peter Duris, CEO and co-founder of Kickresume, tells Stylist. It seems that rather than being locked into the same benefits as everyone else, workers want to be able to opt in and out, choosing the perks that matter to them the most. 

“This kind of flexible benefits plan is something that’s really attractive to candidates, as everyone will have different priorities,” he says. “For instance, some might want private health insurance, while others prefer a budget for their professional development and training.”

As Duris explains, some companies already offer this type of package as standard, but even those with fixed benefits might accommodate the preferences of current employees or new hires. “For instance, if flexible working is something that’s important to you, from 2024, all employees have the right to request this and employers must consider your request,” he says. “So if you’re starting a new job and want more annual leave, for example, to match your previous role, there’s no harm in politely asking for this during negotiations.”

And if you’ve been in your current role for a while, it’s not too late to research your company’s benefits package. “You might find there’s something you’re not using that could really help,” he suggests. “Our priorities can shift over time, so while enhanced pension contributions and salary sacrifice schemes might not have mattered much to you before, they could be worth investigating now, especially if you’ve recently received a pay rise.”

Ultimately, Duris says, businesses should keep all their employees in the loop about what perks are on offer and gather feedback on whether the team is happy with the current benefits plan. For lots of people, it’s almost as big a deal as the salary, especially flexible or hybrid working.”

Start early

Before starting a new job, or once you are already an employee, research the details of the company’s benefit plan to understand exactly what’s included.

Think long-term

Enrol for boosted pension or health plans, as well as training and development. For long-term security, take advantage of salary sacrifice schemes that offer tax benefits.

Don’t be afraid to ask

Before accepting a new job offer, remember you can negotiate your benefits, not just your salary. Compare the offering with other companies to ensure you’re getting a good deal, and don’t be afraid to negotiate for additional benefits that are important to you.

Images: Adobe