Dive Brief:
- As the fight for talent continues, 66% of employers say they expect to offer fertility benefits by 2019, according to Willis Towers Watson's 2017 Maternity, Family and Fertility Benefits Survey — a predicted increase from 55% of employers offering such benefits in 2017.
- Of employers who currently provide fertility benefits, 71% report that they do so to support inclusion and diversity goals; 59% are hoping to recruit and retain top talent; and 49% are aiming to create a “woman-friendly workplace.” The survey also reports fertility coverage for same-sex couples will hit 81% among employers offering fertility benefits by 2019.
- For 2018, 82% of business that currently offer the coverage say they will make no changes; 17% expect to enhance offerings, and 1% plan to decrease benefits. Almost 500 U.S. employers responded to the survey, each with at least 100 employees.
Dive Insight:
Competition is relentless, and employers are constantly looking for tools that can help them recruit and retain top talent. As companies also look to increase diversity in the workplace, fertility benefits may be a key way to recruit and retain women and LGBT employees, from entry-level positions to the C-suite.
More employers are finding value in improving their benefits for parents. Employees search for companies that support work-life balance, with fertility benefits notably present at the best workplaces for families. Companies that may not be able to support fertility benefits also may find value in paid parental leave plans and flexible work programs.
Generally, these offerings can go a long way even for employee populations with few parents. For those planning their families, knowing the benefit is there when or if needed could be a major factor in retention and loyalty.
