Kiwis want flexibility in their working hours far more than Friday night drinks, according to the latest Watercooler poll on seek.co.nz. An overwhelming 61% of respondents listed flexible working hours as their favourite non-monetary job perk.

The poll, which asked respondents what their favourite non-monetary employment benefit would be, found that after flexible working hours, 28% of Kiwis would like the chance to take training and development courses, 6% want Friday night drinks, and just 5% chose subsidised lunches.

"Kiwis particularly value having a degree of flexibility in their working hours. In many cases, this allows them to combine a career with other aspects of their life that are important to them," comments Janet Faulding, General Manager of SEEK New Zealand.

Technology has enabled employers to offer more in the way of flexible working. Portable workstations, smartphones and remote access mean that employees are now able to log on and work from home or in different offices.

"Firms that tailor their employee benefit schemes to meet the individual needs of their employees are also likely to see increased levels of engagement and motivation. The perfect package is not just about pay and the more firms recognise this, the more they are likely to succeed in attracting, retaining and motivating good staff" adds Janet Faulding.