What's in this template
Five common benefits in a ranked format. Replace with your actual candidates, ideally including a couple you're considering cutting.
Why benefits decisions go wrong
Everything polls well in isolation
Ask whether people want a wellness programme and they'll say yes. Ask them to rank it against parental leave and health cover, and you learn where the money should go.
Demographics shift the answer completely
A team with young children ranks parental leave very differently from one without. If you can segment, do — a single average may represent nobody.
Underused benefits are budget you could redirect
The item that consistently ranks last is worth examining. Either communicate it better or move the money to whatever ranks first.
Ask before renewal, not after
This is only useful if you run it while the package is still negotiable. Two months before renewal is about right.
Run it in three steps
List real candidates
Include what you currently offer plus two or three you're considering. Costed options only — ranking fantasy benefits helps nobody.
Run it anonymously
People are reluctant to rank parental leave highly if they think it signals something about their plans.
Act before renewal
Run it at least two months before the package is locked, or the exercise is purely decorative.