Retaining talent through local perks

Opinion

In a competitive job market, retaining and engaging employees is no small feat. While competitive salaries and benefits remain foundational, today’s workforce is increasingly drawn to companies that prioritize meaningful experiences and community connection.

Employees want more than just a paycheque — they want to feel valued, connected and part of something bigger. This shift in employee expectations means businesses must go beyond traditional benefits to foster loyalty and engagement.

One innovative solution is Culturosity (culturosity.io), a program that transforms how employers show appreciation by offering unique, local experiences. This approach not only enhances employee satisfaction but also deepens their connection to Winnipeg’s cultural fabric. By integrating local perks into your employee benefits package, you demonstrate a commitment to their well-being while supporting the local community.

How it works

Culturosity offers an app to subscribers that provides exclusive access to Winnipeg events, dining, attractions, activities and boutiques.

Organizations pay a monthly fee to give their employees access to these curated experiences. Employees can browse the app to discover a rotating selection of perks — from discounts on meals at local restaurants to complimentary gifts with purchase.

Whether it’s a family outing to a museum, tickets to a local performance or a hands-on workshop, these experiences allow employees to enjoy the best of Winnipeg with their colleagues or loved ones. For employers, it’s a seamless way to offer meaningful perks without the administrative hassle of managing employee gatherings. Now the managers can enjoy their time at the event, too.

By embracing this locally-focused model, companies can foster a stronger sense of community, create lasting memories for their teams and distinguish themselves in a competitive labor market.

Why local perks matter

Providing employees with local perks isn’t just about offering a fun outing — it is a strategic investment in your team and community. Businesses that offer these experiences demonstrate a commitment to enriching the lives of their people, recognizing engaged employees are happier, more productive and more likely to stay.

Here are some compelling reasons to offer local perks through Culturosity:

Enriching lives: Offering experiences that employees can enjoy with their colleagues or families enhances their quality of life. Whether it’s a night at the theatre or a museum visit, these moments create lasting memories and provide a mental reset.

Demonstrating commitment, appreciation: Local perks are a tangible way to show your employees you value their contributions. By offering unique experiences, you signal that their well-being and personal growth matter.

Building stronger teams: Shared experiences outside of work strengthen relationships and improve collaboration. Attending a play or participating in a cultural workshop fosters camaraderie and teamwork in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.

Attracting, retaining talent: Offering creative perks sets your business apart. In a competitive hiring landscape, candidates are drawn to employers who prioritize both personal and professional enrichment.

Welcoming newcomers: Local perks provide a wonderful introduction for employees new to Winnipeg, helping them feel connected to the city and its vibrant culture. It’s a warm, inviting way to make new hires feel at home.

Differentiating from competitors: Offering locally rooted perks gives your organization a unique edge. While others may focus solely on traditional benefits, local experiences stand out and offer something truly memorable.

Supporting local businesses: By partnering with Winnipeg’s cultural and entertainment institutions, you not only enrich the employee experience but also invest in the local economy and community sustainability.

Taste of Winnipeg

Culturosity is just getting started. It has already partnered with a diverse range of local institutions and businesses to offer experiences that reflect Winnipeg’s cultural richness. Employees can explore everything from historic sites to culinary delights, creating a curated experience that reflects the heart and soul of the city.

Participating providers include: Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Manitoba Museum, Shakespeare in the Ruins, Manitoba Opera, Théâtre Cercle Molière, Pourium, Blufish, Burton Cummings Theatre, Saint-Boniface Museum, Made Here, WAG-Qaumajuq, Canada Life Centre, Heritage Winnipeg, Royal Aviation Museum and Folklorama.

Feel-good factor

Beyond the tangible benefits of employee retention and engagement, local perks cultivate a sense of pride in the community. Employees who experience and appreciate the local culture are more likely to feel rooted and invested in where they live and work. This emotional connection can translate into greater loyalty to the company and a deeper sense of belonging.

Moreover, supporting local institutions strengthens the fabric of Winnipeg itself. Every ticket purchased and every event attended through Culturosity helps sustain the city’s cultural landscape, ensuring these experiences remain accessible for future generations.

Getting started

Launching a local perks program is easier than you might think. Culturosity offers a streamlined approach for businesses looking to offer curated, meaningful experiences to their employees. By partnering with beloved local venues and institutions, Culturosity makes it simple to integrate these perks into your existing benefits framework.

It is more than just a workplace benefit — it’s a way to celebrate where you live, support your community and show your employees they matter. In today’s fast-paced and competitive job market, that kind of commitment makes all the difference.

Tory McNally, CPHR, BSc., vice-president, HR consulting, is a human resource professional, radio personality, speaker and problem solver. She can be reached at tory@legacybowes.com