8 unique job perks that might be better than a raise

Flickr/Rachel Lyra Hospodar

Traditionally, when employers have sought to reward top performers, they’ve relied on money.

Whether in the form of a raise or a bonus, adding to your existing pay is one of the best ways to keep you around and make you feel appreciated.

However, many small businesses are struggling to make budget on the revenue they have coming in each month.

Fortunately, money is only one way to say "thank you" to employees for their hard work.

In fact, a recent survey of 200,000 people showed that salary is fairly low on the list of things employees need to feel appreciated.

One way to increase longevity and attract the best new workers is to offer attention-getting perks. Here are a few ideas that bosses can consider in lieu of a salary increase.

1. Electronics

In recent years, businesses have begun winning over potential candidates by offering the hottest gadgets on the market, including tablets and smartwatches. This type of perk can be especially attractive to employees in tech jobs.

Make sure your boss differentiates between products they’re issuing as work devices and gifts they’ve given you as a perk. If an employer offers you a tablet to lure you into a job or just to keep you happy, you should be able to keep the item permanently, although your boss may require you stay in the position for a minimum length of time.

2. Paid sabbaticals

Popular in academics, paid sabbaticals are rarely seen in the corporate world. However, these extended breaks from work have proven beneficial both to employees and their employers.

This is one way you can pursue a personal passion, such as traveling to an exotic location or studying a new subject, and return rejuvenated and ready to contribute again.

3. Debt repayment

Many students today leave college with a pile of loans they’ll have to spend years repaying. The Federal government recently announced it would help government employees repay their student loans and the trend caught on.

Companies such as PricewaterhouseCoopers and Natixis have announced they, too, are offering student loan repayment as an employee perk. Consider asking this of your employer as well.