Beyond the paycheck: How to choose the right employer in 2026
Salary matters, but in 2026 it’s no longer the only factor shaping career decisions. Belgian professionals are increasingly prioritizing flexibility, wellbeing and growth opportunities. According to our latest Salary Guide, employers who fail to adapt risk losing top talent.
Why benefits matter (as much as salary) in 2026
In 2026, the benefits attached to your job (flexibility, health & wellbeing, extra leave, learning & growth) often determine whether a role fits your life. Belgian data point to a decisive shift: people are prioritizing hybrid work and wellbeing because they affect daily stress, family time and long‑term resilience far more than a small difference in monthly pay. Our research shows that while traditional perks like meal vouchers (83%) and company cars (63%) remain popular, employees now expect more.
How to compare offers beyond salary: the ultimate checklist
Use this practical checklist to make confident decisions:
1. Flexibility & hybridpolicy
Questions to ask:
- Which days are remote? Are there core hours or meeting‑light windows?
- Are meal vouchers and other benefits equal for telework vs. on‑site?
Why it matters: Strong UK & European evidence that flexibility improves quality of life. (1)
2. Health & wellbeingsupport
Questions to ask:
- Is there an EAP (counselling, legal/financial advice)? How fast can I access therapy?
- Is manager training in mental health part of the policy?
Why it matters: Elevated absence linked to stress/mental ill‑health means support should be structured (not ad‑hoc).
3. Net‑efficient benefits & purchasing power
Questions to ask:
- What’s the meal voucher value and employer contribution?
- Is there a mobility budget, bike leasing, or home‑office stipend?
Why it matters: In Belgium’s cent‑indexation context, net‑efficient benefits can materially boost everyday purchasing power.
4. Learning & progression
Questions to ask:
- Is there a learning budget (trainings, certifications)?
- Are career paths and salary progression transparent (criteria, timelines)?
Why it matters: Manager capability & skills‑based growth are top priorities; look for real commitment, not buzzwords.
5. Paytransparency & fairness
Questions to ask:
- What’s the salary range for this role? Where am I in the range?
- How is pay progression determined (objective, gender‑neutral criteria)?
Why it matters: EU rules will raise the bar on pay clarity; you should expect coherent answers.
Your next step: benchmark with real data
Before you accept an offer, compare salaries and benefits. Download the Hays Belgium Salary Guide 2026 to compare typical packages by sector and level and see which benefits have real market weight. It’s your best pre‑offer due diligence!
