According to the SHRM 2009 Benefits Survey

Because of the recent economic events, 46% of employees are taking a greater interest in understanding the benefits they receive through the workplace. With employees now paying more attention to these benefits, there is an opportunity for organizations to help a more engaged workforce fully understand all of their options and the true value of their benefits package.

Employees consistently rate benefits as one of the key factors in employee job satisfaction. It is important for an employee benefits package to be attractive to both current and prospective employees as well as cost-effective, especially in this economic downturn.