The workforce system in Nigeria is not a one-size-fits-all thing. This means that, as an employee, you don’t get to have the same experience everywhere you go and because of this, you tend to switch from one job to a better one until you feel deep down that you are in a good place.
This is where rights and benefits come in; mostly, people move around because they think there is something better out there for them in terms of benefits. And, some others, need more confidence to enjoy their rights, so they look for an organization that gives them this opportunity.
First of all, the idea of enjoying your rights or benefits starts from understanding what they really mean. Rights and benefits are two different concepts when it comes to work and every employee must understand this.
Your Rights at a Job
Rights at a job refers to the entitlements and protections guaranteed to employees by law or company policy. These rights usually include the following:
Right to Fair Treatment
At your place of work, you have the right to be treated with respect and dignity, and to be free from harassment, bullying, or unfair treatment in the workplace.
Right to Safe Working Conditions
Be sure that you are currently working in an environment that is free from hazards and risks to health and safety.
Right to Fair Wages
If you have fulfilled your part of the work for a particular month, you have the right to receive fair compensation for the job done. This should be by minimum wage laws and any contractual agreements between you and the company.
Right to Family and Medical Leave
If you need to attend to your health or that of your family member, you have the right to take time off work for family or medical reasons.
Right to Overtime Pay
You have the right to receive overtime pay for hours worked beyond the standard workweek, as mandated by overtime laws.
Right to Rest and Meal Breaks
No company allows you to work for long and at a stretch. So, you have the right to have breaks and meal periods during work hours, as required by labor laws or company policy.
Right to Equal Opportunity
You have the right to equal opportunities for hiring, promotion, training, and other employment-related decisions.
Benefits you can enjoy from working a Job
Benefits, on the other hand, comprise the additional perks and privileges provided to employees beyond their basic salary. These can vary widely depending on the organization and may include the following:
Health insurance
A company can decide to cover medical expenses, including doctor visits, hospitalization, prescription medications, and preventive care.
Retirement plans (pension)
A company may decide that you have access to employer-sponsored retirement savings plans such as 401(k) or pension plans, with opportunities for employer contributions and tax advantages.
Paid time off
There is a special allocation of paid vacation days, holidays, sick leave, and personal days for employees to use for rest, relaxation, or personal reasons. Your employer may decide to give you this.
Bonuses
Some companies, during the festive period, may receive bonuses to ensure that they enjoy themselves to the fullest. Others do not give these benefits to their workers.
Employee Recognition Programs
You can be recognized or rewarded for outstanding performance, achievements, or years of service depending on how well you perform.
Professional Development Opportunities
You can also be provided access to career advancement opportunities, mentorship programs, skills training, and leadership development initiatives to support career growth and advancement within the company.
The main difference between the two concepts discussed is that while rights are legally mandated, benefits are often offered as incentives to attract and retain employees.
