A significant number of unvaccinated workers (30%) say they would get vaccinated against COVID-19 in exchange for an employer incentive, such as cash or perks, according to new analysis from Joblist. For unvaccinated potential new hires who are currently unemployed, that number is even higher: 39% of them would get vaccinated for an incentive. Joblist, an AI-powered job search platform, surveyed almost 13,000 job-seekers on employer vaccine incentives and mandates.
What it means to HR leaders
Although COVID-19 vaccines are widely available, vaccination rates are much lower than originally hoped for by health officials and present a major roadblock to ending the pandemic. That’s why, experts say, employers are vital in helping to boost vaccination rates by encouraging employees to get inoculated.
Related: What new EEOC vaccine incentive guidance means for HR leaders
Over the last several months, a number of employers have announced plans, incentives, education efforts and more to encourage their workers to get the shots. Some companies are embracing financial incentives: Kroger, for instance, is paying a $100 bonus to any employee who gets vaccinated, while Petco is offering $75 to its employees who roll up their sleeves. Others, like Aon and Dollar General, are giving employees paid time off to get the shot.
Related: Still weighing vaccine incentives? Here’s what 12 employers have done
The Joblist data implies those efforts are a good idea for any employer looking to boost vaccination rates among their employees.
“For employers who are looking to increase the vaccination rate of their team, vaccine incentives could be an effective tool,” says Joblist CEO Kevin Harrington.