Sidekicker announces NZ-first benefits program

On-demand employment marketplace Sidekicker is leading the way in developing and implementing a benefits program called ‘Unleash’ for its 11,000-plus casual employees, known as Sidekicks. 

Sidekicker CEO Tom Amos (pictured) said Sidekicker’s overarching mission is to give people the power to reach their potential – whether that’s by providing easier and more convenient access to work, or helping businesses better manage their flexible workforce in order to optimise their overall business operations. Rolling out a long term benefits program for this growing flexible workforce is a natural extension of the company’s mission. 

Sidekicker carried out ANZ’s largest ever survey of 11,123 temporary workers to find out their drivers and motivations for engaging in on-demand work. Sidekicker used these insights to design a culture-focused benefits program called ‘Unleash’.

“The results of this survey have given us invaluable insights into the key drivers and motivations of the Sidekick workforce. Armed with this insight the goal of the Unleash program is to provide our Sidekicks with easy access to holistic services and tools across education, finance, health, and wellness – all areas that are of importance to them. We created the program to provide our Sidekick community with greater opportunity to learn, upskill and progress both personally and professionally,” says Amos. 

Sidekicker’s survey found that 77 percent of Sidekicks rated job flexibility higher than job security, full-time hours and career development. When asked why they opt for flexible engagement instead of full time work, 82 percent gave at least one response indicating a desire for a holistic approach to work/life balance.

When asked what would be the most valuable support Sidekicker could offer them:

● 44 percent of respondents said training.

● 12 percent said access to transport. 

● 18 percent said more information around financial literacy. 

Under the umbrella of the Unleash program, Sidekicker has also formed various training programs, partnerships and associations with a number of institutions including prestigious hospitality schools, TAFEs and Universities. This gives Sidekicks the chance to gain qualifications and skills in industries showing strong demand in job opportunities, ultimately keeping Sidekicks relevant to the workforce, and allowing them to develop their careers.