In an age where companies are constantly competing against one another to provide better benefits and a healthier work/life balance, it is important to understand that while stellar perks and rewards are important to employee retention and satisfaction, they aren't the only factors driving employee engagement and satisfaction.

For example, HR departments should aim to empower employees through customized, work/life applications that invest in their personalized career experience. By investing in employee's careers, HR departments will be able to cut operational costs and more effectively retain their talent.

But how do you invest in your employees?

The first place to start is by learning what is important to prospective and current employees. Now more than ever, employee entering the workforce have placed increased importance on working for companies whose values and beliefs align with their own.