What would make you willing to take a pay cut? If your answer is finding a company that shares your values, you are not alone.
More than half of U.S. employees are willing to make less money in order to work for a company that aligns with their values, according to Qualtrics. And the number only rises with younger generations. The World Economic Forum reported that nine in 10 Gen Z workers would leave a role to work somewhere that better aligned with their values.
For Jill Odegard, a senior compensation and benefits partner, Identity Digital is an ideal values match. Built In spoke with Odegard about her employer’s values and why they make all the difference for her.
Identity Digital is an internet infrastructure company that makes sure web addresses work seamlessly.
What values do you ideally want to see in an employer?
I value an employer that genuinely cares about its people. For me, that means prioritizing well-being and work-life balance while recognizing and rewarding contributions. I also look for a company that challenges the status quo, celebrates both individual and team achievements, and provides meaningful opportunities for growth and development. Recognition, integrity and a true commitment to doing the right thing really stand out to me.
“Recognition, integrity and a true commitment to doing the right thing really stand out to me.”
How does your employer show a commitment to these values?
Our benefits reflect our belief that people thrive when they feel supported and valued. We offer a wellness program, generous PTO, volunteer time off and a holiday closure to ensure everyone has time to rest and recharge. We also take time to recognize each other to celebrate each other’s contributions, big and small, fostering a culture of gratitude and appreciation. Beyond benefits, our culture prioritizes integrity, personal growth and continuous learning, with encouragement to explore and apply AI in ways that make work easier and more impactful for people.
Why is it important to you that your employer shares these values?
When the company’s values align with mine, it makes work feel more meaningful. I feel supported, respected and part of something bigger than just my own role. It’s easier to bring my best when there’s trust, recognition and a real sense of belonging. Seeing teams model integrity and collaboration isn’t just motivating; it creates an environment where people want to grow, contribute and make an impact.
