"In the current job market, job seekers are more interested in benefits that will enhance their employability or work-life balance, rather than the flashy perks that were preferred in the late '90s," said Lee Hecht Harrison Executive Vice President Bernadette Kenny.

Kenny noted that given a wish list of programmes and discretionary benefits they might get from their next employer, the greatest number of today's respondents indicated they would like ongoing training opportunities, followed by flex time (73%).

Just 45% say they want a health club membership, which was the most popular response in 1999, sought by 58% of those respondents. Moreover, only 28% want use of a company car, vs. 53% who did so four years ago.

Surprisingly, while job hunters' preferences have changed, their expectations of what they will actually receive largely haven't, observed Kenny.

"Even with the booming economy of the late '90s, few job seekers thought they were likely to get the high-end perks they desired. In fact, while fewer respondents today believe they'll get a car, more think they'll get ongoing training and flex time. This reflects how common such initiatives have become as more employers appreciate their bottom-line contribution."

It's notable, says Kenny, that respondents want and expect ongoing training opportunities, not just one-shot seminars or e-learning programs.

"Employees today recognise that training should be continual, and may take place not only in the classroom or online but also on the job. The common goal is skill development that enhances life long employability"