The benefit of a healthy workplace is much more than employee wellness. Implementing a wellness strategy can help attract, retain and engage employees: increasing satisfaction and productivity. Once the benefits are realized, it only makes sense to initiate a wellness plan.
Advantages of implementing a wellness strategy:
- Reduced stress
Improved workplace morale
- Reduced health care costs
- Fewer short and long-term disability claims
- Less absenteeism
- Improved employee engagement and productivity
- Attract and retain quality employees
Plan examples:
- Flexible schedules and remote working options
- Offer fitness facilities or discounted gym memberships
- Fitness challenges
- Walking programs
- Flu shots
- In office therapies, such as chair massage
- Commitment to offering healthy and seasonal snacks
Open communication about metal health challenges
- Offer your employees a comprehensive group benefits package and encourage them to use the proactive options, such as massage therapy and chiropractic care.
Speak to your employees before initiating a plan to ensure it aligns with their needs, workplace and lifestyle goals – short and long-term. Encourage employees to contribute their thoughts and ideas to increase buy-in and sustainability.
When employees understand “why” your business wants to implement a wellness policy (ie: you care about their physical and mental health!) they will be more likely to commit to the plan, and to your company.
6 simple steps to creating a workplace wellness plan:
- Set a baseline: Look at the data to understand and identify current challenges and future benefits.
- Speak to your employees: Survey your employees, asking about their goals and ideas for a successful wellness strategy.
- Identify resources: There is a lot of information available online. Determine who is going to head up the program and determine what rewards and incentives your business will offer.
- Clear communication: Share with the company the program entirely, the goals as well as the benefits.
- Work towards buy-in: Encourage participation across your entire organization. Be sure that employees of all levels feel equal in their contribution.
- Track, measure and reward: Share milestones, personal and organizational achievements and commit to regular progress updates.
Investing in a well-rounded, engaging workplace wellness program will not only benefit your employees, but your entire business!
If you’d like to speak with a health benefits professional about a group health plan, please reach out to us: 1-800-679-2640 Ext 416 or
visit this page to learn more.