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It’s Time to Create a Workplace Wellness Program
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It’s Time to Create a Workplace Wellness Program
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:

  1. Set a baseline: Look at the data to understand and identify current challenges and future benefits.
  2. Speak to your employees: Survey your employees, asking about their goals and ideas for a successful wellness strategy.
  3. 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.
  4. Clear communication: Share with the company the program entirely, the goals as well as the benefits.
  5. Work towards buy-in: Encourage participation across your entire organization. Be sure that employees of all levels feel equal in their contribution.
  6. 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.