The future of work has never been this open to interpretation and innovation before. With the shift to hybrid and remote work models, the nature of 'the workplace' has been redefined. It's clear that hybrid and remote work is here to stay. In reimagining the future of work, it's our responsibility as employers to create an environment that not only attracts but also supports and retains our talent.
The shift to a hybrid workforce presents a unique opportunity to redesign employee benefits for the better. By offering benefits like flexible scheduling, mental health supports, and enhanced health and wellness programs, you can ensure your company stands out as an employer of choice in this new era of work.
The untapped potential of proactivity with your employee benefits
Despite the clear advantages, a proactive approach is still far from being fully embraced by many companies like yours. While 74% of organizations express an interest in prioritizing employee wellness, a survey by SHRM (The Society for Human Resources Management) showed that less than half have established comprehensive wellness programs that incorporate aspects like mental health, financial wellness, and preventive care.
To bring about a shift towards proactive decision-making, here’s how you can get ahead:
Make flexible scheduling table stakes
In a hybrid workspace, employees are no longer confined to traditional 9-to-5 schedules. Offering flexible schedules as a part of your employee benefits program acknowledges the diverse work habits, personal responsibilities, and time zones of your team. This approach respects their time and autonomy, leading to improved productivity, engagement, overall job satisfaction, and will lead to positive impacts on your turnover rates.
Establish a culture in which mental wellness is as important as physical wellness
The shift to remote and hybrid work can lead to increased feelings of isolation, stress, and burnout for many employees. Now more than ever, mental health supports should be a cornerstone of your company's benefits package. This could include offering online therapy sessions, mindfulness training, stress management resources, or even creating safe spaces for employees to discuss their mental health concerns.
Offer comprehensive wellness benefits
Rather than waiting for health issues to arise, focus on preventive care through wellness programs that prioritize physical and mental health. Companies that proactively offer wellness programs tailored to a hybrid model will stand out. This could include virtual fitness classes, ergonomic workspace allowances, lifestyle accounts or initiatives to support healthy eating. These programs not only show that you care about your employees' wellbeing, but they also contribute to reducing health-related costs in the long run.
Increase adoption of available benefits
By educating employees about available benefits and how to leverage them, you will ensure the benefits you already offer are fully utilized. These education programs can also help employees make better health and consumer decisions, potentially reducing the cost of claims.
Set up a feedback loop via regular employee surveys
Systematic surveys can provide valuable insights into the evolving needs of your employees. Use insights from your feedback to guide proactive modifications to your benefits package, ensuring it remains relevant and supportive to your talent base’s specific needs.
Looking to start your journey towards a successful hybrid work model by reviewing and enhancing your company's benefits package? We can help. Reach out to a member of our team to get a conversation started. A happy, healthy team is a productive and engaged one.
