4-minute read
Open enrollment for your company may be over. But now what? Did your employees really understand the options they selected? Do they understand how they can save money, protect their health, or prepare for the future? Here’s how employers can support their teams in maximizing the value of their benefits in the year ahead.
1. Offer Accessible, Engaging Education
When it comes to benefits, no two employees have the same needs, so offering a range of educational tools is essential. Consider hosting webinars throughout the year, where employees can learn about the basics, ask questions, and clarify details in a low-pressure setting. For employees who prefer written resources, creating quick-reference guides or short, digestible videos can be invaluable.
2. Provide One-on-One Counseling Sessions
Sometimes, group settings don’t allow employees to explore their personal situations. By providing one-on-one counseling sessions with HR or a benefits advisor, you give employees a chance to have a private, customized conversation. This approach can be especially helpful when addressing complex benefits like HSA accounts, retirement plans, or disability coverage. One-on-one meetings can also help employees feel supported and valued, fostering greater engagement with their benefits.
3. Plan Year-Round Conversations
Regular communication and reminders throughout the year keep employees informed about seasonal wellness benefits, preventive care options, and any updates to the benefits plan. Consider incorporating benefits reminders into your quarterly communications or add benefits updates to your regular team meetings.
4. Leverage Digital Tools and Platforms
Employees are used to getting information instantly and digitally. If your organization uses a benefits portal, take advantage of its capabilities to provide ongoing resources and updates. Some platforms offer benefits calculators and other tools that can help employees visualize their choices and outcomes, helping them make more informed decisions.
5. Gather Feedback and Measure Success
Collecting employee feedback on your benefits education efforts can provide valuable insights for improvement. Send out surveys or hold focus groups to find out what’s working and where employees feel there are gaps. The more responsive you are to employees’ needs and preferences, the more effective your benefits education will be in the long run.
6. Create a Peer Ambassador Program
Employees often feel more comfortable discussing benefits with colleagues who understand their daily experiences. Consider establishing a peer ambassador program where trained employees serve as benefits champions. These ambassadors can answer questions, share personal insights, and guide their peers toward the right resources. This peer-led support can make benefits information more relatable and accessible, encouraging a culture of shared learning and support around benefits.
In Closing
Helping employees understand their benefits options is one of the most impactful ways you can enhance employee satisfaction and wellness. With thoughtful, accessible education strategies, employers can make sure their teams are empowered to make the best choices for themselves and their families.
The Mahoney Group, based in Mesa, Ariz., is one of the largest independent insurance and employee benefits brokerages in the U.S. For more information, visit our website or call 877-440-3304.
This article is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.