4 Simple Ways to Get the Most out of Your Benefits Program

May 10, 2021

Employee wellness is associated with healthier and happier workplace environments, high retention rates, and enhanced company productivity.

Despite most companies offering a wide range of benefits, plan-members often underutilize their benefits package.

There are many reasons why plan-members may not be taking full advantage of their benefits program: choices can sometimes seem overwhelming; benefits can be difficult to understand; and, sometimes it is simply a matter of being disengaged. It is up to plan sponsors to ensure members are not only educated on the programs but engaged with the program - which may not be as difficult as you think.

Here are some simple yet effective ways to get the most out of your benefits program:

1. Set up a simple survey

Simply asking plan-members questions in a survey format can give you insight into what your plan-members care about and can help you understand why they may not be taking full advantage of specific areas of your benefits program.

Let your plan-members tell you what they need

Sample questions to ask:

  • Are you confident you understand what benefits are offered to you?
  • Would you be open to learn more about your benefits program?
  • Are you aware of the EAP program?
  • Do you believe the benefits program plays an important role in your personal wellness goals?

No need to over complicate or over-do your surveys - simple is key!

2. Send out a newsletter or announcement to remind plan-members of the benefits they have

Regularly communicating with plan-members using newsletters can lead to improved engagement.

Although employees often pay close attention to their benefits during onboarding, as needs change and time goes on, the wide range of benefits offered can go underutilized. Sometimes, plan-members just need a simple reminder of what is offered in their benefits program.

The key is to keep it visual and simple

Using a regular newsletter that simplifies a seemingly over-complicated benefits package can be an accessible means of keeping your plan-members aware of what they can take full advantage of.

3. Hold information sessions

Sometimes underutilization of benefits is simply a matter of plan-members not understanding the full range of benefits they have offered to them.

Keep plan-members educated and informed!

Bring in your advisor or carrier to talk to plan-members about their benefits package. This is a great way for plan-members to have their questions answered and clear up any misunderstandings.

What this can look like:

  • Bi-annual webinars
  • Q&A Sessions
  • Recorded information sessions

*Keep it accessible so that all plan-members have the opportunity to take advantage of information sessions.

4. Have an employee appreciation day

Sometimes, plan-members don’t fully utilize their benefits package because they feel disengaged.

A great way to improve plan-member engagement is to let employees know that they are appreciated by creating a healthy work-place culture and taking some time to celebrate hard work.

Don’t let lockdown stop you from showing gratitude!

What this can look like:

  • Hosting virtual happy hours, games & icebreakers
  • Sharing your gratitude by creating custom gifts and letters for your employees
  • Bringing in an expert to host virtual workshops

Contact us today at 905 844 8820 or email us at info@baicorp.ca to learn more about how you can get the most out of your benefits program.

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