The Wellness Express

HR Trends ⚫ Comics ⚫ Expert Insights

6th December 2024

In Today’s Newsletter;

The Expert Exchange with Abhinay Samson - Head of People & Culture at Zelis Healthcare India Private Limited.
The Secret to Boosting Participation in Wellness Programs.
Our Comic Strip - Fun. Yet. Insightful - Episode 1 - The Wellness Check.

The Expert Exchange

Abhinay Samson

Head of People & Culture at Zelis Healthcare India Private Limited

Q: Why is Engagement Essential in Wellness Programs?

A: Employee engagement drives the success of wellness initiatives by improving health, boosting productivity, and reducing costs.

At Zelis Healthcare, the "Wellness360" program exemplifies this through its six pillars: Career Development, Community Involvement, Emotional and Financial Support, Physical Health, and Sustainability.

Fun activities like healthy cooking challenges and 10,000-step competitions foster participation, promote health, and build team morale.

Engagement isn’t just participation—it’s the key to creating a healthier, more connected workforce that thrives.

Here's why it's vital:

Improved Health Outcomes: Engaged employees are more likely to adopt healthier habits, reducing chronic disease risks.

Boosted Morale: Wellness activities, like team challenges, enhance camaraderie and job satisfaction.

Enhanced Productivity: Stress management workshops empower employees to focus better at work.

Better Work-Life Balance: Flexible work options and wellness sessions prevent burnout.

Culture of Wellness: Active participation creates a positive environment that values health.

Actionable Insights: Engagement data helps refine programs to align with employees' needs.

Q: What is the impact of a wellness program on an individual’s mindset?

A: The Zelis P&C team boosts participation in wellness programs with a focused and inclusive approach:

Effective Communication: Regular newsletters, emails, and intranet updates inform employees about wellness initiatives and resources.

Leadership Support: Senior leaders and managers actively promote and participate in wellness activities, setting an example.

Personalization: Wellness assessments and tailored plans meet individual employee needs.

Community Building: Team challenges, social events, and Business Resource Groups (BRGs) foster belonging and camaraderie.

Continuous Improvement: Feedback-driven adjustments ensure programs remain engaging and relevant.

Education & Resources: Workshops, seminars, and online tools empower employees on their wellness journey.

This comprehensive strategy creates a culture of wellness and encourages active participation.

What’s the Secret to High Participation in Wellness Programs?

Imagine planning a grand feast, carefully curated to delight your guests—yet only a few show up. Now, picture this as an HR leader: after months spent crafting a wellness program with health check-ups, interactive sessions, and awareness, participation is low, and interest is fading.

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Why Aren't Wellness Programs Engaging Employees?

Low Participation

The Integrated Benefits Institute (IBI) reveals low participation rates across various wellness programs: With 63% of employers reporting minimal involvement in weight loss initiatives, 50% in nutrition programs, and 56% in mental health offerings.

Common Barriers

The main obstacles to engagement include time constraints (60.9%), limited interest (36.9%), and lack of awareness or access (34.2%). These factors show how common hurdles prevent employees from taking part.

Lack of Appeal

The data highlights a clear opportunity for employers to enhance the appeal and accessibility of wellness programs. Addressing these barriers can help boost participation and maximize the impact of wellness initiatives.

8 Winning Tips to Boost Participation

Let’s explore how to make your program one they won’t want to miss!

1) Use polls to let employees choose.

2) Leadership involvement bolsters commitment.

3) Regular communication fosters active employee engagement.

4) Team-based challenges encourage camaraderie.

5) Rewards for participation increase involvement.

6) Flexible scheduling enhances convenience.

7) Success stories inspire and motivate.

8) Family wellness initiatives build support and trust.

With these tips, wellness initiatives can truly resonate and drive the expected employee participation.

F.Y.I - Episode 1: The Wellness Check

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