Many people, especially employers, assume that job applicants and employees want a hefty paycheck the most. But in reality, they value good benefits packages over high pay. They seek employers who offer benefits that support their health and well-being, especially today, with a pandemic yet to be eradicated.
But even before the onset of COVID-19, workers have already been calling for wellness at work. They are demanding the end of the “burnout” culture, in which overworking is glorified. Indeed, many employees who render overtime weren’t paid justly but were simply commended for being “hard-working.” On the other hand, people who leave the office on time were seen as lazy.
When did we start normalizing overworking? Did employers realize that they could save a lot on payroll by letting their workers render extra hours unpaid? Sure, it gave them an advantage, but was there a need to be unfair?
While it’s wise for companies to reduce their costs, they shouldn’t do it at the expense of their employees. If you want to decrease your company’s turnover rate, consider these ways to promote wellness in your workplace, instead of overworking:
1. Offer Wellness Benefits or Programs
These days, the biggest concerns of employees are financial stability, social and emotional health, and health and nutrition resources. They may also be seeking family health services. Check with your human resources department to see if whether they address these concerns. Urge them to come up with wellness programs or benefits to ease your employees’ burden.
Consider a benefits package that will help your employees cut down their prescription drug costs. Many HR managers go for GoodRx or Medicare. GoodRx is a website comparing the prices of drugs in over 70,000 U.S. pharmacies, while Medicare is an insurance plan.
However, some insurance plans are too costly, so compare various plans from various providers. Choose the one that covers substantial services with a manageable premium. Also, ask your employees if there’s anything specific they need so that you can find a way to give it to them.
2. Offer Other Competitive Benefits, Like Life Insurance and Flexible Work Schedules
Medical, dental, and vision insurances are just the basics. To retain talent, you need a set of competitive benefits that gives you an edge over other employers. In addition to health insurance, maybe you can also offer supplemental insurance. It will allow your employees to pay for additional insurance, like life insurance or disability coverage. Considering the vulnerability of everyone’s health nowadays, supplemental insurance may increase your employees’ satisfaction.
Another attractive benefit that’s been gaining popularity is unlimited (paid) time off. It is awarded to full-time employees with a consistent track record of performing well. It may sound absurd, even foolish, to give your employees such freedom, but you can actually keep them more motivated that way. Employees are happier to work for you if you keep them happy as well. So, erase the mentality that employees are only motivated by paychecks or regular company trips.
If you’re still intimidated by the idea of giving unlimited time-off, at least go for allowing flexible work schedules. Everybody needs a work-life balance, and nobody can achieve that with a frigid, fixed schedule.
3. Educate Your Team About Health and Wellness
Some industries, particularly hazardous ones like construction, aren’t as informed about health and wellness as other industries. Many construction workers are resigned to the fact that their jobs are unsafe.
But no one should feel threatened in their workplace. The health and safety hazards may never go away from construction, mining, and manufacturing sites, but you can reduce them. Providing your workers with high-quality safety materials is the first step. Educating them about the importance of health and wellness should be next.
Workers in the construction, mining, and manufacturing industry are at risk of injuries and disabling conditions due to their repetitive movements. Increase their awareness about such through hosting seminars in your workplace. Your workers should know that they can prevent injuries and disabilities through exercises, stretches, and other healthy habits.
4. End Work in the Office
You’ll never end the burnout culture if you continue bringing work home. If you refuse to answer work calls and emails once you’ve already clocked out, then you should also stop expecting your employees to keep on working at the end of a workday. Contrary to popular belief, productivity isn’t working all the time. Rather, it’s accomplishing all your tasks within the time given. If your working hours are from nine to five, then all work should be done only within those hours. Working overtime should be discouraged, unless necessary.
Every company needs happy and healthy employees. You cannot share your success with people who’d rather be working for somebody else. Celebrate your team by putting value to their health and well-being, and you’d be rewarded with loyalty and optimal performances.
