How To Engage Employees In Wellness Programs?

How To Engage Employees In Wellness Programs

Employees that are engaged with their company's wellness programs are more successful, which often reflects in their productivity. But how do you get them involved? Here are some practical tips on engaging employees in wellness programs.

Offer Incentives

It’s no surprise that employees are more likely to take part in wellness initiatives when there’s something to gain. Offer incentives such as gift cards, discounts, or entry into a reward-structure (points for gifts and gift certificates). Incentives have the benefit of drawing in participants, and in turn, help encourage wellness behavior throughout the office.

Explain the Benefits

Make sure employees understand the benefits of engaging in the wellness program. Explain how improvements in their physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing will not only make them feel better, but will also help them to become more successful in the workplace. Drawing attention to the positive outcomes of participating in the program will help create an atmosphere of motivation and support.

Integrate the Wellness Program into Your Workplace

The wellness program should become a part of the company culture. Encourage employee involvement through creative changes in the office such as bulletin boards, newsletters, desk signs, or contests. Additionally, think about ways to adjust team-building activities so that they include healthy behaviors such as taking a walk or doing a yoga class together.

Create Personal Connections

Make sure that employees feel a personal connection to the program. They will be more likely to stay committed if they feel as though the program is tailored to their individual wellbeing. Offer support and encouragement to all participants, while also allowing for flexibility and freedom to pursue the activities that are most meaningful to them.

Make It Fun

Workplaces are often stressful and tedious, but adding an element of fun to the wellness program will make it much more attractive to participate. Find ways to gamify the program by incorporating rewards, challenges, or timed milestones. Utilize leaderboards and achievements to create healthy competition among participants.

Find Ways to Measure Success

Having the ability to measure success makes a difference in fostering participation and dedication to the program. Weigh the outcomes of the participants’ wellbeing, and use those results as an example of what the wellness program can achieve. This will help to further promote the program, while also displaying the true value of the efforts that went into creating it.

Host Educational Events

Education is key in helping to understand the importance of engaging in the wellness program. Consider hosting events such as lunch-and-learns or seminars to provide employees with tips and tools to implement activities into their daily routine. Additionally, invite guest speakers to discuss the benefits of the program and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Utilize Technology

The internet is filled with tools and programs to help motivate and track progress in the workplace. Connecting technology to the company wellness program can help to streamline activities and display real-time data. Additionally, having the convenience of using different mobile apps or technologies helps to make it easier for employees to participate and stay motivated.

Acknowledge Ongoing Commitment

Knowing that their dedication is appreciated is a great motivator for employees to stay involved in the wellness program. Acknowledge their efforts, and encourage them to continue to strive for success. Moreover, act as a role model and show other employees that it is possible to stay active and mindful without sacrificing performance.

Engaging employees in wellness programs isn’t always easy, but with the right approaches, it can be achieved. By providing incentives, explaining the benefits, integrating the program into the workplace, and harnessing the power of technology, you can create an environment of engagement and encourage employees to get involved.