How can you use a Corporate Wellness program as a retention tool?

Although the main concerns for many companies are often times linked to “the numbers” and the achievement of their bottom line, we have to acknowledge that “your people” are the ones that make that possible.  In an age where employees are a dime a dozen there is a tremendous value in acquiring and retaining great talent.  Companies spend millions of dollars a year on hiring and training employees just to see them jump ship to their competitors.  So what are some of the tools that you can use to hold on to good employees?  One of the answers are Corporate Wellness programs.  Here are some of the reasons why.

•  Work Place Morale: From nutritional advice to exercise programs, Wellness Programs provide healthier employees and allows staff to bond during group activities.  Exercise also releases endorphins which have been scientifically proven to enhance moods.

• Improved communication – You would be surprised as to how much of a common occurrence it is for employees who do work in different departments never connect with each other.  Or even employees who work in the same department that never converse with one another.  Through regular participation in wellness programs, participants are able to form organic relationships and usually result in more open communication which can help both business wise and personally.

• Increased Productivity:  It is proven that when an employee is healthy they are more productive. Being healthy reduces stress, increases concentration, and raises energy levels.  It also helps to ensure desired level of performance and consistency.  More productive employees lead to advancing employees.  If employees feel like they are advancing in their careers, it tends to make them feel better about what their roles are in the company.
• It shows that you care  At a time where paying more money to employees is a hard to accomplish, extra perks like full service wellness programs shows you’re the employees that you do care about their health and wellness. It shows the employees that you are taking measures to ensure their health and well-being is a high priority.  This breeds loyalty and responsibility from your employees.

This all ties in the old adage “It’s cheaper to keep em”.  This blog entry was not written to convince you on whether to retain your employees or not.  If your desire is to retain the good employees, then incorporating a wellness program is an excellent way to do just that.