A Healthy Investment

If this pandemic has taught us anything, it's that we can't take health for granted. And with the new year fast approaching, people are more focused on staying healthy than ever before. This is great news, not just for people's well-being, but for their employers' bottom line. After all, physically active employees incur lower health costs. And when you factor in the intangible benefits of improved focus, productivity and morale, establishing corporate wellness programs can pay serious dividends.

Lower Costs

A wellness program is an investment, and a good one at that. A recent study of large companies showed that employers who offered wellness programs experienced slower growth in health costs than ones without programs. On average, these companies saved $565 annually for each employee who participated. That's approximately $2-$4 saved for every dollar spent on the program, which is a pretty healthy ROI. (Pun intended.)

A Big Boost

Employee health and workplace productivity share a strong correlation. Healthy employees take fewer sick days and are 25% more likely to have higher job performance, according to one survey. Wellness programs are also a great way to build a strong company culture, which often leads to higher morale and employee engagement. And companies with happy, engaged employees tend to experience lower turnover and are 21% more profitable (Smarp).

Positive Changes

These programs encourage important behavioral changes in employees, like increased physical activity, healthier eating habits and more regular sleep schedules. And this improved physical health has a positive impact on mental well-being too. It all results in a happier, healthier, more productive employee.

Get Employees Excited

Starting a wellness program is one thing. Getting employees to participate is another. But a little incentive goes a long way. Give out company swag in exchange for signups, or hold a contest between departments to see who can get the most participants, then give a prize to the winner. Get creative with it and see how many folks participate.