Beyond enrollment: Creating a year-round focus on benefits

Boost morale and benefits with consistent updates and seasonal highlights

Annual enrollment might be the spotlight on employee benefits, but it shouldn't be the only time employees hear about the valuable perks they have access to. Major life events like pregnancy, adoption, marriage, and divorce happen throughout the year, and when they occur, it often requires employees to re-evaluate their benefits needs. Consistent communication throughout the year is key to maximizing benefit utilization and keeping employees satisfied and supported.

Why year-round benefits communication matters

Increased employee satisfaction:
When employees understand their benefits, they may feel more valued and appreciated.

Improved benefit utilization:
Regular communication can highlight underutilized benefits, potentially leading to cost savings for employees and the company.

Enhanced employee well-being:
By promoting wellness programs and preventive care, you can improve employee health and reduce absenteeism.

Stronger employer brand:
Demonstrating a commitment to employee well-being can attract and retain top talent.

Effective communication strategies

Leverage multiple channels: Use a variety of methods to reach employees with different communication preferences. Consider email, text messages, intranet, newsletters, posters, team meetings, and social media.

Tailor messages: Customize your communication based on employee demographics, roles, and life stages. For example, new parents might be interested in family leave benefits, while older employees may focus on retirement planning.

Highlight specific benefit features: Regularly showcase specific benefits and how they can improve employees' lives. Use real-life examples and testimonials to make your message more impactful.

Offer interactive opportunities: Encourage employee engagement through surveys, webinars, and benefit fairs. This helps gather feedback and address questions.

Celebrate success stories: Share stories of employees who have benefited from company programs. This can inspire others to take advantage of available resources.

A few ways to keep benefits top of mind all-year long

Monthly benefit spotlight: Dedicate a specific day or week each month to highlight a particular benefit.

Seasonal wellness campaigns: Tie benefits to relevant seasons, such as flu shot reminders in the fall or sun protection tips in the summer.

Financial wellness workshops: Offer educational sessions on topics like retirement planning, saving for college, and managing debt.

Employee recognition programs: Highlight employees who exemplify company values through benefit utilization.

So, even though annual enrollment is ending, your engagement and communication strategy shouldn’t. Remember, consistent communication invests in your employees' well-being and your company's success.

New York Life Group Benefit Solutions products and services are provided by Life Insurance Company of North America, New York Life Group Insurance Company of NY, and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Corporation, subsidiaries of New York Life Insurance Company. Life Insurance Company of North America is not authorized in NY and does not conduct business in NY.

SMRU 6943517 Exp. 08/22/2027