Very! Gallup reports that U.S. workers are among the most stressed in the world: 57% of North American workers (U.S. and Canada) report feeling increased stress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, compared with 43% globally. Experts predict that a focus on the health and wellness of employees will be a key predictor of future success.

According to a survey from Ginger, 95% of employees who received mental health support over the last year reported that it also helped them at work. Although an overwhelming majority of CEOs (96%) think they are doing enough for mental health, only 69% of employees agree. This gap between perception and reality represents a great opportunity for forward leaning companies.

Younger generations especially expect more than just a paycheck from their employer. We know the impact that Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria have on employment decisions as well as company performance. A workplace that also provides wellness support will better attract and retain key talent.

What to do?

The benefits of a corporate wellness program are well documented, and even more critical to a company’s performance in a post-COVID workplace:

• A more engaged workforce
• Safer driving and equipment operation
• Lower liability costs
• Lower medical insurance costs
• Safer work practices
• More productive training and safety meetings
• Fewer work-related accidents and injuries
• Improved employee and company trust

Instituting a formal corporate wellness program or building wellness initiatives into an existing employee incentive, reward, or recognition program is a good start. Consider increasing the focus on components that enhance an employee’s career, social, physical, and financial wellbeing, as well as enabling a sense of community. Stress in any of these areas will affect employee performance and engagement. Some examples of components that can be included in a corporate wellness program are:

• Professional development workshops
• Mentoring programs
• Personal finance or money management seminars
• Nutrition classes
• Additional training or cross-training
• Stress-reduction opportunities such as meditation or yoga

As employees return to the workplace, they expect more than a return to normal. Employees expect to feel safe in their work environment and expect a workplace that supports their wellbeing.

For expert advice on designing an effective corporate wellness program through our all-in-one wellness solution platform, contact one of our Incentive Professionals today!

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