Wellness programs are, more often than not, a special employee “perk.” Companies that offer them are often well regarded by job seekers and employees; these firms are seen as going above and beyond the call of duty to provide for their employees.
But the idea of employee wellness has been around for decades now, and it’s something that most firms would do well to pay attention to. In fact, business owners should make employee wellness a priority.
Much of healthcare focuses on a problem-solution model: When there’s a problem, you go to the doctor to get it fixed. Otherwise, you don’t tend to think much about health or wellness.
Many people take the same attitude toward cars: If there’s a problem, you take the vehicle to the mechanic. Otherwise, you keep driving it until it doesn’t work. However, most mechanics will tell you about the value of preventative maintenance—doing the little things to keep your vehicle in working order so it continues to run longer, without major issues.
Most healthcare workers will tell you that you’d do well to take a similar approach to your health: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Why wait for a major problem to develop? Consider your health every day, and do small things to ensure you maintain good health as long as possible, instead of waiting until you’re really sick.
Since the Industrial Revolution in the late 1700s, there’s been concern about the safety of jobs—and how they can make people sick. Construction workers, for example, might be concerned about ensuring they don’t suffer back injuries. But office work poses risks too—repetitive strain injuries, the risks associated with being sedentary, and stress are all major problems.
This is where the idea of employee wellness comes into play. Instead of waiting for the construction worker to hurt his back, employers should encourage their employees to take preventative measures. Similarly, the office worker should be encouraged to get up and move, and to manage or reduce stress.
You might think employee wellness is another fad or a set of perks that Silicon Valley companies offer to their Millennial employees. But there are very good reasons that all businesses should consider employee wellness important.
You invest a lot in your employees: Hiring and training is an expensive proposition. When employees get sick, they cost your business more than you might think. They use their benefits, which can drive up premiums; they also take time off work, which lowers productivity. Even if they’re present, they might not be as productive, simply because they don’t feel well.
In the worst scenarios, someone will need to go on leave (which you may pay for through insurance premiums), and you’ll have to hire a new employee as a replacement. Wouldn’t it be easier and less costly to simply ensure your employees stayed healthy in the first place? The answer is yes!
Healthy employees tend to be better workers. They’re less stressed, more creative, and more productive. They have lower absenteeism, and since they’re present and feeling well, they often contribute more to the team. Better yet, they’re more engaged with the company—they’re bringing their absolute best to the table.
Employees who have good benefits are also happier employees. A wellness program not only supports employees’ physical health, but their mental wellbeing too. Engaged employees are less likely to jump ship and more likely to be productive—which boosts your bottom line.
Employee wellness isn’t a fad or a trend—it’s simply good business!