According to The Small Business Wellness Initiative---a community collaborative project funded by the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services---wellness programs improve employee health, morale and loyalty and contribute positively to the corporate bottom line. With all those advantages for the individual and the organization, one might think that developing a successful wellness program only requires starting it. However, changing lifestyle behaviors requires more than creating a wellness program, it requires creating a set of short-term motivators for long-term benefit.
Instant Rewards
Most corporations enter into a wellness program with the goal of lowering costs. Operating costs decline as employees become healthier and have fewer sick days and workplace accidents. Benefit costs may decline because of the participation of employees in wellness programs. The Small Business Wellness report suggests that for every $1 invested in health promotion, a company can save $3 to $5 in health and safety costs.
The return on investment takes time. To motivate employees to participate, offer them an immediate reduction in their insurance premiums for joining the wellness program, and for each wellness activity they consistently undertake, such as exercise, smoking secession or preventive testing.
Convenient
Inc.com reports on the successful development of wellness programs that made wellness convenient for employees. Some low-cost corporate activities that facilitate developing wellness include placing free fresh fruit in the break room, providing healthy menu choices in the cafeteria and having guest speakers on wellness topics.
Other companies offer on-site flu-shots, health screenings, fitness challenges and lunchtime walking clubs. Participation in wellness development programs becomes more likely when activities integrate easily into employee's workday.
Be a Role Model
Whether the human resources department or senior management initiates a wellness program, the place to begin demonstrating corporate commitment resides at the top tier of the organization's management. Leadership means setting an example. Seeing senior managers walking, eating healthily or working out provides strong motivation for employees---especially those who seek informal face time with a boss.
Reverse role models also affect employee behavior. An overweight, smoking, pre-diabetic manager offers little incentive to his or her employees. Begin the sales job for corporate wellness by engaging senior staff to help integrate wellness into the corporate culture. Share employees' success stories in organizational communications, such as newsletters and internal websites.
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