Some of our most recent blogs have noted the importance of positive company culture in attracting and retaining employees. While you might initially think of ping pong tables and happy hours, it is actually structured employee benefits that play the largest role in sustaining a supportive work environment. Which ones are most important to employees? Take a look below.
Recognize Good Work
According to GreatPlaceToWork.com, having a measurable and consistent program for rewarding employee excellence demonstrates that your organization values each individual and their contributions to overall company success. These initiatives should align with company goals and can recognize certain people, teams or projects. While sales goals are important, think of all aspects of your business where you want your employees to help you improve – customer service, teamwork, efficiency – and create a way to measure and reward achievement. Money does not always have to be the award. Get creative with your incentives to make the “getting there” and “celebration” fun for everyone!
Provide Opportunities for Growth
Contributing to organizations that reflect their values is high on the priority list for many employees. But once you have them on board, it is essential to give them ways to expand their skill set – or they will go to the next job. Indeed.com suggests training programs, formal mentorship relationships, tuition reimbursement or regular lunch and learns as some impactful options. There are many organizations that offer turn-key training and mentoring programming, so you do not have to create them on your own. Also, associations like BAGI have members with unique specialties that can be great resources for small-group presentations. Offering opportunities to allow your employees to grow their careers in YOUR organization rather than your competitors goes a long way in creating a nurturing workplace.
Embrace the Whole Employee
Your employees are more than workers, they are spouses, parents, children, siblings and community members. Also, life challenges happen to everyone at some point. Helping your employees take care of their many aspects of self creates a feeling of acceptance and compassion within your company culture. Benefits like group health care (which the Wharton & Power Insurance Team would be happy to help you with), flexible schedules, employee assistance programs and daycare options allow employees to better manage their whole selves while contributing to business goals.
As a small business owner, implementing employee benefits that support a positive culture may seem like an overwhelming task. We are here for you! While group health insurance is our specialty, we have many corporate partners that can help you find efficient yet impactful ways to create an enjoyable work environment. Send us an email or give us a call at 317.663.4138 for more information.
