You’ve done the research, you’ve selected a workplace wellbeing vendor and it’s time to roll out your employee wellbeing programme. But … where should you start?
Employee wellbeing programmes have a lot of moving parts and they can impact almost every part of your business. You’ll want to ensure that you set your programme up for success right from the very beginning. A smooth implementation is key if you want to see great engagement levels and participation across the business.
Launching an employee wellbeing programme can sound daunting, but don’t panic! We are here to help. Read on to learn the best ways to create excitement and ensure the success of your amazing new programme.
Establish business goals and objectives
If you didn’t already establish clear business goals that are tied to your employee wellbeing programme, then it’s important to do so now. As your programme grows, you’ll want to make sure you’re measuring your results against your key objectives. Look at any problems or pain points that are facing your business, whether it’s engagement, absenteeism, presenteeism, morale, teamwork or associated health costs, and keep tabs on the progression of each of these categories throughout the course of the year. Remember — it may take some time to see results, so be patient.
Create a communication plan
Prior to launch, you’ll want to let your employees know that a wellbeing programme is on its way to establish the lines of communication and generate excitement. Then, create a communication plan starting with the launch of your programme through at least the next few months. Include a mix of mediums, such as email, posters or flyers, and informational sessions, to make sure your messages get through.
Download our free guide to writing an impactful employee benefits newsletter.
Do a tech-check
Before you move forward with your launch, are all systems go? You’ll want to double-check that everything is in place, from adjusting any firewalls and whitelisting to the company intranet page. This will help ensure your employees have an optimal experience, with no set backs.
Party time!
Celebrate your new employee wellbeing programme with a launch party! This can be on any scale — so think about what’s appropriate from a budget and time investment perspective. Your launch party can be as simple as a stand-up meeting where you help people download the app and register or you can plan a day of wellbeing activities where everyone can join in for fun team events like lunch walks, bike rides, picnics, gym classes, yoga classes or meditation sessions. Be sure to engage remote employees with a webinar, a company-wide announcement that’s live-streamed or an open forum over your company’s chat system.
Kick things off with a workplace challenge
Workplace challenges can add energy and excitement to a wellbeing programme. Being a part of a team is also a powerful motivator. Help your employees take the first step toward better health with a fun and engaging company-wide challenge.
Looking for more inspiration? Download our free list of wellbeing activities that will motivate and energise your workforce.
Repeat and reinforce
People are busy. They may miss a message or simply forget. By repeating and reinforcing health and wellbeing initiatives in the workplace, employees will start to see it as an intrinsic part of the company culture.
Recruit and rally wellbeing champions
Health and wellbeing champions provide motivation, support and encouragement for their fellow employees. These champions can lead the crew and set a positive example. Once a culture of health and wellbeing starts in the workplace, it can be contagious.
Involve your business leaders
Enlisting your C-suite is a great way to garner excitement for your employee wellbeing programme and boost participation. Whether your CEO joins a group run or sends out an email congratulating employees who complete their profiles, it’s important to demonstrate that leadership is on board.