How to Communicate Employee Benefits—and Leverage Them for Engagement
Feb 20, 2025
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Karen Maldonado, SHRM's Director of Total Rewards, dives into the intricacies of communicating employee benefits effectively. She shares insights on tailoring benefits programs to cater to diverse cultural needs, enhancing global engagement. Maldonado emphasizes the importance of clarity and accessibility in benefits guides. She discusses creative strategies like virtual benefits fairs and year-round education initiatives to ensure employees understand and fully utilize their benefits. Practical tips abound for boosting recruitment and retention through well-structured communication!
A culturally-aware benefits package that addresses diverse employee needs significantly boosts engagement and retention in the workforce.
Clear, user-friendly communication of benefits, including digital guides and engaging resources, helps employees understand and appreciate their entitlements.
Deep dives
Understanding Global Workforce Needs
Understanding the diverse needs of employees across various countries is essential for creating an effective benefits package. Different cultures often have specific entitlements that influence what employees value most, such as retirement savings or family support. Compensation professionals must take the time to analyze their talent pool and tailor benefits accordingly, which can significantly increase employee engagement. This culturally-aware approach ensures that the rewards system resonates with employees and is relevant to their unique circumstances.
Creating an Accessible Benefits Guide
A well-organized benefits guide is crucial for ensuring employees understand and appreciate their available rewards. It should incorporate the organization's culture, mission, and key policies while presenting benefits in a clear and user-friendly manner. Using straightforward language and maintaining a digital format can enhance accessibility, allowing employees to easily find information. Including links to additional resources and keeping the content engaging can greatly improve how employees navigate their benefits.
Leveraging Benefits for Employee Engagement
Utilizing a comprehensive benefits package can effectively boost employee engagement from recruitment through retention. It is vital for recruiters to possess a deep understanding of the benefits to attract top talent, as candidates often prioritize the overall compensation package rather than just salary. Regularly communicating benefits and utilizing creative methods, such as health fairs or themed activities, can remind employees of their entitlements and encourage utilization. Additionally, monitoring usage statistics allows organizations to identify gaps and tailor their offerings to meet evolving employee needs.
Keren Maldonado, SHRM’s own director, total rewards, unpacks the nuanced art of communicating your organization’s benefit offerings in ways that are inclusive, easily accessible, and relevant to the diverse needs of your workforce. Maldonado shares practical tips for making benefits communication clear and engaging, while emphasizing how tailored strategies can enhance employee recruitment and retention.
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