Employee wellness coaching is a valuable component of a comprehensive workplace health program. It helps employees take control of their health, and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases that lead to expensive healthcare costs.
Well-designed wellness programs can save employers anywhere from $1 to $3 for every dollar spent on them over a two to nine year period, according to the US Chamber of Commerce. Employees who participate in wellness programs are less likely to miss work due to illness or injury and are more productive even when they’re at work. The best wellness program providers understand that not every company has the same desired outcomes and goals for their wellness initiatives. They use a variety of tools and services to help clients meet their specific needs, including:
A company’s employees are its greatest asset. Keeping them happy and healthy can improve productivity and morale, and it’s a big reason why more and more companies are implementing wellness programs into their benefits packages.
Workplace wellness programs can include everything from onsite clinics and fitness centers to healthier snacks and more. However, getting employees to utilize these resources is just as important as having them available. That’s why adding employee wellness coaching can have such a big impact on employee engagement and overall wellness in the workplace.
During wellness coaching sessions, coaches guide participants through goal setting, motivational interviewing, and behavior change techniques. They also encourage participants to set realistic goals that are achievable and sustainable. They provide support and accountability to help them maintain their new habits and overcome obstacles that may come up. Many providers offer flexible scheduling for wellness coaching sessions so that employees can fit them into their busy schedules.
Employees that are healthy and able to work effectively tend to be more engaged at the office, which can improve overall team morale. Employees who are experiencing stress or other challenges at home, such as financial difficulties or relationship issues, can find comfort in knowing they have a safe and confidential place to turn. This can give them peace of mind and a renewed focus on their work.
Having access to a wellness coach who can address these issues can be beneficial for any employee, regardless of their current health status. In fact, companies that implement wellness initiatives see a reduction in absenteeism, which can reduce the cost of hiring temporary workers and paying for overtime.
A wellness coach can also help employees identify early warning signs of health problems like high cholesterol, elevated glucose levels, and sedentary lifestyles, so that they can seek medical attention as needed. This can prevent serious, and sometimes life-threatening, conditions from arising that would require time off from work to recover from. This can also help employers manage the cost of workers’ compensation and insurance premiums, as well as improve employee satisfaction and productivity.