BRINGING WELLNESS INTO THE WORKPLACE: 8 REASONS YOUR COMPANY NEEDS A WELLNESS PROGRAM

When you think about corporate wellness programs, many companies don’t know where to start, let alone know and understand the importance of them.

This article breaks down what a corporate wellness program is, and more importantly, why your own company needs one (more than you know).

An example of a brand doing it right

Before we get into the incredible benefits of corporate wellness, let’s first take a look at an example of a brand that exceeds in corporate wellness… Google.

The moment Google started in the ’90s, the company changed the game when it came to wellness in the workplace. They were the first to take such a unique approach to their employees’ happiness and satisfaction.

During an age of monotonous days, nine to fives and identical cubicles, Google added a corporate wellness program. Their aim was to create an environment where the best talent, creative minds and creative solutions could come together and thrive.

As a result, companies around the world are implementing wellness programs of their own.

What is a corporate wellness program?

Great question!

Now, before you start to think that you don’t have the budget to build an in-house training facility or gym, take a breath.

It is possible to implement similar practices aligned to Google’s corporate wellness program without it costing you an arm and a leg.

The trick is to get in some experts to help you through the process.

Understanding an employee wellness program

Simply put – this is a program that helps your employees stay healthy, which in turn helps them stay happy.

From group exercises and training programs to helping employees reach specific fitness goals such as losing weight or running a 5k. Wellness programs can be ongoing or once-off. Although, we recommend the implementation of ongoing wellness in the workplace.

By hiring an external company, we can help you to create a wellness program designed around your company’s goals and your employees’.

At WellBe, we bring our expert knowledge to the table and formulate plans that not only boost employee health but happiness too.

The benefits of a corporate wellness program

1. Increased Productivity

When people are encouraged to lead a healthier life through food and fitness, they are more likely to be productive than those who do not.

The benefits of improved personal health include:

• Higher energy levels
• More optimistic outlook on life and improved mood
• Fewer health issues and risks
• Better sleep which means increased concentration

2. Improved morale and loyalty

When you actively show your employees that you care about them through a wellness program, this creates a clear sense of belonging from each individual in your company.

Employees who feel valued will feel more attached and loyal to their company.

3. Reduced absenteeism

The benefits of healthy eating and exercise lead to a stronger immune system and stronger bodies. This means that employees are less likely to get sick.

4. Increased talent

When talented people are in search of a new career move, they are likely to choose a company that offers benefits such as corporate wellness.

People are more concerned with their wellbeing than ever before, this means they will value a company who understands their needs.

5. Improved teamwork

Some wellness initiatives can offer employees the opportunity to work together as teams. This form of interaction will aid in creating bonds and help teams work well together.

6. A fun environment and a break from work

At first, this may seem counterintuitive to the general workplace environment, but remember, everyone needs a break from time to time.

Work can often become repetitive and draining, this can put a damper on morale and lower productivity levels.

Wellness programs can include fun group exercises and fitness classes which provide a great break from the mundane workday routine.

Which is better than a bored employee turning to a scroll through social media, isn’t it?

7. Happier employees

When healthy eating and fitness is encouraged and supported, this leads to decreased stress levels and increased happiness levels.

A happy employee is a hard-working employee.

8. Sense of accomplishment

A wellness program will often challenge employees to reach certain fitness goals. This can range from being able to do 10 push-ups, run a race, or even give up smoking.

Those who are able to meet their goals will feel a great sense of accomplishment, which in turn, creates a proactive work atmosphere and gives employees the confidence they need to meet their professional goals too.

Wondering where to start?

Implementing an employee wellness program is a win-win situation and leads to a number of amazing benefits for your company.

If you are interested in a wellness program for your own company, then give us a call and let’s chat about what we can do for your employees and your brand.