How manufacturers can enhance their company well-being programs

Manufacturers desire a wellness program that works. In an era where employee well-being is increasingly a focus, manufacturing companies are no exception in recognizing the importance of fostering a healthy workforce. The desire for a functioning well-being program is not merely a trend but a strategic imperative to attract and retain talent, boost productivity, and create a positive company culture. However, the burning questions remain: Is implementing such a program possible? And how do you know if employees will utilize it?  

The familiar statement: "We've tried a few things; nothing seems to stick."

For many manufacturing companies, the struggle to find a wellness program that sticks is a familiar story. Countless efforts, from sporadic fitness challenges to one-off seminars, have been made by employers. Yet, the desired engagement and impact are lacking. The journey to an effective well-being program is not without challenges like lack of awareness and education on what is out there and financial constraints, especially in industries where blue-collar workers constitute a sizable portion of the workforce.

Cost-efficient, engaging, and effective delivery for blue-collar employers

Despite the hurdles, there is hope. Diverse options have emerged in the market that cater specifically to blue-collar employees. It's not just about the return on investment and the value of investment but about something more fundamental: buy-in from leadership and a robust communication strategy. These two factors are the linchpin of success for wellness and well-being initiatives.

While there are many ways to boost employee well-being engagement in manufacturing spaces, here are some key strategies to get started:

A single access point like a mobile app

Convenience is paramount, especially for workers who are often on the move or stationed in various locations. A single access point, via phone or mobile app, streamlines engagement with the well-being program. This accessibility eliminates barriers, making participation seamless.

Granting access to spouses

Families play a vital role in an individual's well-being journey, so extending program benefits to employees' spouses can be a strategic move for employers. This not only fosters a sense of community but also encourages a supportive environment for employees to embrace healthier lifestyles together with their families.

365-day communication plan

Consistency is vital in maintaining engagement. A well-planned communication strategy that delivers relevant content, reminders, and updates throughout the year keeps the program on employees' radar. This continuous interaction reinforces that well-being is a year-round commitment, not a fleeting endeavor.

Use artificial intelligence (AI) to drive personalized messaging, challenges, and experiences

The power of AI lies in its ability to tailor experiences to individual preferences and needs. Applying AI to customize messaging, challenges, and experiences boosts relevance and resonates with employees on a personal level. This personalized touch makes the program feel like a bespoke journey rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Transforming engagement levels

Breaking through the engagement barrier is key to reaping the benefits of a well-being program. Traditional point solutions, like weight management and smoking cessation programs, often need help to achieve more than 5% engagement, leaving room for improvement. However, the implementation of the strategies mentioned above has shown promising results.

Laying the foundation

Manufacturing companies recognize the importance of employee well-being, and the quest for an effective program is still worthwhile. By focusing on leadership buy-in and a well-structured communication strategy, companies can lay the foundation for a successful initiative. The journey is challenging, but the destination—a healthier, happier workforce—is undoubtedly worth the effort.

Meeting the challenges

In response to the growing demands of the modern manufacturing workforce for comprehensive employee benefits, Marsh McLennan Agency offers a range of tools and solutions that cater to these evolving needs. Among these, the well-being consulting service stands as an essential guide. Our consultants provide advice and strategies to enhance your employee’s wellness and engagement.

Our Mental Health Toolkit extends a supportive hand by equipping your organization with resources to address and prioritize mental well-being, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment. For a full-scope approach, our Well-being Playbooks serve as comprehensive guides, outlining actionable steps to create a culture of well-being within your company.

To support the effective implementation of these initiatives, our Well-being Communication Toolkit gives you a template for engaging communication. Through these self-service toolkit offerings, Marsh McLennan Agency paves the way for a future where your employee well-being takes center stage in the manufacturing workplace landscape.

Download Marsh McLennan Agency’s Benefits Trends Report to learn more and reach out to a manufacturing specialist to discover how we can help your organization thrive during these challenging workforce changes.

Download report here.