How to Create a Wellness Program That Works for Your Team

In modern workplaces, a solid employee wellbeing program is essential to boost morale, enhance productivity and reduce healthcare costs.

With employees at the heart of any successful organization, prioritizing their wellbeing can lead to happier, more resilient and more engaged teams. When your staff feel supported, they're more likely to invest their time and energy back into the workplace.

7 steps to develop a corporate wellness program

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to creating an engaging employee wellbeing program. It requires thoughtfulness, creativity and dedication – and a dash of humor never hurts for getting through tough spots.

1. Secure leadership buy-in and resources

Before you become your organization’s wellness superhero of your organization, you need leadership’s buy-in. After all, what’s a captain without a ship? Present your case for the investment – a strategy known to lower healthcare costs and increase retention rates. Once they’re on board, secure the necessary resources to get your program off the ground.

2. Create your wellbeing committee

Assemble a wellbeing committee. Think of this as forming your very own Avengers team, but instead of superheroes, you bring together staff from various departments who share your passion for wellbeing. This diverse group will help ensure that the program is inclusive, tailored to different needs and engaging for all employees.

3. Assess organizational needs and employee interests

What does your team actually want?

Rather than guessing, gather insights through surveys or informal chats to identify what types of initiatives would resonate most with your employees. Is it yoga classes, mental health workshops or, perhaps, a weekly walking club?

The more you know about your team's preferences, the more effective your wellbeing program will be.

4. Set clear, measurable goals

Chart your desired outcomes – do you want to decrease sick days, improve workplace morale or enhance productivity? Be sure your goals are clear and measurable. It’s hard to steer the ship if you don’t know where you’re headed.

5. Design tailored wellness initiatives

With insights from your committee and employee preferences at hand, design initiatives that cater to your workforce’s unique needs. Whether it’s a fitness challenge, mindfulness workshops or virtual cooking classes, tailor your offerings to maximize participation and enjoyment.

6. Promote the program and encourage participation

Once your program is ready to sail, it’s time to spread the word! Use engaging newsletters, eye-catching posters, and social media to promote your initiatives. Consider gamifying participation to spark interest – who doesn’t love a little friendly competition?

7. Implement and monitor progress

Finally, launch your wellbeing program with gusto! Regularly monitor progress by collecting feedback and assessing participation rates. This will help you refine your offerings and celebrate successes, ensuring the program remains a vibrant part of your workplace culture.

Start developing your wellness program with Reward Gateway | Edenred

Creating an effective employee wellbeing program takes some effort, but the benefits are well worth it. Not only does investing in your employees' wellbeing pay off in healthcare cost savings, but it also fosters an engaged and motivated workforce. For an even easier start, consider partnering with Reward Gateway’s Employee Wellbeing solution. Let us help you develop initiatives that resonate with your team while giving you the tools to measure success. Ready to take your first step toward a better workplace? Get in touch today and let’s create something wonderful together!

Learn more about how Reward Gateway | Edenred can help you make your corner of the world a better place to work!