Engaging employees by prioritizing culture is a forward-thinking approach that can play a pivotal role in a company’s success. By fostering a work environment that considers whole-person health, businesses can realize significant benefits that lead to a more sustainable, competitive business model and drive long-term performance. A 2019 Gallup study states, highly engaged teams show 21% greater profitability.1
Employees want to be proud of their company. By investing in a highly engaged culture through a strong mission, collective well-being care, philanthropy initiatives, and community engagement, a business can build an engaged and thriving workforce.
A mission-driven culture: The ultimate game-changer
A mission-driven culture can be the foundation upon which a strong, engaged culture can be built. When employees are aligned with a company’s purpose and values, they are more likely to be motivated, inspired, and committed to their work. This can lead to increased creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills, ultimately driving business success.
As Juan Chaluja, Senior Vice President, Florida Blue Commercial Markets, notes, “Being mission based or mission focused…can not only increase sales, but it can also improve a company’s reputation.” By leading with strong mission, companies can create a sense of purpose and meaning that resonates with employees and drives business results.
Having an active mission- based culture reinforces that as a business, you don’t just care about the bottom line. Employees can become emotionally invested in the company and its future. “By fostering a culture of open communication and employee empowerment, companies can unlock the full potential of their workforce and drive long-term success,” states Chaluja.
Quality health benefits: Still a sound investment
Providing quality health benefits and well-being initiatives are foundational elements of a highly engaged workforce. Research indicates, 89% of workers at companies that support well-being initiatives are more likely to recommend their company as a good place to work.1 Working with your employees to understand their health needs and your insurer or broker to identify and offer the right comprehensive coverage options can reduce absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover rates. Moreover, healthy employees are more productive, efficient, and effective, leading to increased revenue and profitability.
Additionally, engagement boosting programs and initiatives can further enrich a businesses’ culture with solutions like:
- Value-added initiatives: Fitness classes, meditation sessions, or nutrition workshops leading to improved physical and mental health can increase energy and enhance job satisfaction.
- Flexible work arrangements: Work arrangements such as telecommuting or flexible hours empower employees with work-life balance, reduce mental stress, and increase productivity.
- Employee recognition: Recognizing and rewarding employees can have a profound impact on morale, motivation, and job satisfaction, leading to retention and overall performance.
- Leadership support: Having leaders model healthy behaviors and prioritize wellness can inspire and motivate employees and create a ripple effect that is authentic, sustainable, and impactful.
Philanthropy: A win-win for business and employees
Beyond the foundational elements of quality health benefits and a mission-driven culture, businesses that prioritize philanthropy and corporate responsibility can send a powerful message to their employees about their values and commitment to making a positive impact. Committed to leading the way at Florida Blue, Chaluja adds, “Supporting nonprofits and causes that team members care about can engage employees, motivate them to be more productive at work, and increase their overall job satisfaction.” Employees who see their company actively giving back to the community are more likely to feel a sense of pride and purpose in their work, knowing that they are part of an organization that cares about more than just its bottom line. This can lead to increased job satisfaction, engagement, and retention, as employees feel a deeper connection to the company’s mission and values.
Reaping the benefits of a comprehensive culture
By creating a culture of wellness, businesses can reap numerous benefits that positively impact their bottom line. Businesses can create a comprehensive culture that not only supports the well-being of their employees and deepens their commitment, but also drives business success by improving productivity and enhancing their competitive edge.
References:
1Beheshti, Naz. "10 Timely Statistics About The Connection Between Employee Engagement And Wellness." Forbes, January 16, 2019. https://www.forbes.com/sites/nazbeheshti/2019/01/16/10-timely-statistics-about-the-connection-between-employee-engagement-and-wellness/
