Benefits Think

Even though cash tops employees’ holiday wish lists this year, Michael Levy, president of Online Rewards, says it’s time to re-examine the conventional wisdom regarding the value of year-end bonuses. He offers three bonus secrets that employers need to know.

EBA Contributor Andrew Torelli was shocked to hear health care statistics recently that makes him rethink what the real health care crises in this country are and how to properly address them.

A recent Health Affairs study that concludes the 10 modifiable health risks only connect to about 20% of health care spending. Thus, says guest blogger Linda K. Riddell, a realistic benefits manager should acknowledge that the most successful wellness program may only have a limited impact.

There is a rarely a plan of how "pretend sales goals" are going to actually be met, says EBA Contributor Kevin Trokey. He provides seven cultural issues to consider when selling product.

In a brush up on voluntary, Prudential's Jim Gemus explains the advantages in offering voluntary to you, your clients and their employees in this challenging business environment.

It’s likely no one pays more attention to retirement plan fees than the plan fiduciary, says The Principal Financial’s Aaron Friedman. After all it’s their job to work with the service provider and financial professional to make sure the fees paid by the plan are “reasonable.” But what exactly does “reasonable” mean and what does it have to with cars?

According to author Bob Nelson, Zappos offers new hires $3,000 to agree not to come back as a way to test employees' true desire for their jobs. Sound recruiting, or employment entrapment?

Brits who smoke — as well as those who are overweight, have high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other health risks — receive anywhere from a 7%-16% higher annuity in retirement income than those with good health. Huh?

Results from Towers Watson’s recent Global Workforce Study that shows almost half of U.S. workers (49%) are willing to trade paid time off and future career advancement opportunities for guaranteed retirement benefits. Why? Do employees think a secure retirement largely is out of their control?

Statistics show that about 80% of Americans believe in heaven. A clear majority, to be certain, but reason enough to provide a benefit allowing employees to connect to the afterlife?