OE communications: 5 tips
October 14, 2015 12:19 PM
A stellar communication strategy not only increases participation during open enrollment, but may even boost job satisfaction and increase employee loyalty. Open enrollment is stressful for benefits pros but it doesnt have to be. Jay Starkman, CEO of Engage PEO and Dorothy Miraglia-King, executive vice president of Engage Insurance, offer these five tips to help employers better communicate during open enrollment.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
1. Stay on message
Communicate early and often with on-point messages. Ensure the most important information is reinforced multiple times. And while it might be too late this year, bear in mind to keep the lines of communications open year-round instead of just prior to open enrollment.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
2. Explain the value
Communicate the value of the benefits and services offered, and how they can improve your employees quality of life and work-life balance.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
3. Make the communication meaningful
Keep in mind your workforce and how to best get your message across. Communicate a plans features by focusing on critical details such as deductibles, coinsurance or co-payments. Using visuals with explanatory text can help.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
4. Dont overestimate technology
While a majority of employees may prefer electronic communication, dont let that be the only means to select benefits. Additionally, make sure employees can have access both at work and at home, as most employees prefer to discuss choices with a spouse or partner before making final decisions.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
5. Avoid too much information
Information overload is a real thing. Give ample time for employees to digest and understand information, and be sure to be on hand and/or have easy-to-understand guides employees can turn to with questions.
[Image credit: Fotolia]
[Image credit: Fotolia]
