Whether it’s expediting the candidate experience, enriching employee onboarding, streamlining Open Enrollment or tackling a one-off issue, it’s generally assumed that employees can look to their employers for insights, information and timely solutions. In fact, 67% of employees believe their employer offers the most effective response to the Coronavirus pandemic.

 

And, while it’s more critical than ever for employers to communicate through challenges their workers are facing, it’s equally important to admit the unknowns. If you don’t have all the answers, it’s okay to say so. Be as transparent as possible about the ways your organization is working to get answers, respond to obstacles and uncertainty in a timely manner, and don’t be afraid to overcommunicate as needed.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Open Enrollment, communication strategy, 2020, COVID

As employers begin planning for this year’s Open Enrollment season, many are facing the newfound challenge of educating employees about benefits selections from afar. COVID-19 has ushered in a whole new world of work for companies around the globe, and clear and consistent employee communications are essential to keeping workforces connected and informed.

With that said, Open Enrollment is still an opportune time to engage your employees and update them on benefits they can use to navigate these unprecedented times. It’s also a proactive way to highlight offerings that enhance employee wellness — even (and especially) if they’re working from home.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Open Enrollment, communication strategy, 2020, COVID

The Situation: How COVID is Changing the Way We Work

The unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 heightened the need for clear and compassionate employee communications. As workers quickly transitioned from a "typical" workday to some juggling remote work and wondering what returning to work would be like in the "new normal", many have turned to their employers for clarity about what comes next.

When COVID-19 began its rapid spread, it brought with it a wave of uncertainty and unexpected changes for employees. Our client, a leading global specialty chemical manufacturing and performance materials company, recognized the toll the pandemic could take on its employees' well-being right away. During this time, they observed a noticeable decline in Employee Assistance Program (EAP) activities in Q1 (down 33% from Q1 2019) and participation in their Well-Being program was pacing behind 2019 metrics.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Open Enrollment, communication strategy, digital, 2020, COVID

If you are an HR professional or a benefits specialist, capturing employees' attention can be a challenge even in optimal Open Enrollment scenarios. This season, the unprecedented circumstances surrounding COVID-19 are adding an extra layer of complexity and the need for technological tools and communications that can reach an expanding remote workforce.

As employees grapple with a shifting sense of “normal,” many are working from home with additional responsibilities— from homeschooling their children to helping high-risk family members stay safe in isolation. Not to mention the stresses that can stem from job security and an uncertain global future.

The Pressing Need for Virtual Enrollment

From healthcare coverage to contribution elections, Employee Assistance Programs and other ancillary benefits, getting employees to make timely benefits decisions will be more crucial than ever in a COVID-19 world. But how will you provide benefits information to employees who might be working remotely or facing imminent changes to their employment status?

This season, think about offering a virtual Open Enrollment, so you can capture and keep employees' attention, regardless of where they are. If you have an existing benefits website or intranet, you’re already a step in the right direction!

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Open Enrollment, communication strategy, digital, 2020, COVID

Figuring out how to get your employees excited about a wellness campaign can feel like a daunting task. However, with the right communication support and presentation, you will be able to spark interest and reach your goals.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, effectiveness, Wellness Campaign, 2018

"Our employees just don’t understand the value of their benefits," this is a common complaint from employers and those tagged with managing benefits. This is scary since benefits make up approximately 30% - 40% of an average employee’s compensation. 

There are many great ways to promote your benefits program and increase employee engagement. But, total compensation, or total reward statements may be at the top of our list when it comes to educating employees about their  compensation above and beyond their base salary.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Employee Marketing, total compensation, total rewards, benefit package

We’ve all heard it said that good communication is the key to a successful marriage. While we’re not relationship experts, we do know a thing or two about effective communication.

Tags: Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, Employee Marketing, mergers and acquisitions

Organizations spend a lot of effort and revenue on marketing to consumers and shareholders, and on developing brand recognition.

Tags: Employee Communications, HR Communications, Employee Engagement, internal communications, Marketing Mindset, Marketing, Employee Marketing

A smart goal for a successful new year!

Tags: Spitfire Communications, Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, measurement, effectiveness, communication strategy

The power of using effective visuals in employee communication.

Tags: What's Trending, Employee Communications, Employee Engagement, infographics