Research indicates only 53% of employers believe employees understand their benefits.
- Hybrid working complicates communication, with 62% of employers finding it challenging.
- 64% of employers struggle to tailor messages to a diverse workforce.
- Employers increase communication frequency to adapt, with 76% doing so.
- Digital platforms are increasingly utilised, with 75% focusing on digital communication.
A recent study by Towergate Employee Benefits highlights a concerning trend: only 53% of employers are confident that their employees understand the array of benefits available to them. This evidences a disconnect between the offerings and employee awareness, potentially leading to underutilisation of valuable benefits.
With the rise of hybrid working patterns, the challenge of effectively communicating these benefits has intensified. The findings show that 62% of employers find it more difficult to ensure that employees, who may be working remotely or in a varied schedule, are fully informed about the support available.
Complicating matters further, 64% of employers express difficulty in making communications relevant to a diverse workforce. The struggle to tailor messages to different demographic groups within the organisation can lead to ineffective dissemination of crucial information regarding health and wellbeing benefits.
Despite these challenges, employers are responding by increasing the frequency of their communications. Some 76% have adapted by communicating health and wellbeing support more regularly, demonstrating a shift in strategy to ensure employees are better informed.
Digital platforms have become pivotal in overcoming these communication hurdles, with 75% of employers now concentrating on digital health and wellbeing communications. This includes utilising apps and digital platforms that centralise the benefits information, making it more accessible and engaging for employees.
Debra Clark from Towergate Employee Benefits points out that without effective communication, the value of benefits is lost. Employers must leverage various communication methods to maximise the visibility and utility of their wellbeing programmes. This variety ranges from simple emails to comprehensive digital platforms where employees can access all relevant information easily.
Employers must enhance communication strategies to bridge the gap between benefits offered and employee awareness.
