Whether you’re looking to save money on health insurance premiums, reduce absenteeism or simply improve your team’s work performance, employee wellness coaching can make an impact. But before you start pitching a program, it’s important to understand how the wellness industry works and what you need to succeed.
The primary purpose of a corporate wellness coach is to help employees improve and maintain their health and well-being. Unlike a nutritionist or an athletic coach, who might assign someone to a specific diet or workout plan, wellness coaches are more about inspiring and advising employees how they can make better choices that align with their lifestyles.
There are many different types of wellness coaches, from fitness professionals to nutritionists to behavior change specialists. Some coaches offer group programs like “healthy cooking classes” or hands on wellness workshops, while others focus on one-on-one coaching and use techniques ranging from keeping a journal to mindfulness training. The best coaches are able to quickly assess the needs of their clients and design a personalized program that is uniquely tailored to them.
In addition to helping employees stay healthy, a wellness program can also help them feel more satisfied at work. Companies have found that when employees are happier, they are more productive. This is why so many are embracing the idea of workplace wellness, especially as the economy continues to thrive and employee benefits have remained stagnant.
Investing in the wellbeing of your employees is a great way to boost morale, increase productivity and attract top talent. To get started, consider some of these employee wellness strategies that have proven to be successful in the past.
Stress Management
Stress can be a big issue for employees, both on a personal and professional level. In fact, studies show that the number one reason why employees quit their jobs is due to financial stress. To combat this, consider offering a flexible work schedule or other stress-relieving benefits such as free yoga classes, meditation and tai chi.
Another way to boost employee wellness is to promote volunteerism. This can be done through a company-wide initiative or by providing funding to allow teams to work on a project of their choosing. The IT giant Cisco, for example, allows each team to spend time out of the office and has a “fun fund” that is earmarked for parties, outings and other activities to celebrate success and positive milestones.
If you are ready to join the ranks of those who provide workplace wellness coaching, there are many resources available online to help you. Getting educated or certified as a wellness coach can help you build a strong, consistent client base and grow your business. And once you’ve made the investment in your own personal and professional development, the sky is the limit when it comes to creating a successful career in this growing field. Good luck!