How to Ensure Employee Benefits Are Actually Used

Employee benefits are a key part of any workplace wellbeing strategy. Yet, many companies invest in benefits that go unused, leaving both employees and employers frustrated. If benefits are meant to support employees, why do they often sit untouched? More importantly, how can businesses ensure that their workforce actually makes use of what’s available?

Choose Benefits That Address Real Needs

One of the biggest reasons benefits go unused is that they don’t align with what employees truly need. To get this right:

- Conduct employee surveys or focus groups to understand what matters most to your team.

- Analyse absence data and engagement trends to identify key wellbeing challenges.

- Offer a mix of benefits that support mental, physical, and financial wellbeing rather than just ticking a box.

Communicate Clearly and Consistently

Even the best benefits package won’t be used if employees don’t know about it. Effective communication is crucial:

- Make benefits a key part of onboarding so new hires understand what’s available from day one.

- Use multiple channels, emails, Slack, posters, and team meetings - to remind employees about their benefits.

- Highlight real-life examples of employees using benefits successfully to encourage uptake.

Make Access Simple

If using a benefit requires jumping through hoops, employees won’t bother. Remove barriers by:

- Offering one centralised platform where employees can easily see and access benefits.

- Reducing paperwork and complicated sign-up processes.

- Ensuring benefits are accessible via mobile apps for on-the-go use.

Integrate Benefits into Company Culture

When benefits feel like an add-on rather than a core part of the workplace, they’re less likely to be used. To integrate benefits into your company culture:

- Have leaders and managers actively promote and use benefits themselves.

- Incorporate wellbeing check-ins into one-to-one meetings.

- Recognise and reward employees who engage with wellbeing initiatives.

Regularly Review and Adapt

A static benefits package quickly becomes outdated. Ensure benefits stay relevant by:

- Tracking usage data and gathering feedback to see what’s working and what isn’t.

- Adapting benefits based on evolving workforce needs.

- Partnering with experts to ensure the program remains effective.

The ReechUs Approach

At ReechUs, we understand that offering benefits is only half the battle, ensuring employees actually use them is what makes the difference. Our wellbeing support program provides personalised, easily accessible services that employees engage with. From therapy and fitness to financial coaching, we make sure support is available when and how employees need it.

If you want to implement a benefits strategy that truly works, let’s talk. Get in touch today and see how we can help boost engagement, retention, and overall workplace wellbeing.

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