How to Encourage Employees to Engage in Corporate Wellness Programs

Companies in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Middle East are now starting to appreciate the benefits of corporate wellness programs. While there are still some who rely strictly on return-of-investment values to determine whether their company needs a wellness program or not, it is good to know that a lot of businesses are realizing the importance of their employees’ health and wellbeing.

However, corporate wellness does not just stop at enrolling a fitness program. The most crucial part is in its implementation. No matter how well-designed an employee fitness program may be, it would still be worthless if it is not used and followed by its intended audience.

Now that the people have bought into the chosen wellness program’s campaign, it is time to deliver on its promises. How a company follows through its fitness program will determine just how serious it is in investing in its most valuable capital – its employees.

The goal of a company is not to have a corporate wellness programs just for the sake of having one, but to actually have its employees participate and integrate it into their own lifestyles.

So how can companies encourage their employees to engage in corporate wellness programs?

The worst mistake a company can do is to introduce several new things all at once. Start with simple and bite-sized changes at first. Give the employees some time to adjust to the new routine.

Employees will also be more attracted to corporate wellness programs if it is kept inside the workplace. Instead of making them go to the gym, make them exercise within the company grounds instead. If this is not possible, look for creative ways on how to integrate fitness into their work routines, like making them take the stairs instead of using the elevator.

It is also the employer’s responsibility to assess if the program is working or not. Employee surveys and interviews can be very helpful in gathering feedback which can be used to modify and improve the wellness program.

Lastly, corporate wellness programs should be designed for the long term. Constantly adding or varying some elements into the program will keep employees more interested and involved. Progressive programs are recommended, with challenges and routines getting a little more difficult as time goes by.

The beauty of corporate wellness programs lies in its ability to engage employees and influence their habits towards a healthier lifestyle and work habits, while also strengthening camaraderie among fellow employees and cultivating a motivated work environment at the same time.