The best way to learn is to check out how others have been successful. A recent report by the CEO Council on Health and Innovation gave us a sneak peek into the wellness programs of some of the top U.S. companies. Here are five ways these big-name companies promote workplace health.
Stress Management Programs
Aetna, an age-old leading insurance company, has begun two stress-relief programs, Mindfulness and Work and Viniyoga. The first, developed by eMindful, teaches short mindfulness practices. The 5-15 minute online courses focus on mental awareness, breathing techniques and emotion management.
Similarly, Aetna offers a ten-week yoga-based program to aid with stress management. This program’s live weekly classes and handouts introduce physical yoga postures, breathing techniques, guided relaxation and coping strategies. Both Aetna programs are designed to decrease stress and increase productivity.
Teamwork Programs
Management advisee company, McKinsey & Company has implemented a program call “The Way We Work.” It’s a team-based program that consists of several phases:
- Team Learning: This first step is to help members of the team get to know each other by identifying professional and lifestyle goals. Here, team members establish any time constraints that might affect the project.
- Team Norms: Next, the team members agree on guidelines to determine how they will work together. Members hold each other accountable to adhere to these guidelines throughout their interactions.
- Team Talks: Finally, the team holds occasional 30-45 minute discussions to ensure positive dynamics and effective work.
McKinsey and Company’s teamwork programs promote a positive environment, healthy interactions and recognition of an ideal work-life balance.
Innovative Ideas
Branding powerhouse, Coca-Cola, has turned to innovative strategies to promote workplace wellness. The first strategy, “Fit Mob,” is a spontaneous group outburst of physical activity. The mobs are initiated by last-minute text message invitation to join the 10-15 minute exercise session (i.e. Zumba, Tai Chi, etc).
Coca-Cola also recognizes the role music can play on individual health. The “Coke Music Movement” is designed as a casual networking opportunity with live music, usually performed by Coca-Cola employees.
Finally, the company has implemented the “Walk with a Leader” program. The weekly lunchtime walk provides the opportunity for employees to interact with company leaders. They do so while enjoying physical activity outside of the workplace environment. All of Coca-Cola’s workplace wellness innovations provide fun, easy-going environments to take a break from the work and be healthy.
Financial Wellness
Part of being healthy includes overall financial stability. Coca-Cola and McKinsey and Company provide their employees with similar financial wellness programs. The programs include free financial education and planning services. These great services allow employees to get the most of their healthcare coverage.
Preventative Care
Finally, big-name companies have implemented programs to aid with preventative care for their employees. Preventing illness in the workplace provides opportunities for more productive work. Many companies provide free preventative care to their employees in the form of biometric screenings.
One of our large tech clients took these screenings to the next level. Rather than simply presenting employees with their biometric numbers. The company scheduled fifteen-minute, one-on-one health education sessions on site. This allowed the employees to get more out of the screening, and learn how to make steps in the right direction.
It’s always fun to take a peek at what other companies are doing to promote corporate wellness. Take these five employee wellness programs and merge them into your company culture for healthier employees.
What are some other successful programs you’ve implemented at your company? Comment below!
