EFFECTIVE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMMUNICATION & ENGAGEMENT STRATEGIES
Open enrollment is a critical period for both employers and employees. It’s the time when employees make important decisions about their benefits for the upcoming year. Effective communication during this period can significantly impact employee satisfaction and participation rates. Here are some strategies employers can use to ensure a successful open enrollment through diverse communication and engagement methods:
1. EMAIL CAMPAIGNS
Email remains one of the most effective ways to reach employees. Employers can use email campaigns to:
• Provide Detailed Information: Send out links to the digital benefits guide and custom microsite as well as FAQs about the benefits being offered.
• Reminders and Deadlines: Regularly remind employees of key dates and deadlines to ensure they don’t miss out.
• Personalized Messages: Tailor emails to different employee groups based on their specific needs and preferences (e.g., for physically demanding roles like law enforcement, firefighters, and PE teachers, highlight accident insurance for added protection.)
2. INTRANET AND EMPLOYEE PORTALS
Utilize the organization’s intranet or employee portal to:
• Centralize Information: Create a dedicated section for open enrollment with all necessary documents, custom benefits explainer videos, and other relevant links.
• Interactive Tools: Offer calculators and comparison tools to help employees understand their options better.
• Forums and Q&A Sections: Allow employees to ask questions and get answers in real-time.
3. WEBINARS AND VIRTUAL MEETINGS
With the rise of remote work, virtual meetings and webinars have become essential. They can be used to:
• Host Live Sessions: Conduct live webinars where employees can learn about their benefits and ask questions.
• Record Sessions: Make recordings available for those who cannot attend live sessions.
• Create Interactive Elements: Use polls and Q&A features to engage employees during the sessions.
4. PRINTED MATERIALS
Despite the digital age, printed materials still hold value. Employers can distribute:
• Benefits Guides and Flyers: Provide easy-to-understand summaries of benefits and reminders on important dates or critical changes.
• Posters or postcards: Place posters or postcards in common areas to remind employees about open enrollment and highlight important information.
5. ONE-ON-ONE MEETINGS
Personalized communication can make a big difference. Employers can:
• Schedule Individual Sessions: Offer one-on-one meetings with Benefits Representatives to discuss benefits.
• Tailored Advice: Provide personalized advice based on the employee’s specific situation.
• Follow Up: Ensure there is a follow-up process to address any lingering questions or concerns.
6. SOCIAL MEDIA AND INTERNAL COMMUNICATION PLATFORMS
Use social media and internal platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams to:
• Share Updates: Post regular updates and reminders about open enrollment.
• Engage Employees: Create polls, quizzes, and other interactive content to keep employees engaged.
• Provide Support: Use these platforms to answer questions and provide support in real-time.
TIPS FOR ENGAGING EMPLOYEES
To maximize engagement during open enrollment, consider these additional tips:
1. Gamify the Process: Introduce elements of gamification, such as quizzes or challenges, with rewards for participation. This can make the process more enjoyable and encourage employees to engage.
2. Use Testimonials: Share stories and testimonials from employees who have benefited from the available plans. Real-life examples can help others see the value in the benefits being offered.
3. Offer Incentives: Provide incentives for early enrollment or participation in informational sessions. This could be in the form of gift cards, extra time off, or other perks.
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT STATISTICS
4. Create a Countdown: Use a countdown to the enrollment deadline to create a sense of urgency. This can be displayed on the intranet, in emails, and on posters around the workplace.
5. Leverage Peer Influence: Encourage managers and team leaders to discuss benefits with their teams. Peer influence can be a powerful motivator for participation.
6. Simplify the Information: Break down complex information into simple, digestible pieces. Use infographics, short videos, and bullet points to make the information more accessible.
7. Provide Continuous Support: Ensure that employees have access to support throughout the enrollment period. This could be through dedicated helplines, chat support, or regular Q&A sessions.
Understanding the current state of employee engagement can help tailor communication strategies effectively. Here are some key statistics:
• Global Engagement Levels: Only 23% of employees globally are actively engaged at work. This highlights the need for improved engagement strategies.
• Disengagement Rates: Approximately 51% of employees are disengaged, with 13% actively disengaged. Disengaged employees can negatively impact productivity and morale.
• Impact on Business Performance: Companies with high employee engagement are 21% more profitable. Engaged employees are more productive, provide better customer service, and are less likely to leave the organization.
• Hybrid and Remote Work: Hybrid and remote employees tend to be more engaged than their on-site counterparts. This suggests that flexible work arrangements can boost engagement.
• Executive Insights: 92% of executives believe that high engagement leads to happier customers. This underscores the importance of employee engagement in overall business success.
Effective communication is key to a successful open enrollment period. By utilizing a mix of traditional and modern communication methods, incorporating strategies to engage employees, and understanding the current state of employee engagement, employers can ensure that all employees are well-informed and able to make the best decisions for their benefits. Remember, the goal is to make the process as smooth and accessible as possible, ultimately leading to higher employee satisfaction and participation rates.
Written by Deja Holley
TRENDING
NEWS
THE AFFORDABLE CARE ACT: 15 YEARS LATER
Created by Andrew Marinelli
0:51 watch
TIPS & TRICKS
GARDENING
TIPS & TRICKS
OUTDOOR PLANTS
• Choose the right plants! Before you grab that tropical flower, inspect your growing area. How much room do you have? How much sun do you get? Is it morning or afternoon sun? Most edible plants like fruits and veggies will need at least 6 hours of sun in order to produce. Do some research – what zone are you in, what plants grow well in your area? For the best chance of success, choose plants that will perform well given your growing specifications.
• Location, Location, Location! Choose the best spot possible for your plants. Determine if you’re going to be planting in the ground or in containers – this can impact which plants you grow and where they need to be located. If you only have a small growing area, consider vertical gardening to get the most out of your space.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just planting your first seed, this article is packed with practical advice for every current and future gardener. From picking the perfect plants for your outdoor oasis to nurturing lush indoor greenery, let’s dig into the essentials that will make your gardening journey both enjoyable and fruitful.
• Have a strong foundation! If you’re gardening in a raised bed, soil layering can help you create a nutrient rich growing medium and potentially help you save some money as compared to filling the entire container with high-quality soil. Start with a thin layer of rocks at the bottom to encourage drainage & add calcium to the soil. Next, add items such as branches, twigs, bark, or newspaper. Then add a filler soil – this should be a cheaper soil or a native soil. You can also add compost, grass clippings, or sphagnum moss to this thick layer. Lastly, add around 6-12 inches of high-quality soil for your final layer.
• Give them a snack! As plants grow, they strip the soil of nutrients. For big, beautiful plants (especially edible plants), be sure to occasionally add those nutrients back. If you’re using a quick-release fertilizer, you can fertilize around once a month while slow-release fertilizers need only be applied once a season. Be sure not to over fertilize however, as that can burn the roots in addition to causing harmful runoff.
INDOOR PLANTS
• Don’t drown your plants! Overwatering is one of the most common causes of indoor plant death. Most plants have variable watering schedules that can change throughout the seasons. Instead of watering at a set time frame, wait until the top half of the soil feels dry before you water to prevent root rot. Try to water the soil directly and avoid watering the leaves & stems to decrease potential disease and sunspots. If you can, try bottom watering your plants to encourage root growth.
• Don’t dry them out! For plants that require humid environments (think pothos and calathea), avoid placing them near air vents as the HVAC can dry them out. Additionally, you can try adding a humidifier or you can simply cluster the plants together which can help reduce moisture loss.
• Evict unwanted guests! Houseplants are often attacked by a variety of pests which can spread quickly from plant to plant. Its best to check your plants often for any type of pest or disease and act quickly. When you bring a new plant home or notice an infected plant, quarantine them away from your other plants for at least 3 weeks. To deal with pests, you can remove them by hand or with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also wash the leaves with warm water, prune away impacted limbs and spray an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the underside of the leaves.
• Keep them healthy! Plant diseases can spread quickly and be difficult to tackle. Cut down on potential diseases by ensuring that your tools and pots are sanitized. Provide your plants with proper air circulation by not overcrowding or overpotting. Keep the leaves dry and remove leaves that show any sign of fungal problems. If a plant is severely diseased, you may have to cut your losses and get rid of the plant before the disease can spread.
Gardening is a rewarding and therapeutic activity that brings beauty and freshness to your surroundings. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your plants, both indoor and outdoor, thrive and flourish.
Written by Rachael Davis
THE CULINARY CHRONICLES
HEALTHY INGREDIENT ALTERNATIVES for a nutritious diet
Incorporating healthier ingredient alternatives into your diet can make a significant difference in your overall health and well-being. Here are some accessible healthy ingredient alternatives that you can easily incorporate into your diet:
FAT FREE MILK
instead of WHOLE MILK
o Switching to fat-free or low-fat milk can reduce your intake of saturated fats while still providing essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D.
o Calories: Fat-free milk has about 90 calories per cup, while whole milk has around 150 calories per cup.
PLAIN GREEK YOGURT
instead of
SOUR CREAM
o Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream. It offers a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor but with fewer calories and more protein. This swap is perfect for topping baked potatoes, adding to soups, or using in dips.
o Calories: Plain Greek yogurt has about 100 calories per 100 grams, while sour cream has approximately 200 calories per 100 grams.
CAULIFLOWER RICE
instead of WHITE RICE
o Cauliflower rice is a low-carb, low-calorie substitute for white rice. Simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains. This versatile alternative can be used in stir-fries, burrito bowls, or as a side dish.
o Calories: Cauliflower rice has about 25 calories per cup, while white rice has around 200 calories per cup.
ZUCCHINI NOODLES instead of PASTA
o Zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a great way to enjoy a pasta-like experience without the extra carbs. Use a spiralizer to create noodle-like strands from zucchini. They can be sautéed or boiled and used to make spaghetti.
o Calories: Plain Greek yogurt has about 100 calories per 100 grams, while sour cream has approximately 200 calories per 100 grams.
LETTUCE WRAPS instead of TORTILLAS
o For a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to tortillas, try using large lettuce leaves as wraps. They are perfect for holding fillings like grilled chicken, veggies, and sauces, providing a fresh and crunchy texture.
o Calories: Lettuce wraps have about 5 calories per large leaf, while tortillas have around 150 calories per tortilla.
EGG WHITES instead of WHOLE EGGS
o Opting for egg whites instead of whole eggs significantly reduces calories and fat while providing 3.6 grams of protein.
o Calories: Egg whites have about 17 calories per large egg, compared to 72 calories per large whole egg.
These swaps are easy to find and can make a big difference in your diet without sacrificing flavor. Give them a try!
Disclaimer: The calorie information provided is approximate and can vary; always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Written by Kaleb Johnson
PGB BLOG ROUNDUP
Welcome to the PGB Blog Round Up! These blogs focus on providing practical tips and resources designed to support benefits personnel at organizations.
EMAIL TEMPLATES TO ENHANCE EMPLOYEE BENEFITS COMMUNICATION
Customizable email templates for organizations to enhance benefits communication, providing benefit descriptions, highlighting important dates, and sharing helpful links with employees. (Contributed by Kaleb Johnson)
5 WAYS TO IMPROVE OPEN ENROLLMENT AT YOUR ORGANIZATION
Practical resources, including PGB-specific tools, to enhance the open enrollment process at an organization, empowering benefits personnel to positively influence open enrollment. (Contributed by Kaleb Johnson)
Whether looking to enhance employee benefits communication or influence benefit enrollment, these blogs offer valuable tools that can be easily implemented. If you know clients who could benefit from these blogs, please feel free to share the links!
PIERCE GROUP PERSPECTIVES PIERCE GROUP PODCAST
PIERCE GROUP PERSPECTIVES: JANNA SMITH, DIRECTOR OF ENROLLMENT & PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
31:36 watch
Hosted by Andrew Marinelli and Kaleb Johnson, Edited by Andrew Marinelli
UPCOMING BIRTHDAYS
Keep an eye out for these special days in Q2 HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
JULY
Wyndham Murray - July 9th
Lisa Bledsoe – July 14th
Justin VanWyck – July 14th
Veronica Lara – July 14th
Gail Tiffany – July 15th
Michael Delahanty – July 18th
AUGUST
Janice Wagstaff – August 3rd
Diane Remes – August 7th
Kristi Brown – August 14th
Tyler Blackwell – August 15th
Karina Branch – August 17th
Sharon Borden – August 20th
Rosia Carranza – August 23rd
Artina McKnight-Coard – August 23rd
Deja Holley – August 27th
Roennia WIlliams – August 29th
SEPTEMBER
Heidi Delozier-Friley – September 2nd
Bekah Downing – September 4th
Kayla Stam – September 7th
Patti Kilpatrick – September 7th
Crystal Kominski – September 22nd
Kady Knight – September 25th
Robin Craver – September 26th
Antonio Dinkens – September 26th
WORK ANNIVERSARIES
WORKAVERSARIES
Thank you for the work you do for PGB and our clients!
QUARTER
3
David Charland - 24 years
Monica Nixon - 17 years
Valeria Favero - 10 years
Shanisse Spencer - 9 years
Patti Kilpatrick - 7 years
Justin VanWyck - 7 years
John Price - 6 years
Regina Bartechko - 5 years
Devin Draman - 5 years
Gray Hooker - 4 years
Cindy Blackley - 3 years
Wes Guzman - 3 years
Nancy Sodano - 3 years
Keishia McLendon - 2 years
Ben Ceja - 2 years
Andrew Marinelli - 2 years
Abbie Whitlock - 2 years
Nancy Truett - 2 years
Olivia Branch - 2 years
Bekah Downing - 2 years
Nina Elghossain - 2 years
Kristi Brown - 2 years
Lynn Conway - 1 years
Kady Knight - 1 years
NEW TEAM MEMBERS
Please join us in extending a very warm welcome to our newest team members - congratulations and welcome! We look forward to working with and getting to know you.
ALEXIS DAVIS
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
KRISTI BROWN
Benefits Counselor
Kristi Brown is a dedicated Benefits Counselor in our Enrollment Department. With over 20 years of experience in the medical insurance industry and tw o years specializing in supplemental benefits, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. Kristi loves the variety her job offers. “Every day is different, never boring,” she says. Her favorite aspect of the job is helping employees make decisions that provide peace of mind, ensuring they and their families are well taken care of. Outside of work, Kristi enjoys traveling and visiting wineries in North Carolina and neighboring states. She also has a passion for home improvement projects and decorating, always finding new ways to enhance her living space. Her ideal day off is a perfect blend of relaxation and enjoyment, starting with gardening in her yard, visiting a local winery, and ending with a nice dinner and laughter with family on the screened porch.
“Kristi is our most recent W2 hire and has poured her heart into this role. She sought this position due to her personal advocacy for a family member and has stopped at nothing to help make every employee feel supported as if they were part of her family. Kristi doesn’t shy away from a challenge and sees obstacles as puzzles she must solve. I admire her commitment and drive in everything she does. She is a great mother, Benefits Counselor, and proud house-pig pet owner!”
Janna Smith Director of Enrollment & Product Development
NICHOLE CAYIA
Human Resources Manager
Nichole Cayia, our Human Resources Manager, began her career in the insurance industry in Upstate New York, including a role where she managed a COBRA administration department following the signing of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) before she transitioned to becoming a HR Generalist. Her passio n for people and numbers shines through in her work, especially when she’s diving into spreadsheets, payroll files, or recruiting top talent. Nichole holds a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Brockport and certifications including SPHR (Senior Profes sional in Human Resources) from HRCI (Human Resources Certification Institute), which validates her strategic HR expertise, and SHRM-SCP (Society for Human Resourc e Management - Senior Certified Professional), which signifies her advanced knowledge and leadership in human resources. Outside of work, Nichole loves spending time outdoors, whether it’s yard work or walking, and organizing and cleaning her home. With her youngest daughter heading to college this year, she’s already planning to turn her room into a spotless sanctuary. On her ideal day off, you’ll find her floating in her pool with a drink and music, enjoying the warm weather.
“Nichole provides invaluable guidance and support across our organization. Her knowledge, along with her fair and unbiased approach as HR Manager, ensures that PGB offers a positive and fun work environment for everyone. Additionally, her hiring skills and practices are crucial in attracting new candidates who value our culture and core values as our team continues to grow.”
WANT TO SPOTLIGHT AN EMPLOYEE?
Leadership members are welcome to nominate managers, and manage rs are encouraged to nominate team members. To submit a nomination, please email mar keting@piercegroupbenefits. com with the following information:
• Nominee’s name and job title
• A 1-2 sentence quote about the nominee’s skills and contribut ions
Raquel Bootes Chief Operating Officer
Q3 IMPORTANT DATES & REMINDERS
Upcoming Holidays:
Interdepartmental Training Dates:
Floating Holidays:
REMINDER
USE THEM OR LOSE THEM
2025 Summer Meeting:
Reminder - We can’t wait to see everyone on July 24th and 25th at the beautiful Grandover Resort in Greensboro, NC! Keep an eye out for more details the week of.
DEPARTMENT CONTACT DIRECTORY
DEPARTMENT EMAIL
Data Management enrollmentdept@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Data Management enrollments@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Data Management edi@piercegroupbenefits. com
Data Management benselect@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Data Management 365support@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Data Management dm-managers@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Business Development partnership@ piercegroupbenefits.com
Email copied on PEM recaps and account logistic emails.
Used to track all communications regarding enrollments within Gemini. CC this email when corresponding with a tech or manager on any active enrollment.
Used to track all communication with carriers about EDI feeds within Gemini. Used to report issues with feeds.
Used to track client support issues related to BenSelect cases within Gemini. CC this email when corresponding with a PM.
Used to track client support issues related to Navigator cases within Gemini. CC this email when corresponding with a PM.
Monitoring inbox for DM managers. CC for notifications. Email manager directly if response is required.
Used on conference materials for potential clients to inquire about our services.
Used by clients, employees, and internal departments to inquire and communicate with members of the Employee Services Department.
Used by clients and internal departments relating to basic group term life.
Used to inquire and communicate with the HR team.
Used by external candidates to send job inquires to our HR team.
Used to inquire and communicate with or submit requests to the Benefit Analyst Department.
Generic marketing requests, specific marketing collateral requests, and client event packing requests.
Enrollment transitions and updates, benefit guide requests, client microsite updates, and all things pertaining to the enrollment lifecycle.
To inquire and communicate with Client Services Management and Administration.
Used for issues with agency specifc applications only, such as Gemini, Last Pass, and Text Expander.
To be used to submit credit card receipts as well as inquire and communicate with the Finance team.
To submit and notify the Finance team of invoices that need to be paid by PGB.
“PERFECTION IS NOT ATTAINABLE. BUT IF WE CHASE PERFECTION, WE CAN CATCH EXCELLENCE.”
- VINCE LOMBARDI
DAVID LINARES
DESIGNED & FORMATTED BY: KALEB JOHNSON EDITORIAL REVIEW:
