How does Nu Skin keep so many of its employees interested their
health? By focusing on their personal income statements. Health
insurance discounts go to employees who satisfactorily complete the
wellness program, and a "points" scheme lets employees earn up to
two extra vacation days yearly. "Incentives definitely help keep
employees focused," says Hunt.
Other companies foster participation using the Internet, says Craig
Froude, CEO of WellMed, a
Portland,
Oregon developer of online
corporate wellness programs. In the past, employees were handed
customized "healthy living prescriptions" but found them easy to
ignore. No more. Now, employees get regular e-mails and perhaps a
customized fitness Web page. "The system can reach out to touch
you," says Froude. "We can cost-effectively offer personalized
communication."
These tools are important, because a little encouragement can go a
long way toward keeping an individual on a healthy track. "The
Internet can become your personal wellness coach," says Jim Grube,
CEO of Baltimore-based The Teamwork Company, an online fitness
service. "We keep you focused, and, using online tools, we can also
create a sense of teamwork, where you're working with others toward
the same health goals. That's making the experience more fun."
Add this up and here's the big message about wellness: "Suddenly,
it's undeniable that more companies are seeing health as a
corporate asset," says Sean Sullivan, CEO of the Institute for
Health and Productivity Management in
Scottsdale,
Arizona. "It's
become good business to help your employees get and stay
healthier."
surfing for wellness
information abounds for any organization interested in setting up
wellness programs. here are a range of web sites filled with useful
facts and advice.