The competitive recruitment landscape necessitates a focus on comprehensive health and wellbeing support from employers.
- A significant proportion of employers increased their workforce last year, and many plan to do so again this year.
- Wellbeing support is a crucial element that can differentiate employers in a crowded market.
- Full wellbeing programmes must address physical, mental, social, and financial health.
- Adaptation to post-pandemic expectations emphasises the need for broader and targeted employee support.
Research from Towergate Health & Protection highlights a pronounced trend in workforce expansion, with 59% of employers augmenting their employee numbers in the past year and 56% planning further increases. Notably, 71% of medium and large organisations reported growth last year, signalling a competitive recruitment atmosphere.
With such heightened competition, offering robust health and wellbeing support becomes vital for attracting new talent and retaining existing employees. Debra Clark of Towergate Health & Protection underscores the importance of moving beyond the traditional notion of ‘benefits’ to a more holistic approach to employee support.
A comprehensive wellbeing support system should integrate all four pillars of health: physical, mental, social, and financial. Traditional packages that focus solely on salary and limited healthcare benefits are insufficient in today’s job market.
Post-pandemic, there is an increased emphasis on health and wellbeing support. Potential employees have become more discerning regarding the employment packages they consider, expecting more inclusive and sophisticated support offerings.
Employers are urged to think broadly and creatively about the wellbeing support provided, taking into account diverse needs such as gender-specific support, neurodiversity, and eldercare. This approach ensures that wellbeing initiatives evolve alongside the demographics of the workforce.
Clark emphasises that adapting wellbeing support to meet the needs of a growing and diverse workforce is crucial. Employers must strategically communicate these benefits, ensuring employees receive pertinent information effectively, possibly through digital platforms.
A strategic focus on comprehensive wellbeing support is crucial for employers to distinguish themselves and attract high-calibre talent in a competitive job market.
