A third want more communications on employee benefits

Paul Avis

A third (34%) of respondents want their employer to communicate more about the employee benefits and perks available at their organisation, according to research by group risk insurance provider Canada Life Group Insurance.

In a survey of 1,001 full and part-time employees, Canada Life also found that 20% received information about their benefits and perks when they first joined their organisation, but have not received any communications since then. This compares to 34% who believe that their employer clearly communicates the benefits and rewards they have available.

More than one in 10 (16%) respondents do not know who they should ask about available employee benefits and perks, while 9% do not know which, if any, benefits are even offered.

More than half (56%) of respondents prefer to receive information on workplace benefits via email, although 29% like to have face-to-face interactions and 26% want to access information using an intranet hub.

Paul Avis (pictured), marketing director at Canada Life Group Insurance, said: “Employers should re-evaluate their communication methods and learn what works for their employees. Our research suggests a renewed focus on email updates, face-to-face communications or an internal intranet system is a good place to start to fully articulate the availability of workplace benefits and give regular updates. This will ensure that all staff members understand which perks are available to them and will ultimately improve their perception of their employer.

“Advisers also have a role to play in arming employers with the information and tools necessary to effectively promote benefits within the workplace, ideally working in close partnership with the insurance provider.”