Employee Benefits/Towers Watson Flexible Benefits Supplement 2011

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Editor’s comment

Any employer that takes the time to implement a flexible benefits scheme in its organisation will inevitably want to ensure this is valued by staff. In the continuing difficult economic environment, obtaining a strong return on investment, and demonstrating a scheme’s worth, therefore, continue to be key challenges for employers.

There are a number of steps employers can take to help achieve these goals. Profiling the workforce before introducing a scheme can help to identify the most appropriate benefits and communication methods.

Ensuring that a scheme is perceived as relevant by employees will increase the likelihood that they will make use of and value it. Banking group BNP Paribas did just that, despite introducing its flexible benefits scheme in the midst of the financial crisis.

Making use of fun or more unusual communication methods to grab employees’ attention can also help to raise their awareness of the scheme and the benefits on offer. Newer options to consider in this field are being driven by
technological and digital advances, such as quick response codes and online social media sites.

It will be interesting to see how this trend develops in the coming year, as more technological initiatives are adapted for use in the workplace and benefits arena.

Debbie Lovewell, Deputy editor