Programs That Increase Employee Productivity?

Kennedy Publications, Recruiting Trends 7/31/08

When asked to name the one benefit program that would make employees more productive on the job, 63% of survey respondents cite "flexible work schedule,” followed by 10% who claim "enhanced health and wellness program." The poll, conducted by LifeCare®, Inc., a specialist in the work/life industry, further reveals that 8% of respondents would welcome enhanced child or elder care assistance, 7% would chose a stress management program, and 6% - a program that deals with time management. "Clearly, flexible work schedules are attractive to far more people than Gen Y-ers alone," says LifeCare CEO, Peter G. Burki. "They're a great attraction and retention benefit because they enable people of all ages to take care of important obligations outside of their jobs – caring for a spouse or older loved one, taking care of their children or addressing their own health and fitness needs." However, Burki notes, that flexible schedules do not always work for every organization due to the nature of their business. "Enhanced wellness programs, enhanced child and elder care programs and stress management programs all offer employers a win-win proposition," adds Burki. "They not only help employees become more focused and productive on the job but they also reduce an organization's medical expenses and other productivity losses related to these issues. They're the kind of benefits that end up paying for themselves in the long run."