When it comes to advising our clients on manufacturing matters , we ’ re all in .
18 MiMfg Magazine May 2017
Valuable Benefits in Manufacturing
By Karen Barnes • Hylant
Employee benefits have always been used for recruiting and retaining talent but this is more difficult than ever . Are your benefits differentiating you from other employers ? Are you meeting the needs of your diverse workforce ? Consider these three areas in which you could enhance your benefit package and set yourself apart from other employers .
Engagement
People want to feel like they belong in your company and are part of something bigger than themselves . It isn ’ t just about a pay check anymore . Think of ways you can build a connection for your employees to each other as well as to your community .
• Wellness programs – Use a wellness program to engage people in activities both during and after work . Basketball , walking / running clubs , even Euchre tournaments .
• Volunteerism – Provide time off to volunteer at a charity of their choice or create opportunities for them to jointly volunteer for a companysupported charity . Bring a group to work on a Habitat home or walk for the March of Dimes .
When it comes to advising our clients on manufacturing matters , we ’ re all in .
“
Flexibility
The best way to meet a variety of needs is to offer flexibility and choice . One size does not fit all .
• Flexible work schedules / time – It ’ s great if you can provide a few
A comprehensive benefit package is expected and is no longer a differentiator . Offer diverse benefits to make sure you are providing value to all of your employees ”.
more paid days off as that is a great differentiator . If you can ’ t , consider providing more time off without pay or even flexible scheduling . Don ’ t think flex scheduling will work in your environment ? Seek out manufacturers who have already done it successfully .
• Choice – Offer two or three different medical plans to meet the level of coverage desired by employees in stages of life . Offer two dental plans , one with orthodontic coverage and
At Clark Hill , we understand industry-critical issues and help manufacturing clients successfully work through a myriad of challenges . Our proven experience and responsiveness help manufacturers keep their focus on their core business . With attorneys and professionals who have led manufacturing and engineering businesses , Clark Hill is a vital partner for manufacturing clients in : one without . Not everyone needs it !
• Voluntary benefits – Consider offering an array of voluntary benefits . Having a broad selection allows people to choose what meets their needs . Voluntary benefits can really supplement your core benefits nicely by closing some gaps in coverage .
Onsite Services / Convenience
With demanding work schedules , it is difficult to balance work and home life . Provide access to services that make life a little easier for your employees .
• Convenient / Onsite health services – even some smaller to mid-size employers can offer onsite health clinics to provide services a couple of days per week . Offering on-site services such as a gym , walking path , health coaches or organized activities can help make it easier for employees to stay healthy .
• Food services – Everyone has to eat ! Provide a snack cart or a food truck onsite periodically . Negotiate discounts on local food places for your employees so they can grab food with their families after work .
• Out of the box – The sky is the limit . Onsite barber services once per month . Shopping assistance around Christmas time . Cards and flowers they can buy on Valentine ’ s Day . Better yet , ask your employees for some ideas !
A comprehensive benefit package is expected and is no longer a differentiator . Offer diverse benefits to make sure you are providing value to all of your employees . 6
Karen Barnes is a Client Executive with Hylant . She can be reached at karen . barnes @ hylant . com or 616-855-7928 .
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