Like any initiative in business, dedicated resources are important for success. Wellness is no different.
In many cases, the responsibility of wellness tends to fall under the auspice of the HR department. After all, wellness is about the employees and is often considered part of the benefits package.
At Johnston Group, our wellness program is headed by two members of management who, along with the Wellness Committee, facilitate all wellness activities. They are the line of communication between the committee and the executive team.
This is key to the success of our program. They are responsible for engaging a Wellness Committee that has been charged with not just implementing activities, but in mapping the programs objectives and strategies. They ensure an open dialogue so that the goals of the company are respected while the needs of the employees are met.
Since we are a somewhat larger business, we have enough employees to create subcommittees that address specific elements of wellness. We focus on four areas:
Emotional wellness addressing mental and emotional wellbeing
Physical wellness encouraging healthy habits in eating, sleeping and moving
Development providing opportunities to improve personal and professional skills
Community engaging employees in supporting our community and local charities
These sub-committees meet independently to discuss the activities in their respective scopes. Representatives of all committees also meet regularly to ensure continuity of the goals, forming the overarching Wellness Committee.
It hasnt been without its bumpy spots, but what weve seen so far is communication is the key to success. Lack of communication almost always leads to problems. Setting and communicating the goals of the Wellness Committee and assigning clear tasks are important to the process.
If your wellness program is being driven by a committee, make sure they have access to the decision makers and that all lines of communication are active to keep that ship on course and in smooth waters.
