Improve Morale & Organizational Reputation

Workplace health programs can improve morale and organization reputation.1-4

A company that cares about its employees’ health and well-being may also have a competitive advantage.

  • Workplace health programs that are varied and innovative may be a successful marketing tool when recruiting new employees
  • Workplace health programs that are created with the needs, risks, and interests of employees can improve the retention of current workers and create long-term employee loyalty to the organization
  • For business owners, workplace health and safety programs send the message that they care about employees and are serious about safeguarding or improving their health
  • Workplace health programs also provide indirect benefits to the employee. Empowering individuals to participate in health programs at work gives them the opportunity to incorporate healthy behaviors into their daily routine, despite busy schedules and work/family demands

Creating a culture of health, where health promotion is a valued part of the normal work day environment, will address employers’ health concerns for their employees and enhance their competitiveness by engaging employees, and presenting the company as an attractive place to work.

Conversely, employee morale may be negatively impacted, if workplace health programs are designed and implemented without respect to employee needs and interests; employee input into development process; or respect for individual privacy. Such a situation can compromise trust between the employer and employee and risk reducing morale and organizational reputation.

References

1.  Linnan L, Weiner B, Graham A, Emmons K. Manager beliefs regarding worksite health promotion: findings from the Working Healthy Project 2. Am J Health Promot. 2007 Jul-Aug;21(6):521-8.

2.  Danis M, Lovett F, Sabik L, Adikes K, Cheng G, Aomo T. Low-income employees’ choices regarding employment benefits aimed at improving the socioeconomic determinants of health. Am J Public Health. 2007 Sep;97(9):1650-7. Epub 2007 Jul 31.

3.  Davis L, Loyo K, Glowka A, Schwertfeger R, Danielson L, Brea C, et al. A comprehensive worksite wellness program in Austin, Texas: partnership between Steps to a Healthier Austin and Capital Metropolitan Transportation Authority. Prev Chronic Dis 2009;6(2). https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2009/apr/08_0206.htm. Accessed [April 22, 2016].

4.  Lowe GS, Schellenberg G, Shannon HS. Correlates of employees’ perceptions of a healthy work environment. Am J Health Promot. 2003 Jul-Aug;17(6):390-9.