Leadership Voices archives

The Alight Employee Mindset Study has been taking the pulse of the U.S. workforce for 15 years. During that time, we’ve witnessed a dramatic evolution in employee expectations and how employers are responding to those needs. So much has changed since 2010, but issues like employee wellbeing and worries over healthcare costs and financial health remain at the top of the list.

More recent developments, like the transformative power of AI and the increasing role of leaves of absence, are creating new challenges and opportunities, as is the first generation of true tech natives, Gen Z. Across the board, employers are finding the answer to these challenges and more lies in a high-tech, human touch strategy that delivers a personalized experience for a true benefits advantage.

The 21^st century workforce is representative of the communities in which we live, work and play. Their needs and expectations are just as varied as their backgrounds and skill sets. Employers have much to gain by cultivating an environment where each individual is valued for the unique talents and experiences they bring to the organization. At the same time, the organization should adopt a personalized high-tech, high-touch approach to ensuring each employee has access to the benefits they need and the guidance and support to use them to their full advantage.

Today’s employees expect their employer to provide a full suite of wellbeing benefits that support their mind, body, wallet and life. But while employers are stepping up and investing heavily in their workforce, they are not achieving the awareness, utilization or appreciation they anticipated.

A data-driven, tech-enabled benefits model — paired with guidance, empathy and high-touch support delivered by highly trained consultants — is key to transforming a necessary expense into a game-changing differentiator and gaining a true benefits advantage.

Wellbeing is a crucial component of the employee experience, yet utilization of wellbeing programs remains alarmingly low. As organizations seek to reap the desired return on their wellbeing investments, they are increasingly leveraging the power of AI to deliver timely, personalized recommendations and resources in the moments that matter, enabling their people to achieve optimum wellbeing and providing a more positive employee experience that increases productivity and leads to organization ROI.

Employees are complex human beings, each with their own joys, challenges and needs. When an employee feels their employer supports their whole self – their health, wealth and wellbeing – it empowers them to live their best lives at work and at home. By putting people first, organizations demonstrate care and compassion, create an environment of trust and ultimately drive business success.

We are witnessing a paradigm shift in the employer-employee relationship. Employees are a company’s largest asset, responsibility and opportunity. The shift from shareholder to stakeholder capitalism means making a place for employees at the table.