What are the key ingredients of a successful benefits program? When studying the program's 100 winners, we've noted that they share these characteristics:

Thorough education. Even the best benefits programs won't be valued by employees if they don't understand the benefits. The best companies provide education year-round and in a variety of ways—and they often include employees' spouses or partners in the education process.
Two-way communication. The best employers don't just talk to their employees about benefits. They also listen. This helps employers perfect their benefits, address confusion and boost morale.
A focus on the business strategy behind benefits. Those picked as the best know that top-tier employee benefits pay off for the business as well as for the employees. The payoff comes in the form of decreased turnover, improved productivity, great customer service and more. In fact the 2012 winners' average annual voluntary turnover rate is 9.3 percent compared to the national average of 21.2 percent.

Over time, the winning organizations' benefits strategies and tactics have continued to evolve and improve. Consider these top trends:

A shift from "do-it-for-them" to "do-it-with-them." Benefits programs have shifted from the employer making most decisions to employees facing more choices and personal financial responsibility. These winning firms continue to share significantly in the cost while working with employees to help them make the best use of their benefits.
From cookie cutter to customized. Today, more of these winning companies customize their benefits programs for specific employee needs and demographics.
Security is now financial and physical. Our winners use a holistic approach to financial security with an increased focus on wellness. This helps to lower healthcare costs for both the companies and the employees.

Instant Insights /

What can you learn from the country's best benefits programs?

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