Research shows that employers can build trust by fostering a supportive culture and promoting positive benefits experiences, which includes providing employees with opportunities to give feedback and the right tools to choose and use their benefits effectively.

"Our research continues to validate that employers who demonstrate care for their employees see improved workplace health and outcomes," said Todd Katz, head of group benefits for MetLife. “What we’ve newly uncovered this year, given macro challenges, is an opportunity to fortify care by fostering trust. Employers that focus on prioritizing benefit experiences and culture can effectively build high-trust, high-performing workplaces.”

Related: Employees seek balance between health care premiums and out-of-pocket expenses

Workplaces that promote recognition of achievements, transparent leadership and empathy are more likely to foster trust between employees and employers. Combining the right mix of benefits with a positive user experience also is highly correlated to increased trust and improved outcomes. Employers can enhance benefits experiences by optimizing communication strategies, providing personalized guidance and consistently engaging employees to support year-round utilization. Employees who use and have positive experiences with their benefits are:

• 2.4 times more likely to feel holistically healthy;
• 2.1 times more likely to trust that their employer will protect them in economic downturns; and
• 1.8x more likely to trust their employer’s leadership.