{"id":4529,"date":"2020-01-02T13:44:20","date_gmt":"2020-01-02T20:44:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?p=4529"},"modified":"2026-03-10T02:30:47","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T08:30:47","slug":"design-employee-wellness-plan-works","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#How_should_employers_design_an_employee_wellness_plan_that_works\" >How should employers design an employee wellness plan that works?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Assemble_a_Wellness_Plan_Committee\" >Assemble a Wellness Plan Committee<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Designate_a_Coordinator\" >Designate a Coordinator<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Hold_Wellness_Committee_Meetings\" >Hold Wellness Committee Meetings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Appoint_or_Recruit_Team_Leaders\" >Appoint or Recruit Team Leaders<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Assess_the_Worksite_Health_Culture\" >Assess the Worksite Health Culture<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Assess_Employee_Behaviors\" >Assess Employee Behaviors<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#How_much_does_an_employee_wellness_plan_cost\" >How much does an employee wellness plan cost?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Benefits-Based_Incentive_Plans\" >Benefits-Based Incentive Plans<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#What_questions_should_employers_ask_wellness_plan_vendors\" >What questions should employers ask wellness plan vendors?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Product_Quality\" >Product Quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Professionals_Involved_with_Delivery\" >Professionals Involved with Delivery<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#ProductService_Delivery_Customer_Satisfaction\" >Product\/Service Delivery &amp; Customer Satisfaction<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Evaluation_and_Reporting\" >Evaluation and Reporting<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Product_Cost_and_Value\" >Product Cost and Value<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#How_can_employers_build_targeted_workplace_well-being_plans\" >How can employers build targeted workplace well-being plans?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Education_and_Awareness\" >Education and Awareness<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Motivation\" >Motivation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#_Time\" >&nbsp;Time<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#_Access\" >&nbsp;Access<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#_Simplicity\" >&nbsp;Simplicity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#_Cost\" >&nbsp;Cost<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Support\" >Support<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Goals\" >Goals<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Tools\" >Tools<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Environment_and_Policy\" >Environment and Policy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#How_do_I_create_effective_employee_wellness_plan_design\" >How do I create effective employee wellness plan design?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#How_Do_Organizations_Describe_Their_Experience_with_WellSteps\" >How Do Organizations Describe Their Experience with WellSteps?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"#\" data-href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote executive-summary is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-width:1px;padding-top:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-right:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);padding-bottom:var(--wp--preset--spacing--20);padding-left:var(--wp--preset--spacing--50);font-size:17px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-group\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:20px\"><strong>Executive Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group executive-summary\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p style=\"font-size:18px\"><strong>How do you design an employee wellness plan that actually works?<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"executive-summary\" style=\"font-size:16px\">An employee wellness plan works when it is built around clear goals, proven behavior-change strategies, and consistent support. Effective plans raise awareness, motivate employees, teach practical skills, and create real opportunities to practice healthier habits at work. When these elements are aligned and measured over time, wellness programs move from activity-based efforts to lasting improvements in employee health and engagement.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-should-employers-design-an-employee-wellness-plan-that-works\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_should_employers_design_an_employee_wellness_plan_that_works\"><\/span><strong>How should employers design an employee wellness plan that works?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When you design an employee wellness plan, there are two basic options:<strong> use an <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2017\/03\/24\/wellness-solutions-workplace-wellness-programs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>outside vendor<\/strong><\/a><strong> or develop your program internally<\/strong>. Regardless of the option you choose, there are several steps you need to take to have a successful program.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"541\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/employee-wellness-plan-1024x541.jpg\" alt=\"employee wellness plan, wellness plan, wellness plans, wellbeing plan, corporate wellness plan, wellness plans, worksite wellness plan, worksite wellness plans, fitness and wellness plan, employee wellness plans, successful wellness plan, corporate wellness plans, health and wellness plan, employee wellness program template, wellness plan examples, employee wellness programs pdf\" class=\"wp-image-4531\" style=\"width:600px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/employee-wellness-plan-1024x541.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/employee-wellness-plan-300x159.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/employee-wellness-plan-768x406.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/04\/employee-wellness-plan.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>How do I create an employee wellness plan? Support from all levels of management is key to the success of your employee wellness plan. To gain management support, inform managers about the program early on and encourage them to participate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Regularly communicate the goals of the program and the anticipated benefits to both the company and employees. Here is the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/03\/01\/start-an-employee-wellness-program\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">complete list of strategies<\/a> you can use to get strong leadership support for your wellness plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-assemble-a-wellness-plan-committee\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assemble_a_Wellness_Plan_Committee\"><\/span><strong>Assemble a Wellness Plan Committee<\/strong> <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A wellness committee is responsible for promoting the program, planning activities, communicating with management and employees, and facilitating program evaluation. The size and composition of the committee will depend on the size of your company and the scope of the program. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"678\" height=\"381\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/commitee-meeting-wellness-incentives.jpeg\" alt=\"employee wellness plan, wellness plan, wellness plans, wellbeing plan, corporate wellness plan, wellness plans, worksite wellness plan, worksite wellness plans, fitness and wellness plan, employee wellness plans, successful wellness plan, corporate wellness plans, health and wellness plan, employee wellness program template, wellness plan examples, employee wellness programs pdf\" class=\"wp-image-1949\" style=\"width:441px;height:247px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/commitee-meeting-wellness-incentives.jpeg 678w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/02\/commitee-meeting-wellness-incentives-300x169.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 678px) 100vw, 678px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>A committee of at least 6 and no more than 12 should be adequate. The committee should include staff that represent various employee shifts and departments such as management, union representatives, human resources, or administrative assistants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-designate-a-coordinator\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Designate_a_Coordinator\"><\/span><strong>Designate a Coordinator<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A wellness coordinator should be designated by management or elected by the wellness committee. The primary role of the coordinator is to lead the wellness committee and to coordinate the internal delivery of the program. <\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/intern.jpg\" alt=\"wellness coordinator\" style=\"width:417px;height:313px\"\/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Program success is often linked to the coordinator\u2019s time and ability. It is essential that some or all of the coordinator\u2019s time be dedicated to the wellness plan. If this isn\u2019t possible, then an outside vendor should be contracted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hold-wellness-committee-meetings\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hold_Wellness_Committee_Meetings\"><\/span><strong>Hold Wellness Committee Meetings<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The wellness committee should meet at least on a quarterly basis. The committee may meet more often during peak times when planning or implementing activities or programs. Meeting frequency will depend on the committee goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To revitalize the wellness committee, make committee membership a one or two year commitment so that new ideas and constituents are included on a rotating basis. The committee should create a communication mechanism with management so successes can be reported.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-appoint-or-recruit-team-leaders\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Appoint_or_Recruit_Team_Leaders\"><\/span><strong>Appoint or Recruit Team Leaders<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Effective delivery of employee wellness plans is often dependent on a leader that is close to the participants. Depending on the structure of your organization, you may want to develop smaller teams that have leaders or \u201ccaptains\u201d to help provide motivation, information, and support to the program participants.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1030\" height=\"687\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/resell-wellness.jpg\" alt=\"leaders\" class=\"wp-image-1624\" style=\"width:425px;height:283px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/resell-wellness.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/resell-wellness-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/resell-wellness-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/resell-wellness-1024x683.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1030px) 100vw, 1030px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Leaders have a major impact on whether the participants have a positive experience. A team leader can be the point of contact or messenger for information shared between the program participants and the wellness committee and vice versa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about having an effective committee, check out this great article, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2019\/01\/03\/worksite-wellness-committee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">11 Ways a Worksite Wellness Committee Helps Programs Succeed<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important that the team leaders be creative, enthusiastic, and committed to the program. The team leaders do not have to be the most active and healthy staff members; it is more important that they have the skills to help motivate their team members to success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>\u201cTo gain management support, inform managers about the program early on and encourage them to participate. Regularly communicate the goals of the program and the anticipated benefits to both the company and employees.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-assess-the-worksite-health-culture\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assess_the_Worksite_Health_Culture\"><\/span><strong>Assess the Worksite Health Culture<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of completing a health culture audit is to identify the cultural supports for good health and areas that might need improvement. A health culture audit will be a good starting point for your employee wellness plan and will guide the actions of your wellness committee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Working to improve the health culture at your worksite will make the worksite more supportive of healthy behaviors (i.e. healthy food choices, no smoking policies, walking during breaks, etc.).<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/ws-checklist-to-change\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"801\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Checklist-to-change.png\" alt=\"checklist to change, health culture\" class=\"wp-image-935\" style=\"width:478px;height:239px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Checklist-to-change.png 1600w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Checklist-to-change-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Checklist-to-change-768x384.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/08\/Checklist-to-change-1024x513.png 1024w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>One method for assessing your health culture is called the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/ws-checklist-to-change\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Checklist to Change<\/a>. It will help you assess your workplace and then identify evidence-based strategies to improve workplace policy and environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This checklist can be completed online in less than 10 minutes. It&#8217;s free, and you will receive immediate feedback and implementation strategies. And remember, culture can vary from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2025\/08\/19\/location-based-employee-wellness-programs\/\">location<\/a> to location within a single organization, so you may consider completing the checklist with different locations in mind for a more comprehensive list of recommendations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-assess-employee-behaviors\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Assess_Employee_Behaviors\"><\/span><strong>Assess Employee Behaviors<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The most common method of assessing employee behavior is to use a Health Risk Appraisal (HRA). An HRA has two outputs. The first output is an individual report that can help your employees identify modifiable risk factors for chronic disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The second output is an aggregate report which can be used to stratify employees according to risk so that preventable health issues can be prioritized, and strategies developed.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-109217\" style=\"width:467px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/WellSteps-PERSONAL-HEALTH-ASSESSMENT.png 1080w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Both online and paper\/pencil HRA\u2019s are available. Web-based HRA\u2019s are less expensive and offer feedback in real time. Whatever method you use, make it as simple as possible for employees to complete and submit their HRA so you get a high return rate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Consider offering an incentive for people who complete the assessment. An excellent HRA can be found <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/resources-pha\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>. A good health risk appraisal will generate useful health reports for individuals and aggregate reports for companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-much-does-an-employee-wellness-plan-cost\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_an_employee_wellness_plan_cost\"><\/span><strong>How much does an employee wellness plan cost?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Employee wellness plans typically cost between $2 and $7.50 per employee per month ($24 -$90\/ year). This can include a mobile app and website that can offer a health risk appraisal, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2017\/02\/17\/wellness-incentive-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">incentive management<\/a>, online resources,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/ws-checklist-to-change\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">culture change<\/a>,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2017\/04\/18\/wellness-challenges-wellness-challenge-ideas\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wellness campaigns and team challenges<\/a>, and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/06\/13\/wearables-and-wellness-programs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">integration of fitness devices<\/a>. Occasionally this cost will also include some money for simple incentives like gift cards or T-shirts.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"655\" height=\"510\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/PORTAL.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-109218\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover;width:507px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/PORTAL.jpg 655w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/PORTAL-300x234.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 655px) 100vw, 655px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>WellSteps has over 400 worksites that we currently work with and most of them are getting a comprehensive wellness plan for around $36-$90 per employee per year, depending on the size of the company. The larger the company, the smaller the cost per year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This does not include the cost of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/07\/11\/how-to-do-biometric-screening\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">biometric screening<\/a>, health coaching, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/08\/01\/wellness-program-incentives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">benefits-based incentives<\/a>. These are not automatically included because they are the most expensive parts of any wellness plan for employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-bordered table-striped\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Wellness Plan Options:<\/th>\n<th>Cost<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Biometric screening (blood draw and analysis)<\/td>\n<td>$40-$75<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Health coaching (6 sessions)<\/td>\n<td>$140-$165<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Benefits-based incentives<\/td>\n<td>$200-$800 per employee per year<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Add <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/07\/11\/how-to-do-biometric-screening\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">biometric screening<\/a>, telephonic&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2017\/03\/09\/corporate-health-coach-companies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">health coaching<\/a>, and robust incentives including&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/08\/01\/wellness-program-incentives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">benefits-based incentives<\/a> and you can see how the cost grows dramatically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-benefits-based-incentive-plans\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Benefits-Based_Incentive_Plans\"><\/span>Benefits-Based Incentive Plans<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We have found that great participation happens if the employers will establish a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/08\/01\/wellness-program-incentives\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">benefits-based incentive plan<\/a>. Benefits-based wellness incentive plans typically include the incentive of a discount on insurance premiums, paid time off, a contribution to an HSA or HRA, or a lower co-pay or deductible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Benefits-based incentives have a big impact on employee engagement. Some WellSteps clients offer a $50\/month discount off the cost of an insurance premium. That\u2019s $600 per year per qualifying employee. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other companies spend more and some spend less than this. According to the <a href=\"https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20221006105554\/https:\/\/www.healthcarefinancenews.com\/news\/employer-wellness-programs-spend-record-693-worker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Washington Business Group on Health<\/a>, some employers are now spending $742 per employee per year on incentives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If establishing a benefits-based incentive is too bold for your worksite, consider purchasing other incentives that are not tied to your benefits. Many of our WellSteps clients have a small wellness budget dedicated to purchasing rewards or incentives for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/04\/08\/wellness-program-engagement-the-complete-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">program engagement<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-questions-should-employers-ask-wellness-plan-vendors\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_questions_should_employers_ask_wellness_plan_vendors\"><\/span><strong>What questions should employers ask wellness plan vendors?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are over 55 national companies that provide wellness services.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2017\/03\/24\/wellness-solutions-workplace-wellness-programs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Here is the complete list of U.S. wellness vendors<\/a>.&nbsp;If you decide to hire a vendor, here is a list of questions you should ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-product-quality\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Product_Quality\"><\/span><strong>Product Quality<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Can the vendor provide careful documentation of its product\/service health or cost impact?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does the vendor have evaluative data to support the product\/service?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can the vendor provide several different integrated products\/services, or does it just specialize in one area?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Will the vendor customize the product to meet the needs of your company?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-professionals-involved-with-delivery\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Professionals_Involved_with_Delivery\"><\/span><strong>Professionals Involved with Delivery<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What type of education and training do the professionals involved with the product\/service delivery have?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is the performance of professionals delivering products\/services audited by the vendor for effectiveness, efficiency, accuracy, etc.?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/WellSteps_Guide_new_2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"employee wellness plan, wellness plan, wellness plans, wellbeing plan, corporate wellness plan, wellness plans, worksite wellness plan, worksite wellness plans, fitness and wellness plan, employee wellness plans, successful wellness plan, corporate wellness plans, health and wellness plan, employee wellness program template, wellness plan examples, employee wellness programs pdf\" class=\"wp-image-3923\" style=\"width:386px;height:257px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/WellSteps_Guide_new_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/WellSteps_Guide_new_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/WellSteps_Guide_new_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/WellSteps_Guide_new_2.jpg 1600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-product-service-delivery-amp-customer-satisfaction\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"ProductService_Delivery_Customer_Satisfaction\"><\/span><strong>Product\/Service Delivery &amp; Customer Satisfaction<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Can the vendor clearly state in writing the products\/services that will be provided?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is the vendor willing to establish a contract with your organization?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Does the vendor provide you with an \u201caccount manager\u201d who will take full responsibility for your complete customer satisfaction?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-evaluation-and-reporting\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Evaluation_and_Reporting\"><\/span><strong>Evaluation and Reporting<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Does the vendor collect adequate and accurate data on the product\/service activity and outcomes?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can the vendor provide reports and other aggregate data to the customer in appropriate electronic formats?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"650\" height=\"842\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/campaign-report-example.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-109222\" style=\"width:350px;height:453px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/campaign-report-example.jpg 650w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/campaign-report-example-232x300.jpg 232w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-product-cost-and-value\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Product_Cost_and_Value\"><\/span><strong>Product Cost and Value<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Is the cost of the product\/service competitive with the cost of other vendors? Is the pricing all-inclusive (no hidden costs)?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Do the results of the product\/service justify the price?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are even more ideas to help you <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/10\/04\/corporate-wellness-vendors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">choose the right wellness vendor<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-can-employers-build-targeted-workplace-well-being-plans\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_employers_build_targeted_workplace_well-being_plans\"><\/span><strong>How can employers build targeted workplace well-being plans?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>What should be included in a wellness program? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2016\/09\/07\/best-worksite-wellness-programs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Behavior change<\/a> is the key to having a successful company wellness plan. The best worksite wellness plans keep the focus on the need to help employees adopt and maintain healthy behaviors. Behavior change is the key to reducing health risks, reducing the prevalence of chronic disease, and reducing employee related expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is impossible to have good health unless you have healthy behaviors. Behavior change strategies for wellness plans come in varying intensities including, from lowest to highest: education, motivation, tools, environment, and policy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>High intensity strategies take the most effort, time, and money, but they are also the most effective. Usually, it is best to include a mix of strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-education-and-awareness\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Education_and_Awareness\"><\/span><strong>Education and Awareness<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The purpose of educational strategies is primarily to raise awareness, provide information, and create \u201cwater cooler\u201d buzz. These small things will help move employees toward behavior change and will help shift the culture in a healthy direction. Educational strategies include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Information in the company newsletter<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Email campaigns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Staff meeting presentations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Informational posters in the hallways or common areas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Information pieces in payroll envelopes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lunch and learn workshops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health screenings and assessments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It is possible that some of your employees are experienced in education or communications. Be sure to include them on the wellness committee. If your company uses a vendor, ensure that the vendor has access to communicate with all of your employees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-motivation\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Motivation\"><\/span><strong>Motivation<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Some employees will engage in your wellness plan while others won\u2019t because they were either already engaged, or they have no interest in engaging. In fact, people generally exist on a continuum of readiness to change. It is important to remember that there is no way to motivate every employee every time. However, you can improve success by applying these principles:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nbsp-time\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Time\"><\/span>&nbsp;Time<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Combine two good things. For example, employees can bring a healthy lunch on a day when a speaker talks about healthy eating.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add 10 minutes of activity. Schedule 10 minutes to walk to or from the cafeteria, or from the parking lot.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider time of day and duration of activity. Match the targeted audience with the time of day and duration of activity. Many people, if given a choice of any benefit, will choose more time with family. Therefore, before and after work are generally bad times.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nbsp-access\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Access\"><\/span>&nbsp;Access<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make it easy. Employee wellness plans offered onsite increase participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make it convenient. Offer programs at breaks, lunch, or online.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nbsp-simplicity\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Simplicity\"><\/span>&nbsp;Simplicity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Make the choice clear. How to participate should be easy to understand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make the benefits obvious. Highlight relevant program benefits in marketing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"380\" height=\"284\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/6.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-109220\" style=\"width:412px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/6.jpg 380w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/6-300x224.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 380px) 100vw, 380px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-nbsp-cost\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"_Cost\"><\/span>&nbsp;Cost<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Free is best. Cost is a barrier: eliminate cost to increase participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cost sharing fosters commitment. When the employee has a tangible (money) or intangible cost (giving up something to enroll), commitment to change increases.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incentives. Encourage or maintain participation, and reinforce benefits to \u201cfence sitters.\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Benefits. Health insurance rebates or contributions to Health Reimbursement Accounts are powerful incentives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Money talks. Worksites that have used cash or rebates as incentives have had impressive participation rates.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Time off. Even a half-day off can be a powerful incentive. For some people, time is a more powerful incentive than money.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Achievement awards. Recognition helps to reinforce program benefits. A quality certificate displayed in a public area is also a form of marketing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Public recognition. Public praise feels good to participants who have achieved goals, and creates a vicarious incentive for future participants.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Merchandise. The possibilities are endless. The merchandise should be selected based on demographic characteristics of the employee population. This incentive can be awarded using a lottery style drawing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Food. Include healthy food to kick-off, revitalize, or wrap up a wellness campaign.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Entertainment. Events can help jump-start, reenergize or wrap up a program. Entertainment is generally a morale booster.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1698\" height=\"956\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas.jpg\" alt=\"worksite wellbeing strtegies, employee wellness program template, wellness plan examples, employee wellness programs pdf\" class=\"wp-image-853\" style=\"width:435px;height:244px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas.jpg 1698w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas-1024x577.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/07\/wellness-incentive-ideas-800x450.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1698px) 100vw, 1698px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-support\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Support\"><\/span>Support<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Buddy systems. Supportive social groups can be the backbone for a successful program because each individual is committed to another person or team, and group programs are more fun for most people.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Team competition. When \u201cbeating the LA office\u201d is added to the reason why an employee should engage, both participation and commitment increase.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Coaching. Using trained health coaches is more expensive but can help employees keep change commitments.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Timing. Extra support is needed through the first 6 weeks of any behavior change process. Periodic support is needed during the first 6 months.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"395\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/reasons-for-employee-wellness.jpg\" alt=\"worksite health activity, employee wellness program template, wellness plan examples, employee wellness programs pdf\" class=\"wp-image-2885\" style=\"width:466px;height:306px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/reasons-for-employee-wellness.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/reasons-for-employee-wellness-300x198.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/07\/reasons-for-employee-wellness-342x225.jpg 342w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-goals\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Goals\"><\/span>Goals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Setting goals leads to greater participation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Whether it is a team goal of \u201cwalking\u201d to New York City by New Years, or an individual goal to walk 100 miles, goals increase the likelihood that people will stick with a program.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tools\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tools\"><\/span><strong>Tools<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tools are items or skills your employees need if they are going to be successful at changing behaviors. A baby stroller is a great example of a tool. It allows parents with young children to still walk or jog. Learning to stir fry vegetables is a skill. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Learning how to dress for outdoor exercise is a skill, while comfortable walking shoes are tools. A nicotine patch is a tool. You get the idea. Your employees are going to need new skills and tools if they are going to experience long-term changes in behavior. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-environment-and-policy\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environment_and_Policy\"><\/span><strong>Environment and Policy<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Employees spend more waking hours at work than anywhere else. So it makes sense that changing the environment or culture of an organization would support the individual behavior change process. An employee wellness plan can help target environment and policy changes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Policies promote widespread behavior change because they change the \u201crules.\u201d Policies in the work environment not only influence individual behavior at work but can also lead to changes outside of work. In many cases, policy changes make it easier to make healthy choices and can be incorporated as part of your employee wellness program plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An example would be serving bagels and fruit instead of pastries at company events. Some other wellness plan examples include healthy food guidelines for company events, no smoking on company property, and company cost-sharing for health club memberships. Check out these <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/06\/04\/5-wellness-program-ideas-for-blue-collar-workers\/\">blue collar wellness programs<\/a> for industry specific ideas. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/ws-checklist-to-change\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Checklist to Change<\/a> is a short survey you can take to help you see what things your worksite is doing to help or hamper healthy behaviors. It shows you what environmental and policy strategies you may not have thought of. It\u2019s an extremely helpful tool to help you make your worksite one that supports healthy living. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-i-create-effective-employee-wellness-plan-design\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_I_create_effective_employee_wellness_plan_design\"><\/span><strong>How do I create effective employee wellness plan design?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Use the information in this section to laser focus your employee wellness plan. Consider addressing some of the simple changes first to generate change momentum. As your wellness plan matures, you can always tackle some of the more difficult issues. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/demosignup\">Schedule a free demo<\/a> <\/strong>with our team today and see how you can get started with your employee wellness plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-do-organizations-describe-their-experience-with-wellsteps\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_Organizations_Describe_Their_Experience_with_WellSteps\"><\/span><strong>How Do Organizations Describe Their Experience with WellSteps?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>&#8220;<em>WellSteps has kept me on track and keeps me accountable with my health and wellness. I love interacting with everyone and giving motivation and support to others as well!&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p>&#8220;<em>I have really enjoyed the WellSteps program so far. I have always tried to live a healthy lifestyle, but have never really been consistent with it since getting out of the Military. This program has really helped keep me on track to reach my goals!&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><em>&#8220;Since starting WellSteps, we have been far more active in the office! Everyday a large group will use a part of their break and we walk about 2 miles in the business park. I have lost 12lbs in the last 3 months, and my coworkers are shedding pounds as well! Not only are we feeling good, our team morale has increased too! Can&#8217;t wait to see where this journey takes us!&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773131328871\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What\u2019s the first step HR should take when designing an employee wellness plan that actually works?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">When HR teams ask where to start with an employee wellness plan, I always suggest beginning with employee input. A simple needs assessment or survey ensures the plan aligns with real challenges\u2014stress, burnout, activity levels, sleep, or nutrition.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773131345084\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How can companies build an employee wellness plan that employees actually participate in?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Participation improves when an employee wellness plan uses simple activities, consistent communication, and achievable habits. The more approachable the activities, the more people join in.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773131345850\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"> Why should an employee wellness plan include tracking and measurable goals?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> Tracking adds visibility and motivation. An employee wellness plan works better when employees can see progress over time through tools like WellSteps MyTracker, helping them stay committed.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773131346727\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"> How can incentives strengthen an employee wellness plan?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"> Incentives drive long-term engagement. A thoughtful employee wellness plan includes meaningful rewards tied to consistency, not perfection. WellSteps Rewards makes this simple to administer.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1773131347525\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What elements make an employee wellness plan sustainable year after year?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">A sustainable employee wellness plan rotates themes, uses short challenges, and provides ongoing resources so employees stay engaged beyond the kickoff.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How should employers design an employee wellness plan that works? When you design an employee wellness plan, there are two basic options: use an outside vendor or develop your program internally. Regardless of the option you choose, there are several steps you need to take to have a successful program. How do I create an&hellip;&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/\" rel=\"bookmark\">Read More &raquo;<span class=\"screen-reader-text\">How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":108200,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"neve_meta_sidebar":"","neve_meta_container":"","neve_meta_enable_content_width":"","neve_meta_content_width":0,"neve_meta_title_alignment":"","neve_meta_author_avatar":"","neve_post_elements_order":"","neve_meta_disable_header":"","neve_meta_disable_footer":"","neve_meta_disable_title":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[522],"tags":[2403,1675,2399,2407,2406,2409,2408,2402,2400,2401,2404,2405],"class_list":["post-4529","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wellness-programs","tag-corporate-wellness-plan","tag-corporate-wellness-plans","tag-employee-wellness-plan","tag-employee-wellness-plans","tag-fitness-and-wellness-plan","tag-health-and-wellness-plan","tag-successful-wellness-plan","tag-wellbeing-plan","tag-wellness-plan","tag-wellness-plans","tag-worksite-wellness-plan","tag-worksite-wellness-plans"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"What does a successful employee wellness plan include? Here is everything you need to create a successful employee wellness plan.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Executive Summary How do you design an employee wellness plan that actually works? An employee wellness plan works when it is built around clear goals,\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WellSteps\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2560\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1707\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Dr. Steve Aldana\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@wellsteps\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@wellsteps\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Dr. Steve Aldana\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"15 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Dr. Steve Aldana\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/5a665881fbbbd2658e8b0fab9a2f701e\"},\"headline\":\"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":3061,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"corporate wellness plan\",\"corporate wellness plans\",\"employee wellness plan\",\"employee wellness plans\",\"fitness and wellness plan\",\"health and wellness plan\",\"successful wellness plan\",\"wellbeing plan\",\"wellness plan\",\"wellness plans\",\"worksite wellness plan\",\"worksite wellness plans\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Wellness programs\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/\",\"name\":\"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00\",\"description\":\"What does a successful employee wellness plan include? Here is everything you need to create a successful employee wellness plan.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131328871\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345084\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345850\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131346727\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131347525\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":1707},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Blog\",\"description\":\"Effective Employee Wellness Solutions\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"WellSteps\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2015\\\/12\\\/logo1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2015\\\/12\\\/logo1.jpg\",\"width\":2443,\"height\":760,\"caption\":\"WellSteps\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/WellSteps\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/wellsteps\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/wellsteps\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCWdZuzr-WBwUtgxUr6sC4jQ\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/5a665881fbbbd2658e8b0fab9a2f701e\",\"name\":\"Dr. Steve Aldana\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Dr. Steve Aldana\"},\"description\":\"Dr. Aldana is the CEO of Wellsteps, a worksite wellness solution that leads the nation in wellness program deployment and engagement. Dr. Aldana authored over 75 scientific papers and 7 books on health risk management, healthy living, and health promotion programs. He has given over 350 keynote speeches across the U.S. on the ability of good nutrition and regular exercise to prevent, arrest, and reverse many chronic diseases.\",\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\"],\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/author\\\/steve\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131328871\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131328871\",\"name\":\"What\u2019s the first step HR should take when designing an employee wellness plan that actually works?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"When HR teams ask where to start with an employee wellness plan, I always suggest beginning with employee input. A simple needs assessment or survey ensures the plan aligns with real challenges\u2014stress, burnout, activity levels, sleep, or nutrition.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345084\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345084\",\"name\":\"How can companies build an employee wellness plan that employees actually participate in?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Participation improves when an employee wellness plan uses simple activities, consistent communication, and achievable habits. The more approachable the activities, the more people join in.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345850\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131345850\",\"name\":\"Why should an employee wellness plan include tracking and measurable goals?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Tracking adds visibility and motivation. An employee wellness plan works better when employees can see progress over time through tools like WellSteps MyTracker, helping them stay committed.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131346727\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131346727\",\"name\":\"How can incentives strengthen an employee wellness plan?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\" Incentives drive long-term engagement. A thoughtful employee wellness plan includes meaningful rewards tied to consistency, not perfection. WellSteps Rewards makes this simple to administer.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131347525\",\"position\":5,\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.wellsteps.com\\\/blog\\\/2020\\\/01\\\/02\\\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\\\/#faq-question-1773131347525\",\"name\":\"What elements make an employee wellness plan sustainable year after year?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"A sustainable employee wellness plan rotates themes, uses short challenges, and provides ongoing resources so employees stay engaged beyond the kickoff.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works","description":"What does a successful employee wellness plan include? Here is everything you need to create a successful employee wellness plan.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works","og_description":"Executive Summary How do you design an employee wellness plan that actually works? An employee wellness plan works when it is built around clear goals,","og_url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/","og_site_name":"Blog","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WellSteps\/","article_published_time":"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2560,"height":1707,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Dr. Steve Aldana","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@wellsteps","twitter_site":"@wellsteps","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Dr. Steve Aldana","Est. reading time":"15 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/"},"author":{"name":"Dr. Steve Aldana","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/5a665881fbbbd2658e8b0fab9a2f701e"},"headline":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works","datePublished":"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/"},"wordCount":3061,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg","keywords":["corporate wellness plan","corporate wellness plans","employee wellness plan","employee wellness plans","fitness and wellness plan","health and wellness plan","successful wellness plan","wellbeing plan","wellness plan","wellness plans","worksite wellness plan","worksite wellness plans"],"articleSection":["Wellness programs"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/","url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/","name":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg","datePublished":"2020-01-02T20:44:20+00:00","dateModified":"2026-03-10T08:30:47+00:00","description":"What does a successful employee wellness plan include? Here is everything you need to create a successful employee wellness plan.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131328871"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345084"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345850"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131346727"},{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131347525"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/Happy-Coworkers-scaled.jpg","width":2560,"height":1707},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"How to Design an Employee Wellness Plan That Works"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/","name":"Blog","description":"Effective Employee Wellness Solutions","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"WellSteps","url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/logo1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/12\/logo1.jpg","width":2443,"height":760,"caption":"WellSteps"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/WellSteps\/","https:\/\/x.com\/wellsteps","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/wellsteps","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCWdZuzr-WBwUtgxUr6sC4jQ"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/5a665881fbbbd2658e8b0fab9a2f701e","name":"Dr. Steve Aldana","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9947cbc048487036152bad093a611b6140eb2e1b8553c29965e400ae109f7f6d?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Dr. Steve Aldana"},"description":"Dr. Aldana is the CEO of Wellsteps, a worksite wellness solution that leads the nation in wellness program deployment and engagement. Dr. Aldana authored over 75 scientific papers and 7 books on health risk management, healthy living, and health promotion programs. He has given over 350 keynote speeches across the U.S. on the ability of good nutrition and regular exercise to prevent, arrest, and reverse many chronic diseases.","sameAs":["https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com"],"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/author\/steve\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131328871","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131328871","name":"What\u2019s the first step HR should take when designing an employee wellness plan that actually works?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"When HR teams ask where to start with an employee wellness plan, I always suggest beginning with employee input. A simple needs assessment or survey ensures the plan aligns with real challenges\u2014stress, burnout, activity levels, sleep, or nutrition.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345084","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345084","name":"How can companies build an employee wellness plan that employees actually participate in?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Participation improves when an employee wellness plan uses simple activities, consistent communication, and achievable habits. The more approachable the activities, the more people join in.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345850","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131345850","name":"Why should an employee wellness plan include tracking and measurable goals?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" Tracking adds visibility and motivation. An employee wellness plan works better when employees can see progress over time through tools like WellSteps MyTracker, helping them stay committed.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131346727","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131346727","name":"How can incentives strengthen an employee wellness plan?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":" Incentives drive long-term engagement. A thoughtful employee wellness plan includes meaningful rewards tied to consistency, not perfection. WellSteps Rewards makes this simple to administer.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131347525","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/2020\/01\/02\/design-employee-wellness-plan-works\/#faq-question-1773131347525","name":"What elements make an employee wellness plan sustainable year after year?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"A sustainable employee wellness plan rotates themes, uses short challenges, and provides ongoing resources so employees stay engaged beyond the kickoff.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4529","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4529"}],"version-history":[{"count":23,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4529\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":111358,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4529\/revisions\/111358"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/108200"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4529"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4529"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.wellsteps.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4529"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}