It is becoming increasing clearer that the traditional worksite wellness programs of today are evolving into programs that are currently being called Wellness 2.0. From the descriptions I have seen, I would describe Wellness 2.0 as actually being employee well-being programs.
In another article, I presented the Quality of Work Life per Square Foot concept which focuses on the workplace environment. In this article, I am going to introduce you to another employee well-being concept: the Quality of the Employment Experience.
It is important for employers to understand that quality jobs help to recruit and retain quality, talented employees. Employers need to ask: What will motivate my employees to come to work, work hard and want to stay employed here? The answer, in part, lies in both the quality of the work environment and the quality of the employment experience. The work environment and the employment experience are both items under the employer’s control and therefore can be impacted by the actions of the employer.
Boston College’s Sloan Center on Aging and Work has developed a Quality of Employment Framework that consists of eight dimensions:
- Fair, attractive and competitive compensation and benefits;
- Opportunities for development, learning and advancement;
- Wellness, health and safety protections;
- Workplace flexibility, autonomy and control;
- Opportunities for meaningful work;
- Promotion of constructive relationships at work;
- Having a culture of respect, inclusion and equity; and
- Provisions for employment security and predict-abilities.
Many of these dimensions can utilize strategies and interventions that can be instituted at little or no cost.
How many of these dimensions are now in use at your workplace?
You can freely access a copy of the Quality of Employment Framework here: http://www.bc.edu/research/agingandwork/about/qualityEmploy.html
William McPeck, MSW, CWWPC, WLCP
Bill McPeck is a Workplace Wellness Centre of Excellence, Inc. Associate. Bill is a Certified Wellness Culture Coach, Worksite Wellness Program Consultant and Work-Life Professional. He is available to help you with all your employee wellness, safety, work-life and well-being needs. Contact Bill with your questions, comments, or concerns at 207-355-1203 or williammcpeck@gmail.com
