b'cards to employees homes, posting flyers in common ar- Close the Loopeas, using QR codes, or sending push notifications via anShare success storieswhether its an employee who used employee engagement app. These methods help reach thetuition assistance or someone who benefited from a well-healthcaredecision-makeroftenaspouseorpartner nessprogram.Thesestoriesbuildtrustandencourage and ensure broader engagement. others to engage.Tailor Messaging to Your Workforce Measure Digital EngagementUnderstanding your workforces demographics is key. Of- Track open rates, click-throughs, and engagement metrics. fer materials in multiple languages and provide translatorsAccording to McKinsey, organizations that use people an-duringeducationalsessions.Tailoredmessagingbuildsalytics effectively see:trust and increases accessibility.80 percent increase in recruiting efficiencyProvide FAQs and Support ToolsAnticipate questions and offer answers. FAQ sheets, HR 25 percent rise in business productivityhotlines,anddecision-supporttoolscanhelpemployees navigate changes and make informed choices.50 percent decrease in voluntary attrition THE BUSINESS CASE FOR FINAL THOUGHTSBETTER COMMUNICATION For passenger vessel operators, navigating the complexities Effective benefits communication isnt just good for em- of employee benefits communication requires more than ployeesits good for business. a once-a-year effort. It demands a strategic, year-round ap-proach that puts employees at the center.Increased UtilizationEmployees often forget about or overlook benefits they dontByleveragingenrollmentvendors,embracingtechnolo-use regularly. By implementing use-case stories and seasonalgy, and tailoring communication to your workforce, you reminders (e.g., immunizations before back-to-school or flucan create a benefits experience that drives engagement, shots in early fall), employers can boost engagement. supports well-being, and strengthens your organizations bottom line.Greater UnderstandingPeriodic,bite-sizedcommunicationsaremoredigestible than one-time information dumps. This approach helps employees absorb and retain key details.Smarter Healthcare DecisionsWhenemployeesunderstandhowtousetheirbenefits to find cost-effective care, theyre more likely to make in- About the Author formed choices. This can lead to reduced personal health-care spending and improved organizational outcomes. KATRINA JOHNSONSENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FEEDBACK AND CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT & EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CONSULTANT,Communication is a two-way street. To refine your strate- ASSUREDPARTNERSgy, listen to your employees.Katrina Johnson, senior vice president & employee Survey Annually benefits consultant, helps organizations design and Gather feedback on communication effectiveness throughdeliverimpactfulbenefitsstrategies.Withdeep employee surveys. Use this data to adjust messaging, chan- expertiseinmanaginghealthcarespend,Katrina nels, and timing. partnerswithemployerstocreatesolutionsthat drive engagement, retention, and well-being across her clients. 19 OCTOBER 2025'