As they begin to recover from the economic crisis, what challenges will businesses face?
The three top priorities for human resources leaders offer some answers to that question. They're focused on
managing benefit costs, boosting employee engagement and
recruiting quality workers, according to a
new survey commissioned by Unum in partnership with Harvard Business Review Analytic Services.
Nearly 80% of HR leaders agree — being a company that cares about the well-being of employees is very important to attracting and retaining a quality workforce.
At the same time, nearly 60% said managing benefit costs is a top challenge, and nearly 80% expect that challenge to intensify in the next three years.
"Human resources leaders are walking a tightrope in balancing these demands, and they're telling us that the pressure is only going to increase," said Mike Simonds, senior vice president for Unum. "Their employee benefits partners need to take an active role in helping them balance costs and build a culture that contributes to an engaged workforce."
You can do both: Show your employees you care and manage your benefits costs. Offer better benefits at work.
Verbatim: HR leaders' voices from the study
"We are under cost pressures, but we are trying to be creative to keep those costs off employees who have worked very hard to get us through this period."
"We think this benefits package is part of who we are. This is part of the relationship we have with the employees."
"We have to show that who you are really matters here, and we are concerned about your welfare, not just whether you show up and do a job."