Smart Strategies to Enhance Communicating Benefits to Employees

Employee benefits are essential to attracting and retaining top talent, yet sometimes employers struggle to communicate these offerings effectively. While substantial investments are made in benefits programs, employees may feel out of the loop if the conversation only happens once or twice a year during enrollment.

This gap in communicating benefits to employees can have serious consequences. Research shows that dental care is deferred more often than medical care, with 12.7% of Americans skipping dental visits due to cost, compared to 5.1% for medical care. When benefits go unused, employers see less return on their investment and employees miss out on preventive care that could protect their long-term health. A robust, ongoing communication strategy can reinforce how your employees understand and use their benefits, especially when it comes to dental coverage.

Offer preferred benefits based on employee input

Often, employers assume they know what benefits employees value. Instead of defaulting to traditional plans, consider launching a confidential survey to learn directly from your workforce. Ask employees to rank which benefits matter most to them and invite suggestions for new offerings. Leveraging honest feedback not only ensures the benefits package stays relevant but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to meeting employee needs. When plans don’t meet those needs, employers miss critical opportunities to improve health outcomes and reduce long-term costs.

Communicate frequently and consistently

Enrollment season can be overwhelming for many employees. Rather than a single burst of information, create an ongoing communication strategy throughout the year. Share key details about different coverage options and plan features at regular intervals, whether that means a monthly update or targeted outreach before open enrollment. Early and consistent communication helps employees understand their options and feel more confident in making the best choices for their circumstances.

For example, explain the value of regular dental visits. According to recent data data, members with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease saved between $2,700 and $11,000 annually in medical costs when they had at least one dental cleaning. This kind of tangible information helps employees see the real-world value of using their benefits.

Diversify your communication channels

With multiple generations in the workplace, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to communication. Some employees prefer face-to-face meetings with printed materials, while others lean toward digital formats like emails, videos, or social media posts. By using a mix of communication channels, employers can ensure that every employee has access to the benefits information in the format that works best for them. Overall, a well-designed communication plan increases engagement and can drive better plan utilization, which ultimately supports employee health and employer cost savings.

Reinforce the link between dental and medical health

Many employees view dental coverage as separate from their overall health plan. But the connection is well-established: poor oral health has been linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even pregnancy complications. When employees understand that routine dental care can help detect early signs of chronic disease and reduce medical costs, they’re more likely to use their benefits and appreciate the full value of their coverage.

Highlight real-world success stories

Employees resonate with real-life examples of how benefits can make a difference. Share success stories that demonstrate positive health outcomes and financial savings achieved by coworkers using their benefits. Whether it’s a success with dental benefits, or another program, these stories add a personal touch that reinforces the value of the benefits package and inspires others to explore their options.

A comprehensive communication strategy informs employees about their benefits and strengthens the overall perception that their well-being is a company priority. By actively engaging with your workforce through multiple channels and clear messaging, you can create a more informed, satisfied, and healthy team.

Sources and References:
American Dental Association, Health Policy Institute (2023)
Artemis Health (2022)
NIH: Oral Health in America (2021)