Feedback has been great, and take up was high too.'
As always it's very gratifying to receive positive feedback from the events we run for our clients. When I wrote about running successful wellbeing events last month in How to run an amazing wellbeing event, I focused on how the practical and realistic advice available on the day makes a huge difference to how empowered and motivated staff feel.
Today I thought it would be worthwhile writing a few words on the practicalities of organising an amazing wellbeing event. Effective organisation is key to the success of any wellbeing day and this was certainly the case at this event. So what are the key logistical considerations you need to think about to make your event a success?
1) Your wellbeing day must be relevant for your audience
If you're planning a wellbeing event, consult staff to find out what resources they'd find most useful. There's no need to throw everything at every single event. Be selective and ensure quality of advice, consultations, treatments and information available on the day.
A great thing about wellbeing events is that you can discover a huge amount about the challenges staff in your organisation face when it comes to looking after themselves and you can use this information to plan targeted initiatives for your future programme.
A series of events with targeted initiatives at each event will be more successful than a single huge event that people find overwhelming. A series of events also sends the message that the wellbeing of your staff is a long-term priority for the business, not just a one-hit wonder.
2) Communicate the benefits for staff clearly
This means broadcasting details of the event well in advance and then regularly leading up to the day. Make sure staff have details of what's on offer as well as the potential benefits for them of attending.
Point out that you are organising this event and including initiatives based on what they've asked for and that if you're responding to their requests, they have a responsibility to come along and take part.
Create a sense of excitement and anticipation in the lead-up to the event. Send staff details of positive results that colleagues have experienced by implementing lifestyle changes they've learned about at previous events. If this is your first event, use case studies from wellbeing events that have been run elsewhere.
3) Get the support of managers and directors
Staff must know that it's OK to take time to attend the event. This is something that was key to the success of the event on Wednesday. Within this organisation it's understood that the wellbeing days are designed to educate staff and help them uncover the specific lifestyle choices and motivation that suit their situation. Everyone is free to take their time and make the most of the resources on offer.
Line managers should attend events to demonstrate that they value wellbeing initiatives and expect staff to make the most of the opportunity to attend.
One final point. To increase the long-term value of each wellbeing event that you organise, build in the opportunity to communicate with staff following the event. This reminds them of the advice they collected and encourages them to make sure they are taking regular action to stay healthy and energetic.
If you'd like further information on setting up amazing wellbeing initiatives, download our guide Successful Corporate Wellbeing Programmes: Howto create a dynamic, energised and engaged workforce and boost business results from our website www.the-tonic.com. Read more on this article...
