A number of organizations I have recently spoken to, have appointed Wellness Champions, (also known as Wellness Ambassadors). However, most of these organizations have also expressed that their Wellness Champions / Ambassadors are not quite functional.
A functional Wellness Champion Network is important to support and ensure the success of workplace wellness efforts. The power of social connections and networks is undeniable – especially when it comes to health improvement, changing health behaviors, social connections and support. Research has shown that people are influenced by the health status and behaviors – such as good nutrition, exercise, smoking and an overall healthy lifestyle – of their friends, family and coworkers.
A wellness champion network is a group of employees who work together to improve the health and culture of the workplace as part of the workplace wellness program, by socially connecting with others and helping to educate coworkers about program offerings. To companies that have networks in place, their wellness champions are crucial to how program information is communicated and the level of acceptance it receives from employees.
Research by StayWell, a health engagement firm, has shown promising connections between the use of wellness champion networks as a part of organizational culture and wellness program outcomes.
What does it take to be a Wellness Champion?
The one essential characteristic for a Wellness Champion is a passion for good health. Whether champions aim to lose weight, mange their diabetes, become more active or stop smoking, or if they have already achieved their health goals, champions need to believe in the value of health improvement and be willing to support the benefits of corporate wellness programs – and to share both their passion and experiences with others. Champions “Walk the Talk” and strive to be positive health role models to their peers.
Seek out employees who are passionate, have social skills and have role model qualities as your Wellness Champions
What are the roles and responsibilities?
This is closely tied to the goals and objectives employers hope to achieve. For example tasking the wellness champions to help improve awareness of wellness programs and increasing engagement in health education opportunities amongst the employees can help create or enhance a culture of health at the workplace, as well as improve program participation. In addition, these champions can be responsible for collaboration, communication and providing feedback regarding program implementation and offerings.
It is important to ensure that champions are provided clear expectations with an effective internal communication system and reporting metrics such as:
- Program participation rates
- Employee satisfaction
- Changing cultural norms
Once you establish a wellness champion network, it is essential to nurture it so that the team can continue to support your corporate health initiatives.