What's Happening?
A recent discussion at the Employee Benefit Research Institute Financial Well-being Symposium highlighted the challenges faced by 'deskless' workers in accessing workplace benefits. These workers, who make up 70% to 80% of the global workforce, include
roles such as safety personnel, healthcare workers, and construction workers. They often have limited access to technology during work hours, irregular schedules, and no centralized office location. The symposium emphasized the need for employers to engage these workers through in-person communication, incentives, and leveraging frontline managers. A study presented by David John from the AARP Public Policy Institute revealed that deskless employees are often overlooked in financial wellness programs, which are typically designed for desktop use. The study found that these workers, particularly those with lower incomes and education levels, expressed a strong interest in financial wellness resources.
Why It's Important?
The challenges faced by deskless workers in accessing workplace benefits have significant implications for their financial well-being. These workers often experience financial insecurity, with limited liquid assets and inadequate short-term and long-term financial planning. The lack of engagement in financial wellness programs can exacerbate these issues, leading to increased financial stress and reduced productivity. Employers who fail to address these challenges may face higher turnover rates and lower employee satisfaction. By improving access to financial wellness resources, employers can help deskless workers manage their finances better, leading to a more stable and motivated workforce.
What's Next?
Employers are encouraged to explore new strategies to engage deskless workers in financial wellness programs. This includes using mobile-friendly resources, offering flexible scheduling for educational sessions, and providing personalized financial advice. Additionally, employers can consider implementing incentives to encourage participation in these programs. As awareness of the unique challenges faced by deskless workers grows, more companies may adopt these strategies to improve employee engagement and retention.
