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. Kathy Slovin from Fidelity Investments emphasized the need for employers to engage these employees by collaborating with benefits providers, using in-person communication, and leveraging frontline managers. A study presented by David John from AARP Public Policy Institute revealed that deskless workers are frequently overlooked in financial wellness programs, which are typically digital and desktop-oriented. The study found that these workers, often with lower incomes and education levels, face barriers such as confidentiality concerns and lack of relevant content.
Why It's Important?
The focus on deskless workers is crucial as they represent a significant portion of the workforce yet often lack access to essential financial wellness resources. This oversight can lead to financial insecurity among these workers, who may already be struggling with limited liquid assets and insufficient short-term and long-term financial planning. By addressing these gaps, employers can improve the financial well-being of their deskless employees, potentially leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity. The study suggests that tailored communication methods, such as emails, workplace posters, and mobile videos, could effectively engage these workers, ensuring they receive the support they need.
What's Next?
Employers are encouraged to reassess their benefits communication strategies to better include deskless workers. This may involve developing more inclusive financial wellness programs that consider the unique challenges faced by these employees. Additionally, there may be a push for more research and policy development to support this segment of the workforce, ensuring they have equal access to financial education and resources. Companies might also explore partnerships with benefits providers to create more accessible and relevant content for deskless workers.
