Companies that invest in employee assistance programs can reap a variety of rewards. From improved employee productivity to better hiring prospects, the benefits of an EAP are clear. An employee assistance program (EAP) is a counseling and consulting service that helps employees resolve issues that affect their work. It can be accessed through online platforms, toll-free numbers, or as part of an employee benefit package.
EAPs can help reduce the need for expensive healthcare requests and disability, as well as reduce absences and employee turnover. This, in turn, supports employer results. Companies that market their EAPs are also better able to attract new, more qualified employees. Employees who understand that their company actively supports and encourages them to seek help and improve themselves will increase their confidence in the company.
This can help them become more comfortable with workplace issues related to mental health, exhaustion, stress, loss and illness. Employee assistance programs provide an online platform where employees can log in and access various podcasts, videos and interactive programs according to their needs. This dramatically reduces the amount of time a worker spends on issues that affect other areas of their life. It also helps create a more productive team environment and reduces wear and tear on other employees working on the same project.
The Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy recognizes the validity of employee assistance programs. The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) states that EAPs aim to help employees manage and resolve any psychological and emotional problems that may be affecting employee performance in the workplace. The Association of Employee Assistance Professionals (EAPA) of Australia and LifeWorks have found that the application of EAPs in workplaces in 28 countries has seen a level of improvement of 16% in terms of absenteeism, presenteeism or work due to illness, satisfaction with life, difficulties labor and employees' commitment. Even if companies offer an appropriate employee assistance program, it can become a failure if employees don't take advantage of the program. Promoting the program throughout the year also helps encourage discussions about the EAP between employees and the company.
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