There is little debate anymore over whether the Great Resignation is real or not. The evidence is all around us. Millions of people have quit their jobs over the last 14 months. Some have done so in the hope of finding a better opportunity elsewhere.
The wake of the Great Resignation is affecting employers and employees a like, but how can benefits brokers help? Understanding how a client’s employees are affected by the workforce shortages is a great place to start. But it’s just as important to see your role as a benefits broker as one of support for your clients.
4 Ways Employees Are Being Affected
A Society of Human Resource Management survey published in late 2021 demonstrates the severity of the problem. Employees left behind by the Great Resignation are facing more stress than ever before. The survey specifically mentions four things:
- Added Responsibility – Some 52% of the survey respondents said they had to take on added responsibilities due to staffing shortages. Someone has to do the work, and it is usually those left behind when workers resign.
- Struggles with Work – Added responsibilities have led to some 30% of the respondents struggling to get their work done. There is too much work and not enough time in the day to do it. For some, this means longer hours.
- Loyalty Questions – Employers say they are doing everything in their power to beef up staffing, but not every employee sees that effort.
- Questioning Salary – All of this has led to 55% of the surveyed employees questioning whether their salaries are high enough. Many seriously wonder if the amount they are being paid is truly commensurate with the work they are doing.
The Great Resignation is not doing anything to help employees left behind. It is making life more difficult for them on a day-to-day basis. So how can employers help? More importantly, what can you do to help?
Your Role as a Broker
Your role as a benefits broker is not limited to selling products and overseeing open enrollment. Your role also includes providing the kind of consultation and support your clients need to thrive in all sorts of conditions. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate to your clients that you are working with them to advance their interests.
Over the next six to 12 months, make a concerted effort to:
- Check in with your employer groups to ask them how resignations are impacting their teams and
- businesses.
- Work with a general agency who can help you bring growth strategies to your employer groups.
- Offer your clients solid ideas on how a wider array of benefit options might help with recruitment and retention.
You are an invaluable resource to each and every one of your clients. You have the industry knowledge and tools needed to help them make the most of their benefits packages. Utilize your experience and expertise to help your clients overcome some of the problems being caused by the Great Resignation.
Likewise, we want to be your number one resource for products, information, technology, and support. As a general agency, our main priority is your success. Now is the time for us to work together to ensure that your clients get all the support they need.