Employees are driving the current paradigm shift in the workplace. The Great Resignation has demonstrated the inefficiencies of the conventional model of work, the inadequacies of existing workplace wellness programs, and the burden of work-related stress. Now more than ever, the need for viable workplace wellbeing and health structures has arisen; workers now place a premium on their health and safety, and they want their employers to do the same.
Therefore, one factor that will distinguish organizations in the post-pandemic era is having excellent skills in building corporate wellness structures. The Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist (CCWS) Program, designed by the Corporate Health & Wellness Association, offers this and more, providing up-to-date training and skills in corporate wellness strategies in line with global best practices.
The Corporate Wellness Magazine sat with a recent graduate of the CCWS program, Carol R. Battle to talk about current trends in corporate wellness and how the specialist course has redefined her perspective on workplace wellness. Carol works for the State of North Carolina as the Health/Wellness, Recognition, and Awards Manager.
Q: How important is well-being to you personally?
I put a lot of emphasis on my health and personal well-being. Your health is so important in regards to enjoying life to its fullest.
Q: What change have you noticed over the last year with corporate wellness?
With the COVID-19 pandemic and all the restrictions on gyms, in-person workout classes, masking, and social distancing, the use of virtual classes has really successfully evolved. In many cases, they are also free of charge, which is a huge benefit to many of our state employees.
Q: Where do you see the industry headed?
I think that one valuable lesson to be learned from the pandemic is that there is a place for both in-person and virtual learning. Virtual offerings also provide a useful means of expanding programs to reach more individuals.
Q: What are the most important focus areas for you in corporate wellness for the upcoming year?
I inherited an existing program that focuses mainly on physical wellness. I would like to expand the Worksite Wellness program to include mental and behavioral health, as well as financial health and wellbeing. Another aspect I am interested in addressing is promoting healthy aging.
Q: If you could give our readers one piece of advice in regards to wellness programs what would it be?
Be sure to keep your leadership involved and committed to the program. You need their support to really keep your program going strong. If you have access to a wellness program, it is up to you to sign up and participate, so take advantage of any wellness initiatives you have access to. There is always room to learn more and improve what you are already doing.
Q: Why did you go through the Certified Corporate Wellness Specialist program?
I asked to take the CCWS program knowing that the resources I would have access to and the knowledge I would gain would all help me in advancing the worksite wellness program for the State of North Carolina government employees.
What was the most valuable takeaway of the Corporate Wellness Certification program for you?
I enjoyed the entire program, in particular, how it covers not just physical health, but also the entire “wellness” spectrum.
