Workplace Options News: Extra Training May Boost Productivity, Ease Stress in Uncertain Times

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Extra Training May Boost Productivity, Ease Stress in Uncertain Times

Survey Reveals Growing Interest in Employer-Sponsored Training Programs

Contact:
Christine Hall
chall@capstrat.com
919-882-1998

02 December 2008 – Raleigh, NC – A national survey of working adults commissioned by Workplace Options (WPO), the largest provider of work-life employee benefits in America, revealed a growing interest in training programs to sharpen their professional skills, manage money and stress and promote personal wellness. This trend reflects the growing importance and benefits of managing work-life issues, especially in the challenging economic climate.

Nearly half of the employees surveyed said they would be interested in employer-sponsored training for work-life programs focusing on financial management, wellness and stress management. More than three-quarters of respondents said they would participate in the training if offered free of charge. Professional development is an even more popular prospect, especially in uncertain economic times when employees may be worried about their jobs and competitiveness in the contracting marketplace. Eighty-eight percent of respondents said they would attend employer-sponsored professional development training. Convenience is also a motivating factor when considering training programs. Seventy-one percent of employees said they would be willing to participate in training programs during unpaid time, including their lunch hour or after work hours. WPO’s evaluations further reveal the benefits of training sessions. In 2008, 96 percent of respondents said that attending training was a valuable use of their time, and 82 percent reported reduced stress levels.

During the uncertain economic times, many workers are stressed and distracted on the job as they struggle to manage personal and financial worries. This can cut into productivity, accuracy and even health, contribute to absenteeism and affecting the bottom line. Employers are recognizing the growing value of work-life services, including training programs, to drive productivity, boost morale and enhance competitiveness in the marketplace. Work-life training programs, provided by WPO, include tools that help employees address ever-changing workplace challenges and promote productive, positive and resilient work environments. WPO’s training modules cover 135 topics, including parenting, financial management, aging and wellness, and can be customized to suit each work environment. Qualified trainers are available for seminars during or after work hours, and can even facilitate sessions through online Webinars.

“A well-balanced, healthy lifestyle and sharpened professional skills mean more satisfaction, productivity and effectiveness both at home and on the job,” says Alan King, president of Workplace Options. “During these tough times, personal and professional training opportunities empower employees by teaching them how to help themselves, manage their time, recognize their priorities and deal with stress. For employers and employees alike, these seminars are a win-win opportunity and a proactive solution.”

The national survey, conducted by the North Carolina firm of Public Policy Polling on Nov. 15-18, polled 725 working Americans. The survey has a margin of error of ± 3.7%.

About Workplace Options

Workplace Options helps employees balance their work, family and personal life in order to make their lives healthier, easier and more productive. The company's world-class employee support and work-life services provide information, resources, referrals and consultation on a variety of issues ranging from dependent care, legal and financial issues to stress management and wellness.

Drawing from an international network of credentialed providers and professionals, Workplace Options is the world's largest integrated employee support services and work-life provider. Service centers in Raleigh. N.C., London, Toronto and Dublin support more than 32 million employees in 20,000 organizations, across 170 countries. To learn more, visit www.workplaceoptions.com.