Preparing for Open Enrollment takes time, planning, and precision. But no matter how well you’ve negotiated rates or expanded your offerings, it won’t matter if employees don’t understand what’s available to them.
That’s where communication comes in.
Clear, accessible, and timely communication is what turns your OE strategy from a logistical rollout into a meaningful employee experience. When it’s done right, it can help reduce confusion, boost participation, and drive real value — both for employees and your organization.
When employees don’t understand their benefits, everyone loses
Employee benefits can be confusing — and most employers know it. Research from Harvard Business Review found that less than half of employers believe their employees can confidently choose the best plans for their needs. Even fewer believe their workforce understands what care actually costs or how to evaluate quality.
The consequences? Underused benefits, unnecessary costs, and missed opportunities to engage and retain top talent.
When employees have clarity around their options, they’re more likely to enroll in the right coverage, make informed decisions, and see the full value of what’s being offered. That understanding translates into trust, appreciation, and often, better retention.
Where traditional approaches fall short
Think about the last time you handed out a printed benefits guide or hosted a lunch-and-learn. Did it actually move the needle?
For many employees, terms like “deductible” and “coinsurance” may as well be in a different language. Traditional formats like pamphlets and in-person meetings rarely deliver the engagement needed to drive real understanding.
To truly support your employees during OE, communication needs to be approachable, interactive, and available when and where they need it.
3 ways to elevate your benefits communication strategy
Offer built-in decision support
Best-of-breed benefits technology can do more than just host plan documents. Look for a platform with built-in decision support tools that can help employees compare plans side by side, define unfamiliar terms, and calculate potential out-of-pocket costs based on their specific needs.
Even better? Some platforms include recommendation engines that ask employees a few simple questions about their household, financial situation, and preferences — then suggest a best-fit plan. This makes it easier for employees to choose coverage confidently without needing constant HR support.
Make benefits information available on demand
Employees shouldn’t have to be at their desk to learn about or enroll in benefits. A mobile-responsive benefits platform ensures that they can access information from wherever they are (at home, on the go, or with family members who may be helping make decisions).
When employees can review options on their own time, in a format that’s easy to navigate, they’re more likely to feel confident in their selections.
Provide access to expert guidance
Sometimes, employees just want to talk to a real person. Partnering with a benefits call center can give them exactly that — direct access to licensed professionals who can answer questions, explain coverage, and walk them through their options.
Whether it’s a phone call, email, or scheduled one-on-one session, this kind of personalized support can be a game-changer for employees who feel overwhelmed by the enrollment process.
Better communication = better outcomes
Open Enrollment is more than a deadline. It’s a chance to connect with your workforce, build trust, and reinforce the value of your benefits investment.
By modernizing your approach to benefits communication — with the right tools, technology, and support — you can help employees make informed decisions and get the most out of their coverage. In return, your organization will benefit from a more engaged, informed, and satisfied workforce.
