The Costs Of Obesity In The Workplace

Obesity in the workplace affects several things that ultimately affect the business' bottom line.Because of obesity's link to a multitude of health problems including diabetes, stroke and the number one killer in America - heart disease, the number of people who are affected by obesity in a specific workplace can cause health insurance premiums to increase, especially when one or more person starts making claims against the insurance.Obesity may require that the company make certain accommodations so that the person is capable of doing his or her job with a minimum of discomfort, and it can affect that person's self-esteem and energy, which are important into today's fast paced, ever-changing world.
Health insurance premiums have increased dramatically over the last ten years, and every year brings a new increase that companies and employees cannot afford.Yet, the consequences of not having health insurance are so horrible that to be without it is akin to sentencing someone to bankruptcy and inferior medical care.No matter how many complaints there are against the insurance companies and the way they do business, having insurance is still better than the alternative when it comes to needing medical care.

The best way to protect against needing medical care is to be healthy, and while genes may contribute to certain health issues, a majority of the health problems facing America today are due to lifestyle and eating habits, which can be changed with the right motivation.Obesity and its related diseases can be combatted with a change in activity level and eating habits.A business that is interested in keeping health premiums low can start a wellness program that can include education on diet and exercise as well as provide opportunities to exercise.A lunch walking group is a great idea. Eliminating the unhealthy snacks in the vending machine and cafeteria can help people make better choices about what they choose to eat.
Every company wants to have the most productive employees possible.For larger employees, this may mean purchasing larger chairs and desks to accommodate their girths.While this may not be the best solution, it is one that helps them to accomplish their jobs and to be comfortable doing so.These extra expenses are sometimes things that a company can ill afford, but when weighed against company morale and employee productivity, the company may find it a good idea to make sure that every employee has ergonomically correct work space availability.It doesn't make sense to hire someone and not give him or her the tools that are needed to do the job.
For those in sales positions, and nowadays that is everyone, obesity can lead to a decline in energy and self-esteem.Both of these qualities are critical for good sales people.Customers do not want to deal with a person who is sad or depressed or who sounds like the sale isn't going to happen so why did the person bother making the call.They want someone who is engaged and excited about what they are selling.The best sales people love what they are selling and are not turned off by a "No."Unfortunately, those who have a bad self-image because of a weight issue may also have a hard time when it comes to dealing with rejection.Their job will become harder every time that someone turns them down for any reason.
Obesity in the workplace can have a large effect on a business' bottom line, but business doesn't have to be part of the problem.By implementing a well-supported and funded wellness program, the business can start seeing a tenfold return on its investment in short order.