Open enrollment season can be a tricky time of year, especially for employees. Of course employers want their employees to understand their benefit options, but are they doing a good job communicating those options?

Jocelyn Meyers, People & Culture, Business Partner of ZayZoon says its important to engage with employees early, leverage different communication channels, make information clear and concise, and leverage middle managers.

What are some common communication challenges or pitfalls that occur during open enrollment season?

The open enrollment period can be stressful and chaotic for both HR teams and employees. However, simple and effective communication can help mitigate common challenges during this period. One of the most significant communication pitfalls is the disconnect that occurs between what HR assumes employees know about their benefit options and what they actually know. If an HR leader assumes employees have prior knowledge of the enrollment process and information about the specific benefits an organization offers, it can lead to uninformed decisions among employees. What may seem like common sense, or old news to an HR expert, may be overwhelming and confusing to an employee.