Boost your retention efforts with focused EVPs

In today’s competitive business landscape, attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for the success of any company. One way organizations do this is to establish a compelling Employee Value Proposition (EVP). An EVP is a unique set of offerings, benefits, and opportunities that an employer provides to its employees in exchange for their skills, expertise, and commitment. Through our development of WEX’s EVP, we have learned key tips and strategies for EVP success. 

What is an EVP 

An EVP encompasses the total value an employee receives from their employment experience, including compensation, benefits, career development, work-life balance, company culture, and more. It represents the value proposition an organization presents to both current and prospective employees, highlighting what differentiates it from other employers. 

EVP as a retention tool

Sherry Olson, who is vice president of global employee experience at WEX, said on our Benefits podcast that EVPs are “one of the best ways to retain and attract workers.” Firstly, it helps attract and retain high-performing employees by providing a clear understanding of the unique benefits and opportunities available within the organization. When employees perceive the value of what they receive, they are more likely to stay loyal and engaged. 

Secondly, an EVP fosters a positive company culture, aligning employee expectations with organizational values and goals. It creates a sense of belonging and purpose, enhancing employee satisfaction and reducing turnover rates.

Foundation of an EVP

Building an effective EVP requires a comprehensive understanding of the organization’s culture, values, and strategic objectives. Here are the some key steps to establish the foundation of an EVP:

• Research and analysis: Conduct internal and external research to identify the organization’s strengths, weaknesses, market positioning, and the expectations and needs of current and potential employees. An important question Olson recommends asking is, “What are our missions and values?” Some helpful ways to gather feedback is through surveys, interviews, and focus groups. 
• Value identification: Determine the unique value your organization offers to employees. Consider factors such as compensation, benefits, career development opportunities, work environment, company values, and purpose. Highlight aspects that set your organization apart from competitors.
• Alignment with employer brand: Ensure that the EVP aligns with the organization’s employer brand. Consistency between external messaging and internal experiences is vital for building trust and credibility.

Process of building an EVP

Once the foundation of an EVP is established, the following steps can help guide you in building a compelling EVP:

• Articulate the EVP: Develop a clear and concise EVP statement that effectively communicates the value proposition to employees. Use compelling language and emphasize the benefits and opportunities employees can expect. Olson recommends, “Step back and say, ‘Is it representing the voice of the organization and where we want to go in the future?’ ”
• Develop key messages: Craft key messages that resonate with the target audience and highlight the unique aspects of the EVP. These messages should be used consistently in all internal and external communications.
• Integrate EVP into HR practices: Align HR practices, policies, and programs with the EVP to ensure a consistent employee experience. It is key for your EVP to embed “into everything you do.” This includes recruitment, onboarding, performance management, learning and development, and rewards and recognition.
• Employee communication and engagement: Effectively communicate the EVP to employees through various channels, such as company intranet, town hall meetings, newsletters, and social media platforms while also highlighting leaders in your company. “Don’t underestimate the need for leadership buy-in,” Olson said. Encourage employee feedback and engagement to continually refine and improve the EVP.

Success with an EVP

So how do you know your EVP is a compelling success? By analyzing employee retention, it is possible to see direct effects of your EVP! Sherry Olson put it perfectly in our newest Benefits episode, “Be mindful of wants and needs… remember progress over perfection”. 

Make sure to check out our newest podcast episode covering all things EVPs!

The information in this blog post is for educational purposes only. It is not legal or tax advice. For legal or tax advice, you should consult your own legal counsel, tax and investment advisers. 

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