Bensol helps Own Innovation thrive with tailored benefits
By Michele MactaggartKitchener-based Own Innovation, Ontario’s largest intellectual property (IP) consulting group outside of Toronto and Ottawa, has been making significant strides in the Canadian tech sector since its founding just seven years ago. Specializing in IP strategy, leadership, patents, and trademarks, the firm supports high-growth technology companies in leveraging and protecting their intangible assets. Jim Hinton, […]
Arcora Coaching is bridging the gap in mental health support for leaders, fostering healthier teams and more resilient organizations
By Michele MactaggartAs a small business owner, I understand the need for accessible business coaching that focuses on mental health and helps us become better managers. Training in areas like motivating people, having difficult conversations, creating a culture of wellness, and finding balance can be hard to come by or prohibitively expensive. Fortunately, this is changing. Managers […]
What are the best ways to keep my group benefits costs low?
By Michele MactaggartThe recipe for any good business starts with good people, so offering comprehensive employee benefits is key to attracting and retaining the best talent. However, for many small and medium-sized businesses, the costs of benefits can be a major barrier; finding a balance between supporting employees and staying financially sustainable is no small task. Fortunately, […]
How Can I Use My Benefits to Help Prevent Employee Burnout?
By Michele MactaggartSince 2020, an unprecedented 35% of workers have reported feeling chronically exhausted or overwhelmed at work. This surge is linked to long hours, hybrid or remote work challenges, and the lack of proper mental health support. Burnout is a significant issue within the workplace, with chronic stress leading to decreased productivity, high turnover rates, and […]
How Can Small Companies with Just 1 or 2 Employees Get a Good Benefits Plan?
By Letter MSmall businesses play a critical role in Canada’s economy, representing over 98% of all businesses in the country. Yet, many small business owners face challenges in providing their employees with competitive benefits, such as health and dental coverage. Even for micro-companies with just one or two employees, having access to a comprehensive benefits plan can […]
Understanding Self-Funded Health & Dental Benefits: A Comprehensive Guide for Employers
By Michele MactaggartProviding a robust benefits package is crucial for attracting and retaining top talent. However, the cost of offering comprehensive health and dental benefits can be substantial, especially for small to medium-sized businesses, making it difficult to keep up with the competition. Many employers are looking for alternatives that offer more control over costs without sacrificing […]
Cultivating Conversation on Mental Health in the Workplace
By Michele MactaggartWith growing awareness of how mental wellbeing impacts productivity, job satisfaction and overall quality of life, it’s more essential than ever for employers to foster a culture that prioritizes mental health. This involves not only creating mental health-friendly policies, but also encouraging open and honest discussion about mental well-being among employees. “Often, when talking mental […]
Managing Costs: Should You Pass Benefit Premiums on to Your Employees?
By Michele MactaggartManaging costs effectively is crucial for the sustainability and growth of any company. One significant expense that often comes under scrutiny is employee benefits and insurance premiums. Employee benefits, especially health insurance, represent a substantial portion of overall compensation costs. With the continuous rise in healthcare expenses, many businesses find it increasingly difficult to bear […]
At renewal time, should I shop out my plan for the best deal?
By Michele MactaggartThe joys of renewal time; when the temptation to shop around for a new plan can be oh-so-alluring. But before you dive headfirst into the world of comparison shopping, let’s take a moment to consider why sticking to your current plan might actually be the smarter move. First things first, let’s talk stability. Switching benefits […]
How can I lower my costs without reducing coverage for my employees?
By Michele MactaggartOne of biggest challenges in finding a benefits plan for an SME is the concept of cost vs. functionality. No two people, let alone an entire workforce, are living the same life, facing the same challenges, or experiencing the same hardships at one time; so how can you as an employer get the most functionality […]
