conflict with other events
To reinforce seminar messages and to position seminar topics within a larger context, Tiffany teamed with Buck Consultants to create a pocketsize Take 5 resource guide, organized around important life events such as starting a family, paying for college, buying a house Tiffany Keys. The guide was short - about 100 words on a page - so the information would not be intimidating.
The discussion of each life event included tips for proactively responding to the related financial challenges while highlighting relevant company programs that provide support. For example, the discussion about buying a home listed some common issues to consider when evaluating mortgage options, as well as a reminder of the loan feature in the company's 401 (k) plan.
Tiffany also wanted to emphasize the steps each individual should take to protect against loss. So the guide included reminders about the importance of homeowners', renters' and auto insurance to protect an individual's property and the importance of life insurance, wills, beneficiary designations and estate planning to provide financial security for an individual's survivors in the event of his or her death.
Finally, a portion of the guide focused on preparing Tiffany 1837 Square tag key ring company retirement plans, as well as vehicles such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and annuities that individuals can fund independently.
CAMPAIGN PLANNING
As with any communication campaign, a financial education campaign requires careful planning. Here are some steps to follow.
* Make the business case to senior managers and get their support. At Tiff any, because physical wellness was already an integral part of the culture, getting buy-in on extending the focus to financial wellness seemed natural. Be sure to update senior managers, human resource reps and others, as applicable, as you develop the campaign.
* Create a brand, theme or tagline so that people can readily identify the campaign. Tiffany chose the Take 5 theme based on a program offered by one of its vendors. The company modified the theme to fit the campaign, and Buck created the graphic treatment to illustrate it, consistent with Tiffany's distinctive business branding.
* Articulate key messages. What messages will the campaign deliver? In Tiffany's case, discount Tiffany Earrings to help employees connect how taking steps to be physically well extends to taking steps to be financially well.
* Determine campaign timing. Tiffany scheduled its campaign to coincide with 401 (k) Day and the distribution of total compensation statements in September. You may choose a different time, such as April, which is Financial Literacy Month. Be sure to time the campaign so it doesn't conflict with other events - such as annual enrollment - so employees can focus on your message.
* Allow enough planning time. Allow at least three months to determine your topics, invite speakers, set up logistics - such as meeting rooms and Webinars - and create support materials.
* Provide for the different ways people learn. Plan to deliver your messages through various media - print, electronic and live.
* Define success measures. How will you know if the campaign is a success? Eliciting feedback from employees will help you assess the campaign's effectiveness and determine future topics and media.