Open enrollment is one of the busiest times of the year for HR teams. Between answering questions, sending reminders, and helping employees make important benefits decisions, HR managers often find th...
HR Administration
|
5 min read
Confessions of an HR Manager During Open Enrollment Season
Confessions of an HR Manager During Open Enrollment Season
4:29
Open enrollment is one of the busiest times of the year for HR teams. Between answering questions, sending reminders, and helping employees make important benefits decisions, HR managers often find themselves repeating the same advice year after year.
In the spirit of open enrollment season, we’re sharing a few “confessions” from HR managers, along with practical tips employees can use to make more informed benefits decisions.
Confession #1: I've Sent Five Reminder Emails, Three Teams Messages, and Held Two Meetings...and Someone Will Still Ask When Enrollment Ends
If there’s one thing HR professionals wish employees would remember, it’s this:
The open enrollment deadline is a deadline.
Missing it could mean:
- Losing the opportunity to make changes to your coverage
- Missing out on voluntary benefits
- Being locked into your current elections for another year
- Having to wait until a qualifying life event to make updates
What Employees Should Do
- Mark enrollment deadlines on your calendar immediately.
- Don’t wait until the last day to review options.
- Allow time to ask questions and complete required forms.
- Submit elections early to avoid last-minute issues.
If HR sends reminders, they’re not doing it for fun. They’re trying to help you avoid missing important deadlines.
Confession #2: I Can Explain Deductibles All Day, but I Still Get Asked What a Deductible Is
Open enrollment isn’t just about selecting benefits. It’s about understanding what you’re choosing.
Many employees focus only on the cost of a paycheck deduction without considering:
- Deductibles
- Copays
- Coinsurance
- Out-of-pocket maximums
- Provider networks
These details can significantly impact your healthcare costs and overall financial well-being throughout the year.
What Employees Should Do
Before selecting a plan, ask yourself:
- How often do I visit the doctor?
- Do I take prescription medications regularly?
- Will I need specialists or ongoing treatment?
- What would happen financially if I experienced a major medical event?
Understanding how your benefits work can help you make more informed decisions, better manage healthcare costs, and potentially avoid unexpected expenses later.
Confession #3: My Favorite Employee Is the One Who Actually Reads the Benefits Guide
Every year, many employees simply select the same benefits they had last year without reviewing what’s changed.
But benefit plans often evolve.
You may find:
- New plan options
- Updated premiums
- Coverage enhancements
- New voluntary benefits
- Additional wellness resources
What Employees Should Do
Take time to review:
- Your benefits guide
- Enrollment materials
- Plan comparisons
- Any announcements from HR
Consider whether your current elections still fit your life today.
Ask yourself:
- Did I get married?
- Did I have a child?
- Have my healthcare needs changed?
- Am I planning for retirement differently?
- Have my financial priorities shifted?
What worked last year may not be your best option this year.
Confession #4: I Wish Employees Would Think About Benefits Before They Need Them
One of the most common HR frustrations is hearing:
“I didn’t realize I had that coverage.”
Unfortunately, employees often discover gaps in their benefits only after a medical issue, accident, illness, or unexpected life event occurs.
Benefits are designed to provide protection before the unexpected happens.
What Employees Should Do
During open enrollment, spend a few minutes understanding:
- What each benefit covers
- Coverage limits
- Eligibility requirements
- Filing procedures
- Available support resources
Think of benefits as part of your overall financial protection strategy, not just a box to check once a year.
Being informed today can help reduce stress tomorrow.
Confession #5: The Benefits Package Doesn't End with Health Insurance
When employees hear “open enrollment,” most immediately think about medical coverage.
But organizations offer a much broader package of benefits that often go underutilized.
Look Beyond Health Insurance
Your benefits package may include:
- Wellness programs
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources
- Retirement plans
- Financial wellness tools
- Voluntary benefits
Many organizations offer more resources than employees realize.
What Employees Should Do
Take a few minutes to explore everything available.
You may discover resources that can help:
- Improve your financial wellness
- Support your well-being
- Prepare for retirement
- Protect your family
Many employees are surprised by the value available beyond their medical coverage.
Final Thoughts: Your HR Team Wants You to Succeed
Open enrollment may be one of the busiest times of the year for HR professionals, but their goal is simple: helping employees make informed benefits decisions.
This year, take advantage of the resources available to you:
- Read the benefits guide
- Attend benefits meetings or educational sessions
- Ask questions
- Review your options carefully
- Enroll before the deadline
Your future self and your HR team will thank you.
About SWBC’s Employee Benefits Consulting Group
Navigating employee benefits can be complex, especially during open enrollment. SWBC's Employee Benefits Consulting Group helps organizations simplify benefits administration, improve employee understanding, and build benefits strategies that support both employees and business goals. Learn more about how a proactive approach to benefits education can drive engagement and help employees make informed decisions year-round.
Related Categories
HR AdministrationConnor Roy
Connor Roy is Vice President of SWBC’s Employee Benefits Consulting Group, where he helps employers design strategic benefits programs that attract, retain, and support their workforce. Since joining SWBC in 2020, he has become a trusted advisor to organizations of all sizes, delivering innovative solutions that address the evolving challenges of employee benefits and maximize the value of their investments. Recognized for his consultative approach and forward-thinking perspective, Connor is a respected voice in the employee benefits industry. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Lubbock Christian University and a Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University. Active in the community, he has served on several local boards, including the Metro SA Chamber of Commerce.
Let Us Know What You Thought about this Post.
Put your Comment Below.