Fundamentals of Human Resource Management 6th Edition by Raymond Noe, John Hollenbeck, Barry Gerhart,Patrick Wright

Exercise 23

Social Support for Getting Healthy
One of the big challenges with a wellness program is motivation -especially motivating employees who would benefit the most. Typically, many employees never complete the health assessment used for entering these programs and then even fewer sign up for activities that would improve the health issues identified in the assessment. An important consideration is that wellness programs work best when they are part of an integrated strategy that combines realistic goals with incentives, clear communication, and a supportive culture.
Some of that education and support can come through social-media tools. The knowledge-sharing function of social media readily lends itself to educating employees about health. For example, the site could feature low-fat and low-carb items on the cafeteria menu each week or a page to share ideas for managing stress or working exercise into one's daily routine.
In the area of support, just as employees might use the company's computer network to find colleagues with knowledge, the company could set up Web pages or a Twitter feed for groups with health-related interests such as a group that walks during lunch breaks or a weight-loss challenge group. While the company cannot disclose personal health information, it could reward team successes. For example, employees could form teams and see which team walks the most miles during a challenge period. (For such activities, employers must be sure to offer alternative activities to accommodate employees with disabilities.)
Would you expect participation in wellness programs to be greater if they have a social media component Why or why not