As Oprah Winfrey once said, “Great communication begins with connection.”
And as the Director of Benefits & Rewards Communication at Gallagher, that’s a big part of what Maddison Grigsby does day-to-day. According to Gartner, 82% of employees say it’s important for their organization to see them as a whole person, not just an employee. And while there are a lot of factors that go into making employees feel a sense of belonging, communication plays a big part.
Maddison is joining us for an insightful session at Camp Engage 2023 where she’ll share ideas on how to create an effective and inclusive benefits communication plan. Ahead of her session, we asked her a few questions so we could learn more about her approach.
Name: Maddison Grigsby
Title: Director, Benefits & Rewards Communication
Company: Gallagher
Preferred pronouns: She/her
Where can we find you online? LinkedIn
What 3 things would you bring on a camping trip?
My dog, SNACKS, and probably a starter log…
Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at Gallagher.
I work with clients to make their employee experience—from hire to retire and each moment in between—an experience that is impactful and transformational both in the immediate and in the future. When this happens, the organization changes from the inside out.
What gets you up in the morning? What’s your favorite thing about your job?
Usually, my rescue dog and the motivation for coffee. But work-wise, I love fusing creativity, problem-solving, and personal relationships together to help individuals and organizations thrive.
What are you prioritizing this year when it comes to helping employees choose, use, and engage with their benefits?
Make benefit communications year-round. Only communicating during OE should be a thing of the past. Make it relevant and evergreen.
What’s your top piece of advice for HR professionals you’d like to share when it comes to open enrollment?
You’ve got eight seconds to engage your audience before you lose them…communicate with simplicity and with a human tone of voice!
Is there anything you think benefits professionals are missing or should be focusing on more?
Really consider whether or not you need a benefit guide. Is there an easier and less cumbersome way to communicate about the benefits value? Think digital. Think one-stop-shop. Think user-friendly.
What are you looking forward to at Camp Engage 2023?
Networking and getting to know other passionate professionals in the field.
What’s your favorite summer activity?
Evening walks and margaritas poolside!
Do you have a story about how ALEX has helped you that you’d like to share?
I remember my first “real” job and applying for benefits. I was so overwhelmed, but this little cartoon character “ALEX” guy really helped walk me through it. I’m thankful for that! 😄
