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W O R K F O R M E / S P R I N G 2 0 2 4 44 W ith unemployment rates continuing to hover at record lows, finding ways to recruit and retain talent can feel like an insurmountable task for our contingency of small businesses here in Maine. Today's workforce is evolving, as are their needs. Employees expect more from their employers and a strong employee benefits package can make or break the overall employee experience. But what is the real impact of a well- rounded employee benefits program? Employees are increasingly seeking more than just standard compensation packages. They want better and more creative offer- ings that encourage personal wellbeing and an enhanced work-life balance. That is exactly where employee benefits can make a difference. Disability insurance Let's first consider leave support — a key driver in employee satisfaction. Life is full of surprises, both exciting and challenging. Whether your employee is welcoming a new child to their family, or battling a cancer diagnosis, empowering them to take the time they need to navigate these major life moments is critical to their wellbeing. At Unum, the most common claims we see are for pregnancies, musculoskeletal disorders, mental health disorders, injuries and cancer. Disability insurance helps your employees during times of need by replacing a portion of their income while they are unable to work. And, by giving them the time they need to tend to these situations on the front end, you may ul- timately see them back in the office or at the job site more quickly. Financial security Next, there is the financial security that employee benefits provide. Life's surprises often come with a hefty price tag. Accord- ing to Bankrate, a majority of Americans say they cannot afford a $1,000 emergency expense. Offering support such as accident, critical illness or hospital indemnity insur- ance can help safeguard your employee's future financial wellbeing. Employee benefits can also provide more than just financial security. There C A R E E R S LEARN MORE: Build the Build the Foundation to Foundation to Your Future Your Future We're here to guide you through the career pathways in construction & transportation - from students, parents, educators, employers, and beyond. A P P R E N T I C E S H I P P R E A P P R E N T I C E S H I P C O N T A C T U S T O D A Y - C O N T A C T U S T O D A Y - team@agcmaine.org or (207)622-4741 B Y C H R I S P Y N E , U N U M How to benefit your business with employee benefits H o w t o P H O T O / U N U M Chris Pyne is executive vice president of group benefits at Unum. He is a Bowdoin College graduate.