Communicating the full value of Total Rewards can be a complex challenge for HR executives. Compensation, stock plans and bonuses often take center stage, but there is much more in the wings: health plans, retirement savings, wellness programs, and career development opportunities. Together, these benefits are designed to attract, engage, and retain talent. Unfortunately, many employees fail to understand or appreciate their Total Rewards package fully. Whiteboard explainer videos solve this problem by simplifying communication and enhancing understanding.
Bridge the Comprehension Gap with Visual Storytelling
One of the biggest hurdles in Total Rewards communication is making complex information clear and engaging. Employees often struggle to understand the benefit and application of retirement plans, flexible spending accounts, or mental health resources. Traditional methods, such as brochures or email summaries, require “mental self-assembly” and often fall short in capturing attention or conveying the full picture.
Whiteboard videos use dynamic visuals to simplify complex concepts. For example, instead of listing the features of a retirement plan, a whiteboard video could visually demonstrate how contributions grow over time to support long-term financial goals. Employees retain more information when it’s presented visually and are more likely to act when they understand the benefit in context.
The research of cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Carmen Simon highlights why whiteboard videos are so effective:
- Directed Focus: As the artist’s hand draws, it guides the viewer’s attention through the unfolding concept. Numbers and bullet points can feel abstract but associating them with visuals improves comprehension and retention.
- Reduced Cognitive Load: The act of watching a drawing develop reduces the strain on working memory, making it easier for the brain to establish learning pathways. Tracking the movement of a drawing also physically engages viewers, keeping their attention.
- Synchrony of Voice and Image: When precise narration aligns with emerging visuals, the brain releases dopamine—a reward chemical—as it connects the audio and visual information.
- Actionable Understanding: Once foundational concepts, such as wellness programs or flexible spending accounts, are visually established employees see their relevance and feel empowered to act.
Convey Benefits in the Context of Career Stage
Every employee’s journey is unique, and their understanding of Total Rewards will vary based on their career stage, role, and personal goals. A one-size-fits-all approach no longer connects. Whiteboard explainer videos allow messages to be tailored for different employee segments, ensuring the information resonates with their specific needs.
For instance, new hires might benefit from a video focusing on onboarding benefits like health plans and flexible spending accounts. Seasoned managers might prefer a video emphasizing performance bonuses and leadership development programs. Employees nearing retirement would appreciate targeted explanations of pension plans and savings strategies. This personalization ensures that each group receives relevant information that they can share with family members who often influence benefit decisions.
Benefit Engagement Drives Employee Retention
Effective Total Rewards communication goes beyond delivering information—it strengthens employee loyalty and retention. Employees are more likely to stay with a company when they see how their benefits align with personal values and career aspirations. Whiteboard videos excel at demonstrating this alignment.
By visually aligning rewards with an employee’s career, whiteboard videos help employees literally see the bigger picture. For example, a video might follow an employee’s journey from their first day to their retirement party, highlighting key milestones and corresponding benefits like tuition reimbursement, stock options, or retirement savings. This storytelling approach fosters a stronger emotional connection to the organization and doubles as a powerful recruiting tool.
Leverage Data for Continuous Improvement
Whiteboard explainer videos also offer a unique opportunity to gather valuable data on employee engagement. By using a Learning Management System (LMS), HR teams can track video completion rates, click-throughs, and feedback surveys. These metrics provide insights into which aspects of the Total Rewards package resonate most with employees and where additional clarity is needed.
Start small by introducing whiteboard videos for high-impact areas, such as a new wellness initiative or updated health plan. Measure engagement through pre- and post-video assessments or interactive exercises embedded within the video. As you collect data, refine your messaging and expand the use of whiteboard videos to other Total Rewards areas. This feedback loop ensures your communication strategy evolves alongside employee needs, delivering greater value over time.
Tell a Story That Sticks
Ultimately, Total Rewards plays a critical role in attracting and retaining top talent, but only if employees understand and appreciate them. Whiteboard explainer videos harness the power of visual storytelling to simplify complex information, fostering a deeper connection between employees and their benefits. When employees see the relevance of their Total Rewards, they’re more likely to engage with and value the offerings.
Whiteboard video communications inform and inspire. Use them to build a stronger, more committed workforce—and a Total Rewards strategy that truly sticks.
Authored by Glenn Gautier, Co-Founder,