Open enrollment is a communication project, not a paperwork one
A practical way to plan the window around what employees need to hear, when, and how often, so fewer people default into the wrong plan or miss the deadline.
In this guide · 5 sections
01
Helping people make a decision
The forms matter, but the real work of open enrollment is helping people make a decision within a limited window. Start by listing the questions employees are most likely to ask, then build the schedule around answering them.
02
Separate what everyone needs
Separate what everyone needs from what only some employees need. Everyone needs the dates, the available plans, what changed, and where to get help. Smaller groups may need additional guidance based on eligibility or family circumstances.
03
Use more than one channel
A short email can announce the window, a live session can explain choices, and a final reminder can focus only on the action and deadline. Keep the wording consistent across each message.
04
Give managers a simple response
Give managers a simple response for questions they should not answer themselves. Their role is to point employees toward the approved materials and the right contact, not interpret individual coverage.
05
Before the window closes
Before the window closes, review who has not completed an election and use the process allowed by your systems and plan rules. Afterward, record the questions that came up so next year starts with better material.
