Benefits brokers winning with online video

According to comScore, 78 million Americans watched more than 33 billion online videos in February 2013, an 800% increase from just six years ago.

For employee benefits brokers, online video is now reaching into employee benefits communication and making a real difference in how they can compete, win and improve client satisfaction.

Four benefits brokers recently shared how using video and the Video Benefits Meeting platform has made a difference in their business. Here’s some of what they had to say:

“It’s part of our everyday discussion”

Scott Shapard, Managing Director of Worksite Benefits at Higginbotham & Associates in Ft. Worth, Texas says online video has been “a tremendous win” and played a role in securing an $80,000 annual commission on a new group benefits client.

“The reaction from HR people we have presented to has been very positive. You can just see the relief on their faces when we show this tool. It’s another great value we can offer,” says Shapard.

When a client used video for the first time to educate employees and spouses about their HSA program, Shapard was pleased with the response. “Spouses sent me email thanking me for putting the videos together for them. They said they now understood what they had and how to use it. More people maxed out the HSA because they understood it.”

“Video Benefits Meeting is another arrow in our quiver. Clients use it like an Intranet with all their forms, links, plan summaries, compliance documents, and educational videos. It’s become part of our communication strategy.”

“Our people are starting to include Video Benefits Meeting as part of their everyday discussion during renewals and with prospects. Our people ‘get it’ now. In the beginning when this was new to our team, I said to them, “Just try it once and you will get thanked by your employer for doing it. It will make you want to do it for everyone.”

“Communication is key”

Marzena Patent, Marketing Coordinator for Benefit Express, a benefits administration firm, in Chicago, reports the firm promotes and uses video capability in everything from flyers, blogs, newsletters, in-person demos, online enrollment and their corporate website.

“Communication is key. People are confused about what’s being offered and what actions they need to take. Employees are being asked to participate in more of the decision making and shopping decisions relative to their benefits. Video increases the range of capabilities we can offer, and video is a big, hot topic,” says Patent.

She continues, “We’ve seen our clients use video in all parts of the communication and enrollment process. We’ve seen a huge increase in demand for this type of solution.”

“Video provides the information employees need right at their fingertips. Typical written plan information is long, cumbersome and difficult to digest. Videos make important benefits messages easier to comprehend.”

“A game-changing tool”

Blue Back, LLC is a strategic employee benefits and risk management firm in Hartford, CT.

Eric Thompson, the firm’s Principal, has experienced the advantages of bringing video communication and education capabilities to clients and prospects.

After being awarded the business for a 150 employee company, Thompson shared the video communication capability from Video Benefits Guy with the new client and they were “blown away.”

Previously, the former broker used “a static online benefit website from one of the largest CRM providers in the country.” Thompson, understanding the value of Video Benefits Guy, replaced the current site without charging the client. According to Thompson, “feedback from the employees (located in over 15 states) was tremendous and now we demonstrate Video Benefits in every prospect meeting.”

“We made the right decision,” the client said to Thompson during open enrollment. “You know how to solve problems better than the national firms.”

“The ease of use is phenomenal and it’s cost effective,” continued Thompson. “We can customize the solution with video content, forms, documents, SPD wraps, ERISA compliance materials – it’s a huge relief for clients.” He concluded, “With Video Benefits Guy we now enter every prospect meeting with a game-changing tool in our tool box.”

“We love it. Our clients love it”

Jon Braddock is CEO of ISG Advisors in Madison, Wisconsin. The firm uses video capability to strengthen its competitiveness, existing client relationships and retention. ISG promotes video capability as its eBin solution, or Electronic Benefits Information Network.

In offering video capabilities, Braddock reports “Every client says, ‘that’s awesome, what’s it gonna cost?’ Clients are amazed we have not charged a dime. But they know if they leave us, we’re going to turn it off.”

ISG has launched dozens of eBin Video Benefits Meeting sites. Common uses are for open enrollment, new hire orientation, hosting certificates and compliance documents, easy access to carrier resources, and video wellness education.

“Spouses at home can access video education to learn and understand benefits options to help in decision making,” says Braddock.

“It’s an extra value-add that’s different,” states Braddock. Video Benefits Meeting is so intuitive, simple…it explains things. We love it. Our clients love it.”

Special program for benefits brokers – Click here to learn more!

178 million Americans watched more than 33 billion videos in February 2013 in the US alone (source: comScore, view amazing online video stats).

• You can add video capability right now to enhance your competitiveness
• Get ready for Fall 2013 Open Enrollment season
• Take your benefits communication to the next level
• Instantly add video capability to your web-based platforms
• Great for online enrollment systems, websites, blogs, and more
• Simple, easy, fast “copy and paste” to add video content (see for yourself in the screencast below)
  
  

  Why add video capability? Learn more in less than 90 seconds!

  How to add video? See for yourself in this screencast!

  Ready for more information? Click here to contact us (ask about test embed code!)

  

Check out our complete Video Title List here

View samples from the Video Benefits Library here

Telemedicine services can resolve many of the most common reasons for a trip to the doctor – without having to visit the doctor in person!

We just released a new employee benefits education video in the Video Benefits Library highlighting the value of telemedicine services for employees and dependents.  

Production Partner benefits firms and video licensees can now select an animation video to educate employees and dependents about the value of a Telemedicine services.

You can watch the new video below and licensees can now access this title from their administrator login for Video Benefits Meeting and Video Benefits Library.

Telemedicine video:

Communicate employee benefits with video!

A survey for Hyatt Legal Plans (see Employee Benefits News story), revealed that “nearly 70% of employers said they offer a group legal plan to improve employee satisfaction.”

We just released a new employee benefits education video in the Video Benefits Library to help benefits firms and employers communicate the value of this benefit to employees.  

Production Partner benefits firms and video licensees can now select an animation video to educate employees about the value of a Voluntary Group Legal plan.

You can watch the new video below and licensees can now access this title from their administrator login for Video Benefits Meeting and Video Benefits Library.

Voluntary Group Legal

Communicate employee benefits with video!

Is your broker the expert you need?

We saw this article today in Smart Business and thought we’d share it here.

Health Reform is changing the competitive landscape for benefits brokers as they adapt to change brought on by ACA.  Our ACA Video Survival Guide and broker sales video (see below) can help benefits firms in their selling efforts in response to the Affordable Care Act. Benefits firms can use this video to get the attention of prospects and leverage the ACA Video Survival Guide to help employers navigate the many provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

Benefits firms that participate in our Production Partner Program can use this video and many others to differentiate themselves with prospects while educating clients in this pivotal period of change. View the video below to learn more.

Click here or on the image below to see the ACA Video Survival Guide in action!

As employers continue to contemplate their health program and benefits strategies under ACA, opportunities for voluntary benefits may grow.

If this is the case, utilizing employee benefits videos can be an efficient and effective way to educate employees/dependents about voluntary products while creating increased commissions for benefits firms.

Benefits firms and employers can promote voluntary benefit programs with Video Benefits Meeting, selecting  from a wide range of voluntary benefits video titles (see list below) at annual open enrollment or during special campaigns.

Take a look at some samples below as well as the current video title list for voluntary benefits. Benefits firms from across the country (click to see map) are using video to better compete, reduce cost, and boost productivity.

Video: Introduction to Voluntary Benefits:

Video: Voluntary Dental:

Explore Video Benefits Meeting here, or just click the image below:

Current Voluntary Benefits Video Titles in the Video Benefits Library:

Voluntary Benefits Introduction
Voluntary Accident
Voluntary Cancer
Voluntary Critical Illness
Voluntary Critical Illness
Voluntary LTD
Voluntary STD
Supplemental Life
Voluntary AD&D
Voluntary Dental
Group Long Term Care

A new employee benefits education video is now available in the Video Benefits Library.  Employers and Production Partner benefits firms can now select the SBC video to educate employees about the Summary of Benefits and Coverage document now required under ACA.

The video can also be used in a Video Benefits Meeting as a place to display all SBCs in one place providing quick, easy access for employees and dependents.

You can view the new video below and licensees can now access it from their administrator login for Video Benefits Meeting.

Watch the video: Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC) explained

Free Guide…get yours today! Just click the image below:

10 reasons to use video in your benefits communication.

For anyone one that has created a business, you know there’s a ton of risk and many unknowns. In 2008 I believed online video could begin to transform employee benefits communication for benefits brokers and employers as they seek ways to better compete, boost productivity, reduce cost, and engage employees.

Well, thanks to our growing client list, that vision is becoming a reality. With 20 benefits firms in 12 states (click to see map) in our Production Partner Program, video is now becoming an integral part of benefits communication strategy.

Many of our clients have been kind enough to share some of their experiences working with us, and we share some of those comments below.

We look forward to continuing to add new benefits education videos to the Video Benefits Library and our growing title list and sharing in the success of our clients!

“We have now launched 3 or 4 for our clients, including utilizing the site to present their 2013 benefit meetings.  Additionally, we have 4 or 5 others prepared to go within the next month.  It just keeps getting better.

Your continued enhancements such as voice-overs and animation are fantastic!  I am excited about all the possibilities which will keep my firm WELL out in front of my competitors!!! Benefits firm, WI

“The feedback I got was that the employees “loved” Video Benefits Meeting! They really liked being able to manage their education on their own time. The employer was VERY pleased as it saved them quite a bit of time. It also saved us quite a bit of time and printing costs since we didn’t have to print the materials and go to every site to have a meeting. All in all it was a great experience and I am certainly having the conversation with others!” Benefits firm, AZ

“Video Benefits Guy assisted our firm in putting together a video strategy for one of our larger clients. The process, from concept to deilverable, was handled professionally with no hidden hurdles. Our client loves the final product which gives us more credibility with the client. We look forward to expanding our relationship with Video Benefits Guy.” Benefits firm, Ft. Worth, TX

“Video Benefits Guy created an online video presentation for our agency regarding Health Care Reform. We were very impressed with the quality of the video as well as the speed in which it was created. We sent the video out to hundreds of clients and only received positive feedback. I would recommend Video Benefits Guy’s online videos to anyone looking for clear, concise delivery of any message.” Benefits firm, Austin, TX

“Video Benefits Guy really helped us with our direction. We had some ideas and they made them a reality with the fastest turnaround I have ever seen. I would highly recommend them and we will be using their services in the future. “ Benefits firm, Oklahoma City, OK Oklahoma

“Video Benefits Guy was very responsive and professional. The additional graphics that they created, and the audio recording created a short video clip that was a much higher quality product than we would have produced ourselves. Turnaround time was amazing. I hope to work more with Video Benefits Guy in the future and recommend him to others.” Financial Advisor, Portland, ME

“We purchased videos that Video Benefits Guy created to help our clients/prospects visualize and understand the many changing aspects of Healthcare. The videos are short, informative and easy to understand. These videos are great to email, post on your website or social media sites. We have received great feedback from our clients. Thanks Video Benefits Guy!” Benefits firm, New Hampshire

“Working with Video Benefits Guy was great. The process went very smoothly and the end product was produced way before our paper brochures were done. Their willingness to go the extra mile for their clients is apparent and welcomed! We will be working with them again on future projects.” Chief People Officer, national real estate firm, Phoenix, AZ

“Having worked with Video Benefits Guy over many years, his passion for what he does is unmatched. His innovative approach and unique ideas have helped us to attract and retain clients. I would highly recommend his services. Benefits firm, New York, NY

“Our agency purchased the Healthcare Reform Videos that Video Benefits Guy created to help our clients/prospects visualize and understand the many changing aspects of Healthcare. The videos are short, informative and easy to understand – plus they have our logo associated with the content. These videos are great to email, post on your website or social media sites. We have received great feedback from our clients. Thanks Video Benefits Guy!” Benefits firm, Nashua, NH

“Video Benefits Guy offers great solutions and knowledge. They understand their clients’ needs and deliver what they promise.” Benefits firm, Boston, MA

“We needed video services that could be customized but also cost effective to fit within our budget. Video Benefits Guy was able to help us achieve these goals in a short time frame.” Benefits firm, Boston, MA

“ I am thrilled with the final product and excited to share these videos with our client and their employees. I think you did an absolutely fantastic job. “ Benefits firm, Boston, MA

“As the world of employee benefits, particularly healthcare, has become ever more complex, we are constantly seeking to bring cutting edge, educational services to our clients and their employees. Video Benefits Guy provides us a cost effective means of doing that in a manner that human resources people find appealing. We are proud and excited for this new partnership.” Benefits firm, New York, NY

“I’ve worked with David for many years and have always found him to be knowledgeable, capable and easy to work with. We retained Video Benefits Guy to produce two participant education web videos. As expected, the final product was delivered promptly, professionally and at a good price. These web videos are going to be a great step forward for us.” Benefits Administration company, MA

“We hired Video Benefits Guy on behalf of one of our largest clients. The Web Open Enrollment was fantastic. The client received great feedback from the employees about how much better this enrollment was than in previous years. I would recommend giving their product a try.” Benefits firm, Phoenix, AZ

“I had the pleasure of working with Video Benefits Guy…always energetic, full of ideas that helped our business grow.” Benefits firm, MA

“We are excited to add yet another capability to our value-added solutions. Our commitment to our clients is to deliver best in class solutions, and this technology helps us do just that.” Benefits firm, Madison, WI

“Our firm hired Video Benefits Guy to help implement a series of benefit videos and found them to be highly knowledgeable and accommodating to our needs. I would highly recommend Video Benefits Guy for any video benefit needs.” Benefits firm, Albany, NY

To learn more about how online video can help your business, please start with the link below:

As always, thanks for watching!

David Cleary
Chief Video Benefits Guy

Communicate employee benefits with video!

A new employee benefits education video is now available in the Video Benefits Library.  Employers and Production Partner benefits firms can now select the Preventive Screenings video to educate employees about the value of preventive care and early detection of potentially serious health conditions.

Many Preventive Care Services and Screenings are now mandated to be covered by the Affordable Care Act at no out-of-pocket cost to employees and dependents. This video can help explain how taking advantage of Preventive Care Services and Screenings can keep employees and dependents healthy while reducing the chance of expensive care down the road.

You can view the new video below and licensees can now access it from their administrator login for Video Benefits Meeting.

Preventive Care and Screenings

Communicate employee benefits with video!

Two new employee benefits education videos are now available in the Video Benefits Library.  Production Partner benefits firms can now select animation videos to educate employees about the value of Voluntary Accident and Voluntary Cancer insurance.

You can view the new videos below and Production Partners can now access them from their administrator login for Video Benefits Meeting.

Voluntary Accident Insurance

Voluntary Cancer Insurance

Communicate employee benefits with video!