Investigating the Technology Usages and Job Skill Preferences of Worksite Wellness Professionals
Background: As businesses continue to recognize the benefits of a happy, healthy, high-performing workforce, job prospects for experienced worksite wellness professionals are projected to grow much faster than the national average. Work experience is very important to career growth, but equally so is the recognition of current trends and being in the right place with the right skill sets to take advantage of the opportunities presented. As a method of creating, evaluating, and disseminating this practical list of current trends and desired skill sets, this study explored the technology usages and job skill preferences of practicing worksite wellness professionals. Objectives: 1) Identify the technologies currently being used by practicing worksite wellness professionals in each of the Seven Areas of Responsibility for health education specialists, and 2) identify the preferred job skills for entry-level employment in a worksite wellness setting from the perspective of practicing worksite wellness professionals. Study Design: A novel Qualtrics survey was emailed on two separate occasions to 20 current and former colleagues of the primary investigator. Results: A total of 12 worksite wellness professionals participated in the study. An average of 13.4 technologies were reported per person and the top categories of technology include surveying software, Microsoft Office suite of programs, proprietary software, and mass marketing software. Furthermore, the possession of soft skills, which include having a great attitude, wanting to learn, and practicing what you preach, were reported as the most preferred job skills for entry-level employment. Conclusion: The seeking of additional training in the technologies and skill sets identified in this study may help aspiring worksite wellness professionals stand out from the competition and achieve career growth.
- 2019