Employee Services Understanding Benefits of State Employment Utilizing available services towards achieving Work/Life balance

Be a “Resolutionist”  Term commonly used for those that join the gym, start a diet, etc. in January and quit by February  However you can flip this into something incredibly positive!

Know How to Find Your Resources  To find someone to assist with HR, Benefits, Payroll questions, this link leads you to a list of agency contacts: Support/Pages/AgencyContactList.aspx  List is maintained by DES with information provided by each agency, but you can usually find someone under “HR” or “Payroll” to assist or redirect you.

Know How to Find Your Resources continued...  Public Employees Benefits Board staff can be reached between 8am and 5pm Monday through Friday at  Find the direct contact number for the specific benefit you need help with here: ans.aspx  The quality of the question drives the quality of the answer you’re likely to receive – be clear, be specific.

Employee Assistance Program  It’s not just for major life problems or performance issues...  Contact them for referrals to resources if you need financial assistance, life coaching, or just need an impartial party or “safe space” to listen and offer perspective.  Toll-free number:  Olympia Office:  px px

Alternate Work Schedules  Check your agency’s policy on this, but usually a CTR coordinator can assist if your request is commute based.  Talk with Human Resources and Payroll if you wish to obtain information ahead of talking with your management team.  This usually requires approval; have a plan when talking with your supervisor.

PEBB Wellness Programs  Washington Wellness supports Wellness Coordinators at both state agencies and higher education institutions. Find your coordinator here: orksite.aspx orksite.aspx  What they can and cannot do for you  CAN provide resources and tools  CANNOT implement a program not supported by your agency leaders in terms of dedication of space for wellness or fitness events, etc.  Health Assessments and NOT ME Diabetes Prevention Program

Wellness Programs  Each medical plan offered through PEBB has a wellness program or “engagement” program – you can find those resources through the secure web portal for your plan.  Gym and fitness center discounts are offered through Group Health and Regence (Uniform Medical Plan) but you need to contact them directly for this information – linked to your plan’s wellness program.  As a state employee, you can ask any gym or fitness center if they offer a discount.

Other Items of Interest...  All major cell phone carriers offer discounts to state employees and (sometimes family members), this varies from time to time and vendor to vendor, but they can range from 8% to 15%.  Liberty Mutual offers up to 12% in discounts if you combine home and car insurance.

A few thoughts...  Using the buddy system at work  Have a friend, family member, co-worker call you at a designated time at beginning or end of day to “check in”  Sharing resources  Does everyone need their own Costco membership?