When it comes to Open Enrollment, most HR teams focus on the enrollment window itself. But here’s a secret the most effective teams already know: 

Open Enrollment starts long before the portal opens. 

The weeks leading up to OE are when your employees are forming impressions, asking silent questions, and deciding whether to engage or delay. That’s why your pre-enrollment communication strategy matters just as much as your plan documents. 

In this post, we’ll show you how to warm up your audience, reduce confusion, and set a confident tone for the weeks ahead. 

Why Pre-Enrollment Communication Is So Important 

Pre-enrollment is your chance to: 

• Build awareness of key changes 

• Reduce questions and anxiety before the clock starts ticking 

• Get ahead of misconceptions that create last-minute chaos 

• Reinforce the value of your benefits offering (and your HR team!) 

Think of it as opening night. You wouldn’t launch a play without previews and promotion. OE deserves the same build-up. 

What to Share Before Enrollment Begins 

Start by mapping out what employees need to know before they make decisions. Focus your messages on: 

1. Plan Changes 

Any major updates to premiums, providers, eligibility, or coverage. 

“We’ve updated our dental provider for 2025. Here’s what that means for your care.” 

2. What to Expect 

When OE starts, how long it lasts, and where to go for support. 

“Mark your calendar! Open Enrollment begins October 15 and runs through November 5.” 

3. Tools & Resources 

Decision support tools, plan comparison guides, recorded webinars. 

“Want help comparing plans? Our new tool walks you through it in 10 minutes.” 

4. Why It Matters 

Help employees see the connection between smart decisions now and better outcomes later. 

“Your benefits are more than checkboxes—they’re your family’s support system.” 

Best Practices for Pre-OE Messaging 

• Use multiple channels: Email, SMS, intranet, and even physical signage work better together. 
• Repeat the essentials: One and done doesn’t work. Reinforce key points in different ways. 
• Make it visual: Use icons, infographics, and plain language. 
• Segment when possible: Tailor messages for union vs. non-union, salaried vs. hourly, or remote vs. on-site workers. 

Need help organizing all your OE messages? Download our Communication Calendar Template. 

How Selerix Helps You Get Ahead 

With Selerix Engage, you can: 

• Automate personalized messages by eligibility or enrollment status 
• Send pre-scheduled SMS nudges 
• Track engagement to see who’s opening, clicking, or missing your messages entirely 
• Centralize all your OE content in one employee-friendly hub 

Great communication isn’t just about sending more emails—it’s about sending the right message to the right people at the right time. 

Take the Next Step 

If you’re still writing your OE emails the day before launch, let’s fix that. 

Download our Pre-Enrollment Communication Calendar to map out your OE messaging strategy week-by-week. 

Want to make it even easier? Talk to a Selerix expert about how Selerix Engage can automate and personalize your OE communication across channels. 

Because OE success isn’t just about enrollment rates. It’s about clarity, confidence, and connection—before the first click ever happens.