A broker’s guide to showing clients how the EAP supports leadership, not just employees in crisis
Too often, EAPs are viewed as something employees use individually—outside the purview of managers. But in reality, the EAP can be one of the most powerful tools managers have to support their teams, address performance challenges early, and build trust.
As a broker, you can help clients understand how the EAP supports leadership and empower them to integrate it into day-to-day management.
Why Managers Need the EAP
Managers are often the first to notice when something’s wrong—but they’re not therapists. They need simple, confidential tools to point employees toward support, and guidance on how to have those conversations.
The EAP gives them:
- A resource to offer when performance dips or stress rises
- A way to support team well-being without overstepping
- A structured referral path to avoid guesswork
Use Case 1: Team Burnout
A manager notices that a previously high-performing team is missing deadlines, showing signs of disengagement, and quietly expressing frustration.
How the EAP helps:
- The manager calls the EAP for consultation on how to support the team
- The EAP provides talking points and communication tips
- Group sessions or resilience training are offered
- The manager reminds employees of the confidential individual services available
Use Case 2: Employee Grief or Crisis
An employee returns from bereavement leave but is struggling to focus, frequently emotional, and less communicative.
How the EAP helps:
- The manager privately suggests the employee contact the EAP for grief counseling
- The manager reassures the employee it’s confidential and free
- The EAP supports the employee with short-term therapy and coping tools
- The employee feels supported and gradually returns to full performance
Use Case 3: Coaching for Career Growth and Stress
A high-potential employee shares that they’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to balance leadership growth with workload.
How the EAP helps:
- The manager recommends EAP life coaching to help navigate career transitions
- The employee receives one-on-one coaching and stress management tips
- The EAP supports goal setting, confidence-building, and mindset tools
- The manager sees improvement in focus and morale
How Brokers Can Help Clients Train Managers
- Offer manager EAP toolkits: when to refer, what to say, how it helps
- Include use cases like the above in manager training or benefits overviews
- Partner with EAP vendors to deliver short manager-focused webinars or FAQs
- Encourage HR to reinforce that the EAP is a tool for managers—not just employees
Final Word
When managers understand how and when to use the EAP, they become better leaders and allies in employee well-being. These stories help make the value real—and show clients how EAPs create stronger teams and stronger workplaces.