The notion of travelling for work, on
paper, might appear to have the potential to unlock a veritable Pandora’s Box
of exciting experiences. However, this is only the case if employees are given
the means by their employer to make the most of the great opportunities that
travel presents.
In truth, travelling on business is
very much a chore, which is something that people who talk of trips to
the likes of Paris, New York and Barcelona, to only see the insides of an
exhibition hall, will attest to.
Implementing a well-balanced corporate
travel policy is key for businesses in ensuring that employees who need to
travel for work are enlightened, motivated and get the most out of their
business trips on a commercial and personal level.
The top priority is ensuring travellers
are fully briefed in the traditions of the country they’re visiting, equipping
them with the means to do business there effectively, while protecting them
from committing a social faux pas. Interesting insights include knowing that
the Finnish tend to dislike small talk while the Japanese regard it as vital to
sealing the deal.
Workers should return to their families
well-rested and in a good mood, which is why it’s vital not to cut corners and
make the effort to book quality airlines and hotels and flights that operate at
sociable hours.
Meanwhile, the promise of travel free weeks
offer up that all-important work/life balance, along with remuneration and the
option to take time in lieu.
While the above ensures a good travel
experience, there are some points that businesses should stand firm on.
Airmile loyalty programmes aren’t
always the most cost-effective when selecting flights and accommodation so it
should be company policy not to use them.
If a train is delayed by 30 minutes or
more, the passenger is entitled to a refund that may well end up in their
employer’s pocket. To keep up morale, it’s best to pass it back to the worker
in question.
Inviting family on a business trip is a
grey area because of regulations and legalities surrounding duty of care, which
is why it’s best to avoid this practice unless the circumstances are
exceptional.
Having these value added measures in
place will result in a business travel workforce that’s both culturally
sensitive and strategic.
This post was
written by Paul Casement, Director of Sales and Account Management at Travel
Management Company Portman Clarity, who are exhibiting at the Business Travel
Show next week - you can register for a free pass at www.businesstravelshow.com
Please visit http://www.claritytm.co.uk/ and http://www.portmantravel.com/ for
more information.
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