As companies strikeout to secure deals all over the world, sometimes the cost of doing so takes more than it gives back. Of course, it’s a perfect image for a company to be mobile and adaptable, but the costs of doing so leave many businesses bitter. Work is reduced to airline class systems and stars on a hotel review, drawing away focus and funds from the vital parts of your firm.
However, companies should be seeking a way to control the costs of travel. The debate around business class flights continues through the years, questioning its worth and highlighting the division among frequent flyers. After all, business travel is but a means to an end, and the spending should be conducted in alignment with that attitude. Below are methods by which a company can minimise their travel expenditure.
- Fair Assessment: While travelling around the world can seem liberating, it can be limiting. Not every meeting requires a flight for a handshake. Assess the importance of the meeting and act from there, as some minor deals may be struck with a quick Skype or telephone call. After all, airports are notorious for experiencing lengthy delays at customer expense, so try to assess whether the meetings are actually worth that risk of delay and the cost of travel. It’s a lot of hassle to go through and time is money, especially in the case of business.
- Controlled Logistics: If travel is entirely necessary, then it is essential that your employee or representative is in-and-out as quickly as possible to minimise expenses. Undeniably, travel costs begin to ramp up with every passing day; flights, hotels, meals, Wi-Fi, they all come with a hefty bill. Of course, it can be tempting to travel extensively to maintain a high company profile, but the popularity of business travel has dropped exponentially over the years. Ultimately, none of this is for a luxury holiday, so spend accordingly and don’t use the funds for fun.
- Outside Organisation: Kicking things into gear yourself can cause more expense than necessary. Booking travel and accommodation can draw away time spent on more important areas of the company environment. Put simply, under too many responsibilities any company will crack, and business travel is one niche where others can assume those obligations. For example, travel management businesses like Airplus International provide a robust method for managing these expenses, consolidating all the bother into a single, affordable procedure. Consequently, you can leave it to the professionals and better use your work time.
- A Reasonable Balance: Cheap deals are only occasionally good deals. After all, many price barriers indicate a limitation of some kind, so it’s important not to commit to a travel bargain that hinders your progress. Additionally, employees can become disgruntled and even resign because of troublesome travel plans, so slashing the prices too severely can compromise the overall effectiveness of your workforce and company. A loss of staff and productivity will come with its own cost deductions, and subsequently, stall proceedings in the long run. Ultimately, travelling in comfort and travelling in style are two very different things, so find that balance.
- Keen Foresight: When confirming expensive travel plans, it is vital to do so in good time. Last minute actions will drive up last minute costs, churning out more expenses. Saving money takes plenty of time and hard work in doing so, meaning any bookings should be solidified well in advance. Additionally, digital ways of booking can help here, ensuring a quick and early transaction while leaving more time open for other matters. Administrative faff and rushed plans will only secure a loss of time and money, so it’s important to get in early and stay ahead of the curve for that cut cost.
