Hotels and Travel – How To Provide Accommodations

Job travel has become more frequent and in some cases, mandatory for employment nowadays. The reasons for this are varied, but there is a general consensus that companies are becoming more dependent on external resources such as outsourcing. This has been pushed by the need for cutting costs and improved efficiency. Companies are constantly striving to cut costs by not having to provide benefits, providing on-site training and making employees travel under their own power. These practices are proving to be extremely beneficial to the companies.

When an employee needs on-the-job traveling, the employer takes on the responsibility for providing accommodations including transportation for job-related traveling even when driving isn’t an exception. For instance, an employer needs to consider alternative modes of transportation for an administrative worker that can’t drive because of visual impairment; the important point is still completing the job, not just driving. In addition to the more obvious benefits to an administrative worker, however, there are many instances when this benefits both the company and the employee. For instance, an employee may not be able to afford to drive to the site of the interview unless there are available transportation options, and therefore provides an opportunity for an administrative professional to complete the interview from his/her home, increasing their overall job satisfaction.

When an employee is commuting to and from an on-the-job traveling destination for the first time, accommodations are typically more expensive than they might be for someone who is used to traveling on the road. Fortunately, there are options for those who are unfamiliar with the area and hotel accommodations that are off the beaten path. Most major cities have a good selection of motels and apartments that are right near the business district and many offer shuttle services to and from the airport. This makes driving there unnecessary, and saves the employer the expense of having to rent a vehicle for several days during the interviewing process. Similarly, it can be beneficial for an administrative professional to get a rental car at the hotel so that they have easy access to the area of business, but once they are on the job and familiar with the area, the rental car is simply a waste of time.

For the small business owner, there are numerous lodging options beyond the typical chain hotels, motels and apartments. Luxury travel packages including conference rooms, meeting rooms, private jets and more are available for the entrepreneur who can afford the high fees associated with these accommodations. These travel options are usually designed for the traveling executive who needs the ultimate in comfort and convenience while on the road. The perks are almost endless, including discounts at restaurants and attractions, as well as first class seating and accommodations that are located nearby the job site. For the first class traveler, these luxury accommodations usually include a designated staff member who helps with any additional needs such as a transportation service or assistance with obtaining a hotel room.

Smaller companies also offer a variety of accommodations that fall in the first class range. In addition to providing comfortable accommodations, these companies can provide benefits such as onsite parking, meals when necessary and discounted entertainment opportunities. They often provide a shuttle service between the job site and the hotel. This option is very convenient for employees who may not be able to make it to the hotel on their own.

Regardless of what type of employee benefits a company offers, there is a need for employers to ensure that they comply with all of the employment laws. There are many laws that govern how employers can go about promoting or advertising employment opportunities. In addition, there are rules governing on-the-ground business activities. It is essential that employers understand the dos and don’ts when it comes to what they can and cannot advertise to potential employees. If they fail to do so, they can be held legally liable for statements made during on-the-work travel, advertisements placed in residences, and for actions taken as a result of an employee’s on-the-ground travel.