Often in business, it’s necessary for a company to send an employee to another part of the world – perhaps to seal a deal, or open up a new office on behalf of the company. Whatever the reason, it’s a big upheaval for the employee and although you’re paying them to do the job, you should also consider paying for their accommodation whilst on the trip.
If they’re heading to a different destination for a week or longer, it would be worth considering serviced apartments rather than hotels. This may seem a little over the top, but there are actually many benefits to choosing these apartments – some of which are listed below.
Can be cost-effective
Most hotels are fairly expensive these days. After all, we’re all facing a certain level of economic strain, so hotels have had to raise their prices. If you need to send an employee somewhere for six or seven nights, you could be looking at a bill of over £800 – just for accommodation. That doesn’t include living costs, like transport and food. If they’re staying in London, this could be even higher; closer to over £1,000 just for a bed for the week. Plus, eating out in London isn’t cheap – even at the lower-end places.
That’s why serviced apartments can work out much more cost-effective for employers. The hotel bills are avoided and as catering facilities are included, your employees will be able to live as normal; meaning fewer costly restaurant meals or take-out bills. What’s more, they can’t be tempted by the (very expensive!) mini-bar. The costs are down on all counts.
Flexibility and privacy
Where a London-based hotel might not provide free access to wi-fi or any internet connection at all, many serviced apartments come with this as standard. This means your employee can easily work from the apartment on days they don’t have meetings; connecting to the internet with ease. Emails can be answered and presentations finished. What’s more, if they need to entertain whilst on the trip – perhaps schmoozing potential investors – they’ll have a spacious and well-presented area in which to do so.
This also means any business negotiations or meetings can be carried out in a private, secure space. There are no competitors listening in and the chance of any confidential details being leaked is lessened. You never know who is listening in a hotel or B&B and with multi-national deals, sometimes even the most insignificant of details could cause hassle if leaked to the press. Media and press specialists are rife in big cities like London, so you need to think if you can afford to take the chance of this happening.
Employees will feel at ease
When employees are happy, their productivity and motivation is bound to improve. By giving them the space and quality of living they deserve, they may make more of their trip; securing that all-important deal, or giving the new office their full attention. It can’t hurt to treat your employees well, particularly when demanding a lot of cross-country travel from them, as it can improve retention rates and ultimately, your profits, when they’re working especially hard. It’s a wise investment and one most employers would do well to make, especially when they may end up ultimately saving money.
