Business mobility refers to the various ways in which employees get to work, commute to business meetings, and travel for work-related purposes. In the past, businesses have focused on mobility as a way of reducing costs and increasing efficiency. However, we are now seeing a new conversation around business mobility that is also about employee welfare and social value. This article explores the changing landscape of business mobility and its potential benefits for businesses.
Shift in Decision-Making Process
Traditionally, mobility decisions were made by fleet teams or travel managers. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards involving HR teams in travel and mobility decisions. This change recognizes that mobility decisions have implications for employee welfare and social value. By involving HR teams, businesses are better equipped to make mobility decisions that take into account the needs of their employees.
Access to Electric Vehicles (EVs)
As businesses increase their access to EVs, they need to think about installing charging points at work locations. This consideration reflects the impact of increasing employee access to EVs. This shift towards EVs is geared towards reducing the environmental impact of business travel, but it’s also essential to consider the infrastructure necessary to support EVs.
Using Personal Cars for Work
Nearly half (44%) of the respondents in a recent survey use their own cars for work and claim mileage reimbursement. This trend can have negative implications for employee welfare and social value, such as employees spending too much time on the road and potentially exposing themselves to a higher risk of accidents. A shift away from personal cars can contribute to a healthier workplace, and employees will appreciate employers that support their well-being and safety.
Duty of Care and Inclusion in the Workplace
There is a duty of care around ensuring employees have equal access and inclusion in the workplace, which includes access to transport. Although accessibility and inclusion may not be the primary considerations in mobility decisions, they are important to ensure that all employees have the opportunity to participate in the workplace.
Business opportunity for mobility solutions
Getting the right mobility solution is a significant business opportunity for businesses. Well-considered policies can greatly support organizational targets for recruitment and retention, especially as employees increasingly value healthy and sustainable mobility practices.
Health and safety considerations
Mobility policies should include suitable and affordable options for each stage of a journey made for business travel. This can include considerations such as providing safe, secure, and comfortable modes of transport or offering suitable rest facilities. By supporting employees’ health, safety, and well-being, businesses can build a team that is healthy, productive, and loyal.
Security and Well-being Consideration
Providing people with the assurance of knowing they will always be able to commute to and from the workplace safely is a matter of wellbeing. The feeling of security that results from employers offering safe transportation to and from work can enhance loyalty, productivity, and effectiveness, which, in turn, can increase the value of employees’ contributions to the organization.
Supporting Environmentally Responsible Practices
A mobility policy that supports environmentally responsible practices and decarbonization is important in today’s climate-sensitive business environment. It can also help employees embrace active travel methods such as walking and cycling. Such environmentally friendly practices can contribute to stronger teamwork with an added sense of pride and admiration for organizations that provide their employees with greener mobility options.
Future of Business Mobility
Rethinking what business mobility could look like for the future can create a stronger workforce and communicate an important message around inclusion and employee care. Businesses that prioritize employee welfare and social value in their mobility policies can reap benefits such as increased loyalty, higher productivity, and a healthier organization.
In conclusion, business mobility is not just about reducing costs and increasing efficiency, but also about promoting employee welfare and social value. By involving HR teams in mobility decisions, businesses can make better decisions that balance economic benefits with social considerations. Providing safe, secure, and reliable modes of transport can increase employee loyalty, productivity, and well-being. Furthermore, environmentally sustainable mobility practices not only help businesses reduce carbon emissions, but also encourage active travel methods such as walking and cycling. Ultimately, adopting a holistic approach to business mobility that addresses economic, social, and environmental concerns can provide significant advantages for businesses.
