In today’s cost- and time-pressured business landscape, every cent and every minute counts. We break down how an expert corporate travel agent can be a real game-changer by saving your company money, enhancing employee productivity and boosting morale during business trips...
An expert corporate travel agent doesn’t simply book point A to B travel; they manage all aspects of the business travel landscape, including:
Corporate travel agents strategically plan itineraries to optimise time and resources. This ensures that your employees spend more time on their business objectives and less time navigating complex travel logistics.
Corporate travel agents leverage their industry relationships to negotiate exclusive deals with airlines, hotels, car hire and other travel service providers. These cost-effective partnerships translate into significant savings for companies on every business trip.
With dedicated account managers, corporate travel agents simplify the booking process, making it more efficient and tailored to your company's specific needs. This not only saves time but also minimises the risk of errors.
Reputable corporate travel agents provide collaborative technology with integrated expense management solutions, facilitating a seamless tracking and reporting process. This transparency helps your finance department manage budgets more effectively.
With advanced expense management tools, experienced corporate travel agents help companies keep a close eye on their travel budgets. They assist in implementing and enforcing corporate travel policies, and ensuring that employees adhere to budget guidelines. Detailed reporting systems provided by corporate travel agencies also allow for a clear understanding of where money is spent, enabling organisations to identify areas for potential cost reduction.
Duty of Care is a legal and ethical obligation that companies have to ensure the safety, well-being and security of their employees when they travel for work. It encompasses a range of responsibilities to minimise risks and protect employees from harm during business trips.
Companies are expected to provide Duty of Care for several reasons, including legal compliance, employee morale and reputation management. Failing to uphold Duty of Care can lead to legal consequences, damage the company's image and negatively impact employee trust and satisfaction.
Experienced corporate travel agencies will ensure your company provides duty of care by following these best practices:
Corporate travel agents employ robust risk management systems that identify and assess potential hazards at travel destinations. This enables companies to make informed decisions about sending employees to specific locations, considering factors such as health risks, political instability and natural disasters.
Corporate travel agents provide round-the-clock support, ensuring that employees have access to assistance in case of emergencies. This includes medical emergencies, travel disruptions and other unforeseen situations.
Advanced technology allows corporate travel agents to track employees' movements in real-time. In the event of an emergency, this feature ensures that companies can locate and assist their employees quickly and efficiently.
Corporate travel agents keep abreast of health and safety guidelines for various destinations. This includes information on vaccinations, local health facilities and any specific health precautions, helping companies fulfil their Duty of Care responsibilities.
Corporate travel agents tailor itineraries based on employee preferences and safety considerations. This not only enhances the overall travel experience but also ensures that employees are situated in secure and reputable accommodations.
Engaging a corporate travel agent will not only deliver direct cost savings on travel bookings, but also indirect cost savings by improving employee productivity via:
Modern corporate travel agents utilise advanced technology to automate mundane tasks, allowing your employees to focus on their work. From booking flights to handling visa applications, technology streamlines the entire process.
Unforeseen circumstances can arise at any time. Corporate travel agents offer round-the-clock support, ensuring that your employees have assistance when needed, even in different time zones.
Beyond the nuts and bolts of business travel bookings, a good corporate travel agent will endeavour to make travel for work enjoyable for your employees via:
Corporate travel agents add a personal touch, tailoring travel experiences to individual preferences. This contributes to a positive mind-set among employees, enhancing their overall satisfaction during business trips.
Corporate travel agents prioritise employee well-being by taking into account factors such as layover durations, preferred airlines and accommodations with amenities that promote relaxation and comfort.
One of the prime reasons to engage a dedicated corporate travel agent is that they will have your – and your employees’ – backs if anything goes wrong. They’re there for:
In the event of travel disruptions, corporate travel agents step in to resolve issues promptly. This minimises the impact on your employees' schedules and helps them navigate unexpected challenges.
Beyond typical travel woes, corporate travel agents assist during emergencies, providing a crucial lifeline for your employees in unfamiliar locations.
Insurance is crucial to reduce or eliminate a company’s liability because things can – and do – go wrong on business trips. Corporate travel agents offer comprehensive travel insurance options, providing financial protection in case of trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Having travel insurance adds an extra layer of security, allowing your employees to embark on business trips with peace of mind, knowing that they are covered in case of any unexpected events.
Enlisting the services of a corporate travel agent goes beyond mere cost savings; it's an investment in efficiency, employee productivity and overall satisfaction during business travel. As the business landscape evolves, partnering with a reliable corporate travel agent becomes a strategic move that pays dividends in the long run.
Sure Corporate is a division of the Sure Travel Group, the oldest travel agency consortium in southern Africa. All Sure Corporate travel agencies are expertly positioned to manage corporate clients’ every need, focusing on cost reduction and efficiencies across all travel management tiers. Book an obligation-free appointment with a Sure Corporate consultant to find out how our corporate travel agencies can streamline your company’s business travel.