One of the biggest daily barriers for any new employee that often flies under the radar is the commute that’s expected of them. If they have to travel for their work, it can cost them considerable time and money to make it in every day. Savvy employers may notice this, but there’s more that they can do to help. Here, we’re going to look at some benefits you should consider offering employees who have to travel a long way to get to the workplace.
Supporting Public Transport Use
Helping employees reduce their work travel budget by helping them access affordable public transport, such as with season ticket loans, travel pass subsidies, or discounted rail and bus schemes through local providers, can make a big difference. Providing help with finding the right routes and reading timetables can help avoid some of the snafus often found in the early days of a new job, too.
Providing A Fuel Allowance
It may cost you more, but a direct fuel allowance also offers more direct help to commuters balancing their budgets. If they rely on personal vehicles, then the extra time spent on public transport might not be an attractive option. Allowances can ease their pressure, and also potentially help you cover multiple employees if you encourage carpooling, which also eases parking at the office.
Offer Company Car Options
If you’re looking to offer a really attractive benefit, consider your company car options. For instance, you can look at an EV salary sacrifice scheme comparison, which shows providers that allow employees to get access to a leased car in exchange for a portion of their salary. The exchange typically ends up better for them financially than covering the costs alone, especially as it reduces their taxable income, which also means paying less tax.
Promote Cycle-To-Work Schemes
While it may not always be feasible, based on your location, cycle-to-work schemes that offer easy access to bicycles and safety equipment can make commuting much more affordable, while also encouraging employees to consider healthier alternatives for getting to work. Typically, you need to support bike travel with storage, lockers, showers, and drying facilities at or near the workplace, as well. Encouraging walking and cycling where feasible demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and employee health, while offering a practical alternative to costly fuel, parking, and public transport fares.
Consider Remote And Hybrid Options
Of course, a commute is a lot less of a hassle when the employee doesn’t actually have to do it. Offering remote or hybrid working, reducing the number of days they have to travel per week is the clearest way to cut transport costs, save time, and improve work-life balance. Of course, you have to be sure that you have the communication and productivity tracking means to ensure that remote workers stay on track, too.
Offering benefits to employees that directly address their needs can make them feel much more treasured and valued, thus making them more likely to stay engaged and motivated in the workplace. They can also be just what you need to snag a potential hire that’s on the fence due to a long commute.
