Supporting employees on the road is not just a perk-it’s a necessity for their well-being and your business’s success
Business travel is often regarded as an essential part of growth and expansion, but what is frequently overlooked is the impact it has on employees. Recent research conducted by Opinium and commissioned by World Travel Protection reveals that for many North American business travellers, work-related travel is leading to heightened anxiety, stress, and exhaustion. This research highlights the urgent need for employers to reassess their approach to supporting employees during business trips.
The Increasing Demand and Its Consequences
The landscape of business travel is evolving. The research indicates that a significant proportion of business travellers are experiencing an increase in work-related trips this year compared to last, with 54% of U.S. respondents and 48% of Canadian respondents noting a rise. Not only are they travelling more, but they are also cramming more meetings into each trip (54% in the U.S. and 43% in Canada).
This surge in demand is not without consequences. The disruption to daily routines, coupled with the physical distance from support systems such as family and friends, exacerbates mental health issues, leading to feelings of anxiety and stress. Dr Joel Lockwood, Regional Chief Medical Officer (Americas) at World Travel Protection, warns that “uncertainty and lack of support from employers can have a significant and detrimental impact on an employee’s mental well-being, potentially causing significant distress.”
The Call for Greater Support
The research reveals a clear desire for more support from employers. In the U.S., 61% of business travellers believe their employer could do more to ensure their safety, while 70% would appreciate more frequent check-ins whilst travelling. In Canada, these numbers are slightly lower but still significant, with 51% wanting more safety measures and 58% desiring more regular communication.
Yet, despite this clear need, only 27% of U.S. and 30% of Canadian travellers report that their employer provides regular check-ins to ensure their well-being.
Practical Steps for Employers
So, what can employers do to better support their travelling employees? Dr Lockwood suggests several actionable strategies. Pre-trip medical and country intelligence can help set realistic expectations, reducing anxiety about the unknown. Simple actions, such as encouraging daily video calls with family or promoting the use of wellness apps, can provide comfort and stability during trips.
Equally important is the need for a well-communicated action plan in case of emergencies. Employees who know their employer has a solid plan in place are more likely to feel secure and less stressed. “Allowing for pre-travel workload discussions and giving employees opportunities to take a break during travel, where possible, are also crucial,” adds Dr Lockwood.
A Win-Win for Employers and Employees
The benefits of business travel are undeniable, but they should not come at the expense of employee well-being. Employees don’t necessarily view work trips as a benefit and companies need to ensure their time is valued. Organisations that proactively support their employees on the road not only protect their workforce but also enhance the overall effectiveness and productivity of their business operations.
By implementing the strategies outlined above, you can help create a safer, healthier, and more productive travel experience for your employees-ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organisation.
Find out how we can help you travel safely
Whether you or your staff are travelling to major events around the world, your requirements might go further than these important safety tips. World Travel Protection is a 24/7 travel and medical assistance provider that helps support its customers when medical, travel and security emergencies arise. Our Travel Risk Management Solutions help provide travellers with all the support they need pre- and during travel via our portal, app, and in-house experts. Fill out the form below to find out more.
