We are frequently told that mobility teams are the last to hear of an upcoming project and that they must scramble for suitable accommodation, which at short notice, is often challenging. They know well enough that the accommodation is a critical component of a successful project, but that it is often not taken seriously enough in their organisation.
We, in the industry, have always known that the quality and location of extended stay accommodation affects employee satisfaction, productivity, and vitally, retention. If it is an afterthought of project management, they are taking a big risk. This is now borne out by extensive research, summarised below.
- Comfortable and well-equipped accommodations can enhance productivity and reduce stress. Features like ergonomic furniture, good lighting, quiet surroundings, and reliable internet access can create a conducive workspace. When employees feel comfortable, they’re more likely to stay focused and productive.
- Restful sleep is another critical factor. A comfortable bed and quiet environment help ensure good sleep, which boosts energy and focus the next day.
- Amenities like access to reliable Wi-Fi, fitness facilities, and even a well-equipped kitchen can improve overall well-being. Having these conveniences allows employees to maintain routines and reduce the stress of adjusting to a new environment.
- Corporate lodging solutions that offer consistent, high-quality accommodations are found to boost employee morale and satisfaction. Employees who feel well-taken care of during travel are more likely to stay engaged and perform well.
- Finally, employees value flexibility and personalization in their accommodations. Tailored housing solutions that match their specific needs—whether it’s for short-term stays or long-term assignments—can make a huge difference.
Overall, providing high-quality, comfortable accommodation during travel significantly contributes to employee satisfaction, which in turn boosts performance and retention. This is little more than common sense really, but frequently not given sufficient emphasis.
Other considerations, that go beyond the comfort of the employee, are their safety and your duty of care. Thought must be given to the security of locations and properties. That they meet safety and fire regulations. So, the careful selection of your extended stay provider should not be a last-minute scramble which settles for suboptimal solutions. We frequently meet guests who have never been in the country, are tired from their journey and feel uncertain and insecure. Being guided to their apartment and advised of the security arrangements, goes a long way to ensuring a good start to their assignment.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chris Miller is Chairman of Convido Corporate Housing, provider of extended stay apartments in Australia, New Zealand and The Philippines for more than 25 years. Previously the CEO of Simplot Australia and having held CEO positions in Europe and the Americas he is well acquainted with the challenges of relocation, both personally and for his employees.
Citations:
[1] The Power of Corporate Lodging Solutions | Globeo https://globeo.com/the-power-of-corporate-lodging-solutions/
[2] Doing Better – Improving Accommodations for Employees … – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/doing-better-improving-accommodations-employees-tina-namiesniowski-nh1ae
[3] Balance Cost & Comfort In Corporate Travel Accommodation https://blog.wegopro.com/cost-comfort-in-corporate-travel-accommodations/
[4] Employee housing solutions: a key to HR success https://people-mobility.org/employee-housing-solutions-a-key-to-hr-success/
[5] Elevate Business Trips with Tailored Accommodation – SKIL Travel https://www.skiltravel.com/blog/the-key-to-enhanced-corporate-travel-experiences-is-not-a-one-size-fits-all-approach
[6] Developing a Work Accommodation Operating Model for … https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11839889/
[7] Employees Want Convenience and Comfort When Traveling for Workhttps://www.futureofbusinessandtech.com/employee-well-being/employees-want-convenience-and-comfort-when-traveling-for-work/
[8] [PDF] employee satisfaction during the pandemic – ScholarWorkshttps://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/47429h49d
[9] How Plug & Play Stays Improve Employee Productivity & Satisfaction https://flxho.in/how-plug-play-stays-improve-employee-productivity-satisfaction/
[10] [PDF] an-analysis-of-employee-satisfaction-in-hotel-industry-a-case-study
https://plhr.org.pk/issues/v5/2/an-analysis-of-employee-satisfaction-in-hotel-industry-a-case-study-of-hunza.pdf
