Corporate travel requires immense planning and scheduling to complete the business objectives and enhance overall employee satisfaction. Most of the time travel admins find themselves burdened and overwhelmed by the constant travel requests and changes in the schedule. The problem is a concerning issue with mid and large-scale organizations. Companies hire specialized corporate travel management companies to help them with the booking and management of business trips. However, there are numerous challenges when choosing a corporate travel company that travel admins and managers should be aware of. Through this blog let us try to understand these challenges and tackle them with practical solutions.
Top challenges when choosing a corporate travel company
1. Finding the missing puzzle piece
Corporate travel management companies specialize in various domains such as budget planning, reporting, booking and supplier management, risk elimination, and much more. In an ocean of giant TMCs, you may find it hard to choose the right one. Therefore, it is better to set up criteria as per your requirements and then go on the hunt. You can use budget restrictions, data management, travel customizations, etc. as some of the factors governing your choice.
2. Being blunt with the charges
It is a common sight for travel admins to look at services and budget as the only criteria while finalizing the travel partners. However, this can easily backfire as there are numerous hidden charges attached to the cost of services with each booking. While the packages may seem decently priced, hidden costs make them highly costly after the final service has been delivered. Hence, travel admins should understand the contract fully before signing up for the services and bringing the travel agency on board.
3. Reducing the cost of travel
Corporate trips are vulnerable to dynamic pricing and supplier costs. Some of the corporate travel management companies are unable to find the best pricing and ways to minimize the cost of travel packages. There can be numerous reasons for the lost opportunity such as supplier relations, laid-back attitude, unskilled workforce, and client request overload, among others. Therefore, corporates should clear out their expectations and hire companies that have expertise in cost reduction and focus on dedication support.
4. Absence of a technology platform
Manual bookings and record-keeping have become a talk of the past. However, some travel management companies are not able to fully utilize the power of technology and travel management platforms. Most of them only use these online platforms to book their clients flights, hotels, or rails. However, the platforms are capable of effectively managing expenses, analyzing data patterns, understanding travel preferences, and much more. Additionally, this software helps in policy compliance that curtails the costs and maintains consistency with each trip. You should look for a travel management company that is diligent in using technology.
5. International coverage
As a standard practice, travel management companies provide support only in several countries while making bookings around the world. Without proper contacts in different regions of the world, they are unable to provide the support required by travelers. Top travel management companies focus highly on travelers’ safety and satisfaction; thereby, establishing contacts in most of the countries. They should partner with local organizations and 3rd party services to provide effective coverage in every part of the world.
Suggested Read: What is Corporate Travel Management Company: A Brief Guide
6. Personalization in the services
One of the key challenges in corporate travel is the lack of personalized services offered by many travel management companies. Every company has its unique requirements, preferences, and policies when it comes to business travel. However, not all travel agencies prioritize customization according to these specific needs. Personalization in corporate travel services involves customizing travel itineraries, accommodations, transportation, and other arrangements to align with the preferences and requirements of the traveling employees and the organization as a whole. Achieving personalization requires robust communication between the company and the travel agency. Travel management companies can make use of advanced technology and data analytics to understand and anticipate the unique needs of each traveler.
7. Sustainable goals
In today’s global business landscape, corporate sustainability has become a top priority for many organizations. This includes reducing carbon footprint, promoting eco-friendly practices, and supporting local communities. However, integrating sustainability goals into corporate travel can be challenging, especially when working with travel management companies that do not share the same values or lack the necessary expertise in sustainable travel. Travel management companies that prioritize sustainability can help companies achieve their environmental and corporate social responsibility objectives while also providing cost-effective and efficient travel solutions.
Conclusion
Choosing the right corporate travel company in the UAE involves navigating through various challenges. These include finding the right fit for your organization’s needs, managing costs effectively, leveraging technology platforms, ensuring international coverage, prioritizing personalization, and aligning with sustainable goals. Hopefully, the blog has answered your query about top challenges when choosing a corporate travel company in the UAE.
Suggested Read: How To Choose The Best Corporate Travel Tool For Your Company
Challenges When Choosing A corporate Travel Company FAQs
What are the key challenges faced by travel admins while hiring corporate travel company?
Dealing with hidden charges, minimizing travel costs, leveraging technology platforms, ensuring international coverage, prioritizing personalization, and aligning with sustainability goals.
How can I ensure that I choose the right corporate travel management company for my organization?
You should consider factors such as budget restrictions, data management capabilities, travel customizations, cost reduction expertise, dedication to support, technological proficiency, international network, and commitment to sustainability.
How can corporate travel management companies help in reducing the cost of travel?
Corporate travel management companies can negotiate better pricing with suppliers, optimize travel itineraries, implement policy compliance measures, and provide dedicated support to minimize unnecessary expenses.
