As businesses grow, many expand to different regions, setting up offices in various cities.

However, with expansion comes the challenge of keeping the company connected and whole. Managers and other employees are sent to other areas, where they rack up costs along the way. As a result of hotels, car rentals, flights and other fees, constantly sending employees abroad can be a costly expense for any business.

According to the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the forecast for 2012 is that companies will spend close to $261 billion in travel expenses.

So, is your business part of that staggering number or are you planning on keeping your travel efforts closer to home?

Easy Tips to Reduce Travel Costs

As many business owners know, travel expenses can quickly add up, causing quite a burden for the company.

Luckily, there are several tips that can help businesses and employees reduce their costs and fit traveling within a reasonable budget.

Flight Tickets:
Flights are often the major component of a business travel budget, costing over hundreds of dollars. However, there are a number of ways to reduce the costs of an expensive flight ticket. Generally, cheaper tickets are available well before the booking date; therefore, booking tickets well in advance can save a significant portion of money. Another way to save is to forego the first class ticket; instead, look for business class or even coach tickets.

Transportation:
Once the employee arrives at their destination, it may be a common practice to book a taxi or another transportation service. However, as the meter keeps ticking, the costs go up and up. One popular alternative is to use public transportation, a viable option once the employee is in the city. By using buses and subways, individuals can quickly move about the city without racking up exorbitant costs. If a car rental is the only option, then the employee can opt to choose a gas-efficient, smaller car that will last longer on a tank of gas.

Hotels:
There are a number of ways to save money once the individual arrives at their hotel. Choosing a hotel that offers a free breakfast can help reduce budget, as well as staying away from valet services. If the employee is staying a location for an extended period of time, a hotel room with a kitchen can also help save money. Another major cost comes with Internet: oftentimes, hotels will charge an exorbitant price for Wi-Fi connection. Avoid these costs by choosing a hotel with free Internet or heading to the nearest coffee shop.

Without careful planning, the costs of business travel can quickly rise and add up.

Avoid the headaches of budget planning by choosing alternatives to offset travel expenses.

Photo Credit: askmen.com

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When most people think of the interview process, they first consider the viewpoint of the applicant, who is trying to make a good impression.

However, most people fail to consider the other side: the employer who must go through tens of hundreds of applicants during the recruiting process to find the right one.

Given the sheer amount of applicants that pass through the interview cycle, it is easy to see how employers can lose track of individuals.

Employers must sift through hundreds of resumes and sit through many interviews before meeting the right candidate. However, employers can generally determine whether an applicant is or is not qualified, based on a few signs.

While sitting through interviews, employers and HR representatives quickly notice the following:

Appearance –
Employers can pick up a great deal of information based simply on appearance. Body language and posture conveys a message of its own, despite the intentions of the applicant. For example, slouching can display a lazy or uninterested demeanor, while an erect posture can convey interest and attentiveness. Based on first impressions, employers can quickly sort between prospective employees.

Personality –
When employers are interviewing an applicant, they generally determine whether the applicant will be a good fit for the team or company. Once the employer begins to ask questions, the applicant’s personality begins to show. If the applicant is boring, shy, or doesn’t possess a sense of humor, their chances of proceeding through the next round are extremely slim. Therefore, applicants should make sure that they are friendly and personable, in order to leave a good impression.

Background –
Applicants that have outstanding job experience or interesting stories have a greater chance of standing out. Employers, who often have to sit through multiple interviews, quickly gravitate towards fascinating individuals. A notable applicant is likely to stay on the employer’s mind, well past the interview. Applicants can also expect to receive background checks, especially with today’s enhanced concerns regarding security.

Interest –
Employers are looking for prospective employees that are enthusiastic and deeply interested in the company and industry. Therefore, they look for applicants that are knowledgeable about the company, and ask engaging questions. Remember, employers are looking for individuals who will fit with their team and culture. Asking questions shows that the applicant is active, not simply looking for a salary.

The interview process can be a stressful experience for both parties. However, by conveying confidence and enthusiasm, applicants can make a favorable impression on potential employers. If successful, the applicant can turn an interview into a discussion on employment.

Photo credit: collegegrad.com

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