Rising Fuel Costs Has Some Seeking Jobs Closer to Home

Posted on November 2, 2005

A Manpower survey has found that rising fuel costs are making it more difficult for employee to get to work. The survey of 1,300 workers found that some workers are even looking for jobs closer to home. Here is list provided by Manpower of some of the ways employees are adjusting to rising gas prices.

Searching for a job closer to home 35%

Other 12% (i.e. driving more fuel efficient motorcycle, shortened driving route)

Increasing use of public transportation 6%

Purchased a more fuel efficient vehicle 5%

Carpooling 5%

Have changed jobs for a shorter commute 4.5%

Working from home or an alternate location 3.5%

No Change 29%

Long commutes to work are quickly falling out of fashion with gas prices in the $2.50 to $3 range. Manpower also offered some steps employers can take to avoid turnover attributed to the rising cost of commuting.

Provide employees with information about public transportation options, including bus and train routes, park and ride options and pricing details

Add onsite services, such as dry cleaning and banking

Offer telecommuting

Establish a corporate carpool program

Provide accommodations to support people who use other forms of transportation, such as bike racks, lockers and showers

Implement parking discounts to help balance the increased cost of fuel

Raise mileage reimbursement to the new rate announced by the Internal Revenue Service in September - 48.5 cents per mile (for use of personal vehicles for business travel)

Offering telecommuting and concierge services are likely to be attractive options for workers. They can save employees both gas money and time.