Suffering from Commuter Shock?

We all know that nowadays going to fill up at the gas pump is the equivalent of grudgingly asking mixed-martial artist Randy Couture to punch you in the gut and then place you into a submission-inducing headlock. But if you have to commute to work, and carpooling and public transportation aren’t possible, you really have no other choice but to close your eyes and take the hit.

In a recent survey by the staffing firm Robert Half International (RHI), almost half of U.S. professionals (44%) said higher gas prices are affecting their commutes, up from 34% two years ago. However, employers, for the most part, aren’t turning a blind eye to the staggering fuel prices. The RHI report also states that companies are rolling out incentives that include a flexible work schedule (26%), telecommuting (18%), and public transit discounts (14%).

Are you thinking, “how do I get a job that does that?” Well, how about contacting MetaTech and letting us work to find a career that is perfect for you – both professionally and personally. However, if you are happy with your job for now, there are a few things you can do to convince your employer about adopt fuel-friendly policies:

• Check with Human Resources. "Ask your HR rep if there are existing [commuter assistance] policies, because there may well be, even if they aren't widely recognized," says Alexandra Levit, author of "How'd You Score That Gig? A Guide to the Coolest Careers and How to Get Them." Your request may also prompt HR to take action, as the business case for such incentives is strong, Levit says.
• Highlight the upside for the company. "You should put a positive spin on your request to the boss or to HR," says Liz Bywater, president of the Bywater Consulting Group, which helps improve organizational performance. "Companies that offer such incentives may be seen as environmentally conscious and employee-friendly. And remember that your employer would rather have you ask for this than ask for a raise or quit because you can't afford to commute," adds Levit.
• Check with your city. Local agencies may offer transportation incentive programs that employers can tap, according to Terry Pile, president of Career Advisors and author of "Working in Your Slippers: Is Telecommuting Right for You? Some cities require large employers to reduce the number of cars on their campuses by a certain percentage and provide them with assistance in putting together an alternative commuting program," she says.
• Make a proposal. "You could put together a cost analysis in support of telecommuting one or two days a week," Pile says, adding that studies have shown that telecommuting saves employers on parking and office space, productivity, and absentee costs. "If the employer can see a positive impact on the bottom line, you'll get better reception for a telecommuting program." Pile's advice may work for other programs, such as carpooling or flexible schedules.
• Control what you can. Even if your employer is not receptive to changing, find ways to increase your savings and efficiency. "Look at how you might save on gas outside of work by planning your errands efficiently, and walking or taking public transit when you can," says Pile. "You must find a way to live with the situation without anxiety," Levit concludes. "If you're strapped for cash, balance things out by taking away one expense you can tolerate -- such as dining out one meal per week. The increase in fuel costs is a hardship, no doubt, but it's not the same dire scenario as being unemployed or facing bankruptcy."

… And if none of these tips work you can always try your hand (or I guess it would be your feet) at commuting via roller shoes.