Claims management company Crawford has around 10,000 employees across more than 70 countries. Its global reach, plus the fact its employees can be sent anywhere in the world to handle claims, means it is acutely aware of geopolitical risks.
Kristina Goodman, director of employee benefits and wellness at Crawford and Company, explains: “The geopolitical landscape requires us to be more agile and responsive in how we support employees. To enable us to attract and motivate our employees, we take a localised approach, providing reward that fits with the economic, regulatory and cultural environment of each country.”
While this sensitivity to differences means reward is tailored to the individual market, some benefits are provided to all employees. “Every employee and their family has access to our global mental health support, Headspace, which supports them with everything from sleep and mindfulness to resilience,” she adds. “Life can be challenging so we’ve recently added coaching to this, enabling employees to access personal support 24/7.”
As well as looking after mental health and wellbeing, Crawford also provides a range of support to ensure employees safety when they are travelling for work. Central to this is its business travel insurance, which can respond to any setbacks, whether that is lost luggage or evacuating an employee if they get caught up in an emergency situation.
Pre-travel briefings are essential too, especially if an employee is going to an area where there is heightened risk. “We have some support and training that we can share with employees before an assignment,” says Goodman. “This makes them aware of any risks and cultural differences while they’re away.”
Increased geopolitical pressures also mean good communication is important. “There’s so much happening around the world, we have to be considerate of how it might affect employees. Being transparent and understanding employees’ needs can provide reassurance and security if they’re dealing with a difficult situation,” she adds.
