Blog - Errandables

25 March

Personal Shopping and Errands in Home Care

Enhance quality of life with personalized home care – personal shopping and errands tailored to your needs. Empowering independence and convenience.

Personal Shopping Services

When it comes to personal shopping and errands in home care, having access to dedicated personal shoppers can greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals who may have difficulty navigating stores or running errands on their own. Personal shopping services typically involve a designated individual, often called a personal shopper or assistant, who helps individuals with their shopping needs, tailoring their services based on the specific requirements and preferences of the individual.

Role of Personal Shopper

A personal shopper plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with their shopping needs. They can provide valuable support by handling various aspects of shopping, such as grocery shopping, purchasing household supplies, picking up medications, or running other essential errands. Depending on the individual’s preferences and circumstances, personal shoppers can either shop in person at local stores or utilize online platforms for their purchases [1].

By engaging a personal shopper, individuals can save valuable time and energy. The personal shopper takes care of tasks like navigating crowded stores, researching products, comparing prices, and making purchases on behalf of the individual. This allows individuals to focus on other important aspects of their lives while having confidence that their shopping needs are being handled efficiently and effectively.

Tailored Shopping Assistance

One of the key benefits of personal shopping services is the ability to receive tailored assistance. Personal shoppers understand that each individual has unique requirements and preferences. They take the time to understand these specific needs and customize their services accordingly. This can include considerations such as dietary restrictions, brand preferences, or specific item requirements.

Personal shoppers provide access to their expertise and resources, offering guidance on product quality, suitability, and reliability. They are aware of special offers, promotions, or discounts, enabling individuals to make cost-effective choices. By empowering individuals with information, personal shoppers enable them to make well-informed decisions and select products that meet their specific needs and preferences.

In addition to the practical assistance, personal shopping services also offer emotional support. Personal shoppers often build meaningful relationships with their clients, providing companionship and a sense of familiarity during the shopping experience. This can be particularly valuable for individuals who may be isolated or have limited social interactions.

By utilizing personal shopping services, individuals can experience the convenience and reassurance of having a dedicated assistant who understands their unique needs and preferences. This tailored shopping assistance not only saves time and energy but also contributes to an enhanced quality of life for individuals receiving home care services.

Errand Services in Home Care

Errand services play a crucial role in home care by providing essential assistance with various tasks and errands that individuals may find challenging to complete on their own. These services are designed to promote independence and reduce the burden on individuals and their caregivers, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives. By alleviating the stress and time associated with running errands, individuals can have more time and energy for activities they enjoy.

Importance of Errand Services

Errand services in home care offer assistance with a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to:

Grocery shopping: Errand services can help with grocery shopping, ensuring that individuals have access to fresh and healthy food without the need to leave their home.
Prescription pickups: Errand services can assist in picking up medications from pharmacies, ensuring individuals have access to their necessary medications.
Mailing packages: Errand services can help with mailing packages, saving individuals the time and effort involved in going to the post office.
Paying bills: Errand services can assist in paying bills, helping individuals manage their financial responsibilities.
Other essential errands: Errand services can provide support with various other essential errands, such as banking tasks, dry cleaning pickups, and more.

By taking care of these tasks, errand services in home care allow individuals to focus on their well-being and other aspects of their lives, reducing stress and increasing peace of mind. It also promotes independence by enabling individuals to remain in the comfort of their homes while having their errands and tasks taken care of. This personalized approach to home care ensures that individuals receive the support they need while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.

Tasks Covered by Errand Services

Errand services in home care involve a dedicated individual or team who assist individuals with running errands and completing tasks outside of their home. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs and preferences of each individual, providing a personalized approach to home care. The tasks covered by errand services may include:

Grocery shopping and deliveries
Prescription pickups and drop-offs
Mailing packages and letters
Paying bills and managing finances
Banking tasks and paperwork
Dry cleaning pickups and drop-offs
Transportation assistance for social outings

The coordination of schedules, transportation, and logistics is handled by the errand service providers to ensure a smooth and efficient experience for individuals. This allows individuals to focus on their well-being and enjoy their daily activities without the added stress of managing errands independently.

Errand services in home care play a vital role in promoting the overall well-being of individuals by providing practical support, reducing the burden on individuals and their caregivers, and promoting independence. By taking care of essential errands, these services contribute to stress relief and peace of mind, allowing individuals to maintain a balanced lifestyle while receiving the necessary support. For more information on home care services, check out our comprehensive guide to private pay home care.

Impact on Quality of Life

Personal shopping and errand services in home care have a significant impact on the quality of life for individuals receiving care. These services provide convenience, access to essential items, emotional support, and foster independence, allowing individuals to lead fulfilling lives while receiving necessary assistance.

Convenience and Access

Utilizing personal shopping and errand services in home care offers numerous benefits, including convenience and access to necessary items. These services ensure that individuals have access to groceries, medications, and other essential supplies without the need to leave their home. This is particularly valuable for individuals with mobility limitations or those who may face challenges in accessing stores or transportation for social outings [3].

By having a personal shopper or caregiver assist with shopping and errands, individuals can save time and energy, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives. Whether it’s picking up prescriptions, running errands, or shopping for groceries, these services provide a sense of ease and convenience, ensuring that individuals have what they need to maintain their health and well-being.

Emotional Support and Independence

In addition to the practical benefits, personal shopping and errand services also provide emotional support and foster independence. For individuals receiving home care, it can be challenging to handle everyday tasks alone. Having someone there to assist with shopping and errands not only reduces feelings of isolation but also promotes a sense of belonging and companionship.

Personal shoppers and caregivers who provide these services play a vital role in the lives of individuals by offering companionship and emotional support. They can engage in friendly conversations, provide reassurance, and offer a helping hand, which contributes to the overall well-being of the individual.

Furthermore, personal shopping and errand services in home care allow individuals to maintain their independence and autonomy. By receiving support with these tasks, individuals can continue to make their own choices and maintain control over their lives, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives while receiving the necessary assistance.

By enhancing convenience, providing emotional support, and fostering independence, personal shopping and errand services have a positive impact on the quality of life for individuals receiving home care. These services ensure that individuals can continue to engage in activities they enjoy, maintain their routines, and focus on their overall well-being, leading to a better quality of life overall.

Benefits of Home Care Services

When it comes to personal shopping and errands in home care, the benefits extend beyond mere convenience. These services offer invaluable support to individuals with limited mobility or other challenges, alleviating stress and burden, while fostering independence and fulfillment.

Alleviating Stress and Burden

For individuals receiving home care, managing daily tasks and errands can often become overwhelming. Personal shopping and errand services step in to lighten the load, providing assistance with various tasks and errands that individuals may find challenging to complete on their own. By entrusting these responsibilities to trained professionals, individuals and their caregivers can focus on other essential aspects of care and well-being.

The alleviation of stress and burden is especially significant for family caregivers who may already be juggling multiple responsibilities. With personal shopping and errand services, the weight of managing these tasks is lifted, allowing caregivers to dedicate more quality time to their loved ones. This can lead to reduced caregiver burnout and an overall improved caregiving experience.

Fostering Independence and Fulfillment

Maintaining independence is a fundamental aspect of a fulfilling life, and personal shopping and errand services in home care play a crucial role in promoting independence. By providing assistance tailored to the unique needs of individuals, these services enable individuals to continue living in their own homes and communities, even when faced with physical limitations. This fosters a sense of empowerment and autonomy, enhancing their overall quality of life.

By having access to reliable personal shoppers and assistance with errands, individuals can continue to engage in their preferred activities, pursue hobbies, and socialize with friends and family. It reduces feelings of isolation and ensures that individuals have access to essential items for maintaining their health and well-being [1]. This level of support enables individuals to lead fulfilling lives while receiving the necessary assistance they require.

In addition to personal shopping and errand services, home care services encompass a wide range of support systems to cater to the unique needs of individuals. These services include assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), transportation for social outings, home care maintenance coordination, cognitive stimulation activities, and empowering clients through education. Together, these services contribute to a comprehensive and holistic approach to home care, enhancing the well-being and quality of life for individuals and their caregivers.

By utilizing personal shopping and errand services in home care, individuals and their caregivers can experience a renewed sense of relief and security. These services not only provide practical assistance but also contribute to the overall emotional well-being and independence of individuals.

Cost Considerations

When considering personal shopping and errand services as part of home care, it’s important to understand the cost implications. The cost of these services can vary significantly based on factors such as the level of services required, necessitating an assessment of specific needs to plan and allocate resources effectively while managing costs [6]. By understanding the varied service costs and planning for personalized care, individuals and their caregivers can make informed decisions regarding home care services.

Varied Service Costs

The cost of home care services, including personal shopping and errand services, can vary depending on several factors. These factors may include the geographic location, the level of care required, the duration and frequency of services, and the specific agency or provider. It’s essential to consult with home care agencies or providers to obtain accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

In some cases, insurance coverage or government programs such as Medicaid or Veterans benefits may help offset the cost of home care services. Additionally, long-term care insurance policies may provide coverage for personal care and companionship services. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of insurance policies and consult with insurance providers to understand coverage options and potential reimbursement for home care services [7].

Planning for Personalized Care

To effectively plan for personalized care and manage the cost of home care services, it’s crucial to assess specific needs and goals. By evaluating the level of assistance required for personal shopping and errands, individuals and their caregivers can determine the frequency and duration of these services. This assessment helps in aligning services with the budget and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately.

Consulting with home care agencies or providers can provide valuable guidance in developing a personalized care plan while considering financial constraints. These professionals can offer insights into cost-effective options and help find a balance between the needed level of care and available resources. Planning for personalized care involves understanding the individual’s preferences, medical conditions, and budgetary considerations to ensure that the services provided meet their unique needs.

By considering the varied service costs and planning for personalized care, individuals and caregivers can make informed decisions regarding personal shopping and errand services in home care. Assessing specific needs, exploring available resources, and consulting with professionals in the field can help create a care plan that meets both the individual’s requirements and their financial circumstances. It’s important to remember that the cost of home care services should be viewed in the context of the benefits they provide, such as convenience, support, and improved quality of life.

Caregivers and Support

When it comes to home care, individuals may receive care and support from either family or professional caregivers. Understanding the differences between these two types of caregivers is crucial in ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate care and support tailored to their needs.

Family vs. Professional Caregivers

Family caregivers refer to unpaid individuals, often family members, who take on the responsibility of providing care and support to their loved ones. They offer their time, energy, and emotional support to ensure the well-being of their family members. While family caregivers may have an intimate understanding of the individual’s preferences and needs, they may lack formal training in caregiving techniques.

On the other hand, professional caregivers are individuals who have received formal training and certification to provide care and support to individuals in need. They possess the necessary skills and knowledge to address various aspects of caregiving, including personal care, companionship, and homemaking services. Professional caregivers work in a variety of settings, such as private homes, rehab facilities, assisted living communities, outpatient clinics, nursing homes, and hospitals. They are equipped to handle diverse caregiving tasks and are often trained to provide assistance with activities of daily living [9].

Providing Adequate Care and Support

Both family and professional caregivers play a crucial role in providing care and support to individuals in need. Good caregivers, regardless of their background, share qualities such as compassion, patience, empathy, reliability, trustworthiness, and excellent communication skills. They understand the unique needs and preferences of the individuals they care for and provide assistance with various tasks, such as personal care, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation. In the case of professional caregivers, they often undergo training and certification to ensure they possess the necessary skills to provide quality care.

Professional caregivers, employed by reputable senior home care companies, offer “private-duty” client care services. These caregivers can be trained as companion caregivers, home health aides (HHAs), or certified nursing aides (CNAs) depending on the specific requirements of the care recipient. The training requirements for caregivers may vary by state, ensuring that they meet the necessary standards to provide care.

Providing adequate care and support requires caregivers to be physically fit and in good health to handle tasks such as client lifting and transporting. Additionally, caregivers must possess the skills, passion, and commitment to serve clients cheerfully, even on challenging days. Whether it’s a family caregiver or a professional caregiver, their goal is to ensure the well-being and comfort of the individuals they care for [9].

In conclusion, while family caregivers provide unpaid care, professional caregivers undergo formal training to provide specialized care and support. Both types of caregivers play a vital role in meeting the needs of individuals in home care settings. Whether it’s a family member or a professional caregiver, the key is to provide compassionate, reliable, and personalized care to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of the individuals receiving care.

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21 March

Why and How to hire virtual assistant in 2025

In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, the role of virtual assistants has changed dramatically. The decision to hire a virtual assistant in 2025 is about more than just assigning tasks; rather, it’s about actively increasing your ability to operate while keeping costs down and flexibility high. This thorough guide examines the reasons behind the increasing importance of virtual assistants as well as how to choose and hire the best one for your requirements.

From small startups to multinational corporations, businesses need to hire virtual assistants because nowadays it is not a luxury but has become a necessity. Business owners and corporations can concentrate on their core competencies as these proficient experts can manage a diverse range of responsibilities. Whether you need help with administrative jobs, specialized work, or operational efficiency, a virtual assistant can help you accomplish more in less time.

Signs You Need to Hire a Virtual Assistant

Many people and organizations are in need of more assistance due to the growing demands on their time and resources. We’ll go through the specific and unmistakable indicators that it’s the best time to hire a virtual assistant below.

Struggling to Meet Deadlines

Your business might succeed or fail based on deadlines. It is obvious that you are overworked if you are constantly rushing to finish tasks on time or turning in assignments late. A virtual assistant may help you with everyday chores, scheduling management, and making sure you don’t have to worry about missing deadlines.

How a VA Can Assist:

Set priorities for your workload.
Manage deadlines and send out reminders.
Take care of the administrative duties that take up your precious time.

Overwhelmed by Administrative Tasks

Even if it’s necessary, administrative labor can significantly exhaust your energy and concentration. Email responses, file organization, and document preparation are just a few of the tasks that can accumulate and leave you with limited time for strategic endeavors.

How a VA Can Assist:

Organize your inbox by classifying, responding to, and marking critical emails.
To keep your calendar organized, set up appointments and meetings.
Create presentations, contracts, or reports.

Losing Focus on Core Strengths

Your greatest advantages as a professional or business owner are your key competencies. It’s important to reevaluate your priorities if you find yourself devoting more time to routine duties than to strategic endeavors.

How a VA Can Assist:

Take on responsibilities on things that fall beyond your area of expertise.
Let you focus on developing your abilities or expanding your business.
Manage daily tasks as you concentrate on long-term choices.

Constantly Drowning in Emails

It sometimes seems impossible to overcome a packed inbox. You need support if you spend hours going through emails and still feel like you’re lagging behind.

How a VA Can Assist:

Sort and filter your emails.
Answer standard questions on your behalf.
For efficiency, set up and maintain email templates.

Difficulty Managing Your Schedule

Are your days filled with double-booked appointments, missed deadlines, or back-to-back meetings? Missed opportunities and needless stress can result from poor schedule management.

How a VA Can Assist:

Organize your schedule to avoid conflicts.
Send out reminders for significant occasions and meetings.
Schedules should be modified to reflect your priorities.

Neglecting Social Media Presence

A solid online presence is essential for success in the current digital era. You may be losing out on important chances to engage with your audience if your social media accounts are erratic or inactive.

How a VA Can Assist:

Make and plan content across various platforms.
Address to comments and messages to engage with your followers.
Analyze data to enhance social media tactics.

Need for Better Lead Generation

Although it might be a time-consuming procedure, lead generation is necessary to expand businesses. Hire a virtual assistant if you’re having trouble keeping your sales pipeline full.

How a VA Can Assist:

Find possible leads by conducting research.
Control the instruments used for customer relationship management (CRM).
To foster relationships, follow up with potential customers.

Struggling with Content Creation

The process of generating content can be taxing and time-consuming. It can seem like a full-time job to keep up a regular content strategy, from creating emails to writing blog entries.

How a VA Can Assist:

Compose and modify emails, blogs, and captions for social media.
Make eye-catching presentations or graphics.
Make a content calendar and follow it through.

Increasing Customer Support Demands

The number of consumer questions and support requests increases as your company expands. Ignoring customer service can cost you opportunities and damage your reputation.

How a VA Can Assist:

Answer consumer questions as soon as possible.
Address problems and offer fixes.
Keep all of your communications polite and professional.

Difficulty Managing Finances

Without the right assistance, managing budgets, bills, and spending may become quite difficult. It is obvious that you need assistance if managing your finances seems stressful.

How a VA Can Assist:

Keep tabs on spending and budgets.
Make invoices and send them.
Arrange financial documents for convenient access.

Falling Behind on Event Planning

It takes careful coordination to plan workshops, webinars, or events. If you’re having trouble managing logistics, a virtual assistant can help.

How a VA Can Assist:

Arrange speakers, attendees, and schedules.
Oversee communications and registration for events.

Limited Availability for Growth Opportunities

You lose out on chances to develop and create when your daily responsibilities take up all of your time. This is a clear sign that you need help.

How a VA Can Assist:

Make time in your schedule to try new things.
Conduct market research to find areas for expansion.
Take responsibility of everyday tasks so you can focus on growing your company.

How to Hire a Virtual Assistant?

The next stage is to select the best candidate for your needs after you’ve identified the warning indications that you need a virtual assistant.

Know Your Tasks to Outsource

Before hiring a virtual assistant, decide which responsibilities you wish to assign. Customer service, lead generation, content production, social media management, and administrative tasks are typical domains. Finding the ideal match is made easier if you are clear about your needs.

Know Your Budget

Decide on how much you are willing to pay for a virtual assistant. Depending on expertise level, task complexity, and whether the VA works full-time or part-time, budgets can change.

Create a Job Description

A well-defined job description is necessary to draw in the best applicants. Add your expectations, a list of duties, and the skills you’re searching for. For instance, include platform, scheduling, and analytics expertise if you are planning to hire a virtual assistant for social media.

Meet with Candidates

Set up interviews as soon as you receive applications to evaluate each applicant’s qualifications, background, and suitability. Find someone who can contribute effectively and who understands your aims.

Make Your Expectations Clear

To prevent such misunderstandings, establish expectations early on. Give a clear description of your working hours, deadlines, methods of contact, and performance indicators.

Communication is Key

Effective and regular communication has become a necessity to a successful working relationship with your VA. Plan frequent check-ins to discuss developments, solicit comments, and make sure you’re on track.

Advantages to Hire Virtual Assistant in 2025

Nowadays virtual assistant play a key role in the progress of any organization. Following are some advantages that you can get if you hire a virtual assistant in 2025.

Cost Effective

When you hire a virtual assistant rather than a full-time worker, you can save a lot of money. By using VAs, you can avoid paying for things like office space, benefits, and equipment because you simply pay for the hours worked or the specific tasks finished.

Benefits

reduced overhead expenses.
availability of qualified experts without long-term agreements.
flexibility in terms of pay as you go for tasks or projects.

Saves Time

You can recover hours lost on tedious and time-consuming jobs by using a virtual assistant. You can concentrate on higher-value tasks by assigning operational, artistic, or administrative tasks to others.

Benefits

quicker completion of tasks.
more time to concentrate on strategic objectives.
increased output.

Hire Worldwide

Geographical boundaries vanish while using virtual assistants. Hiring people from around the world gives you access to a wide range of qualified experts who can be adapted to your needs.

Benefits

Collaborate with professionals across time zones.
Discover specific abilities without regard to regional restrictions.
Extend the cultural perspectives of your staff.

Improve Your Work life Balance

By taking over duties that take up too much of your daily schedule, virtual assistants might help you strike a better balance between your personal and professional lives.

Benefits

less burnout and stress.
more time for personal interests and family time.
increased attention to your favorite hobbies.

Grow Your Online Presence

For professionals and businesses alike, keeping an active internet presence is essential. Through analytics, content production, and social media management, virtual assistants may assist you in creating and expanding your online presence.

Benefits

regular and interesting posts on social media.
improved SEO tactics and content for websites.
enhancements to internet campaigns based on data.

Regular Reporting

To help you remain updated and make data-driven decisions, virtual assistants can offer comprehensive reports on tasks, projects, or company indicators.

Benefits

lucid information on the performance of the firm.
reports that are well-organized and useful.
more accountability and transparency.

High Quality of Work

Virtual assistants are experts in their domains, providing knowledge and focus that guarantee jobs are finished to a high degree.

Benefits

results of a professional caliber.
decreased rework and errors.
access to specific abilities such as writing, bookkeeping, or graphic design.

Streamline Your Operation

You may increase productivity and guarantee seamless operations by organizing and streamlining your processes with the aid of a virtual assistant.

Benefits

improved management and delegation of tasks.
streamlined procedures and workflows.
quicker project completion timeframes.

Customer Care 24/7

Offering top-notch customer service around-the-clock is essential for keeping customers and earning their trust. Virtual assistants are effective in responding to consumer complaints, questions, and support requests.

Benefits

increased client satisfaction.
quicker reaction times.
24/7 accessibility without the need for a full-time staff.

Scale Up or Down

Virtual assistants provide you the freedom to modify your workforce to suit your needs, whether you’re expanding your company or temporarily cutting it down.

Benefits

Adjust to shifting workloads with ease.
Support can be increased or decreased without drawn-out hiring procedures.
economical scaling for short-term initiatives.

Conclusion

By 2025, if you are planning to hire a virtual assistant then it is not just a wise business move; it’s a game-changing tactic for increasing productivity, cutting expenses, and improving workflow in general. Virtual assistants are essential in today’s fast-paced business world, whether they are helping you manage administrative duties, improve your web presence, or allow you to better concentrate on your core skills. You can gain more flexibility, regain critical time, and scale your business with ease by utilizing their experience. In an ever-changing digital landscape, embracing the potential of virtual assistants enables you to remain competitive, balanced, and focused on reaching your personal and professional goals.

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17 March

Top 6 Short-Term Rental Trends and Predictions for 2025

The short-term rental market trends for 2025 are already making waves!

Staying ahead of the curve is key to thriving in this competitive industry. That’s why we turned to our team of vacation rental experts at Beyond to get the scoop on what’s coming next.

From emerging traveler preferences to pricing strategies that keep you competitive, our team shares their top predictions and practical tips for hosts and property managers to crush it in 2025. Whatever stage your vacation rental business is at, this is the advice you need to stay ahead.

1. Winning Market Shifts with Real-Time Demand Data and Automation

Julie Brinkman, CEO

2025 belongs to those who actively listen to what travelers seek – instead of relying on historical trends or paradigms. Today’s travelers are using the latest tools, like AI trip planners, to help them find unique and memorable experiences. This is a perfect opportunity for hosts to meet travelers where they are by showcasing how their property, space, and amenities are one of a kind. Short-term rentals inherently have a leg up over other accommodation providers because of their unique nature, and it’s up to us to keep this edge by embracing traveler trends. The only way to do this is to use innovative, AI-powered solutions that automate real-time insights into personalized, flexible experiences travelers expect.

As we move toward 2025, the competition isn’t just between short-term rental operators in the same market; it’s the entire stays industry, from hotels to hostels to campsites and glamp-sites. Competing effectively means embracing and translating real-time insights to match traveler desires. Based on data and the latest trends, we know that travelers are craving authentic, personalized experiences that connect them to the places they visit – not just a place to sleep.

From guest communications to unit maintenance to supply shifts to weather unpredictability, a host has to manage hundreds of inputs on any given day. And the savviest Hosts are using technology to automate both the mundane and complex tasks of managing their short term rental. The hosts of 2025 will expect that the tools they use will make their life easier and richer – not harder and less effective. Technology that not only predicts, but automates action is critical to winning the market.

2. How Tech and Investment Will Shape 2025

Maria Flores Portillo, CRO

As I look ahead to 2025, the blurring of lines between traditional hotels and short-term rentals (STRs) will not only persist but intensify, fueled by investor interest across both sectors. Hotel investors are now actively exploring STRs as growth assets, while experienced STR operators are moving toward whole-building acquisitions to protect against regulatory shifts. This trend underscores a clear market demand for flexible, diversified accommodation options—and it’s only gaining momentum.

Technology, especially AI and machine learning, will play a pivotal role in this shift. We’ve seen impressive advancements in revenue management tools that allow for sharper, data-driven decisions in real-time. By automating repetitive tasks, AI is empowering revenue managers to focus on strategic growth rather than just operational work. Additionally, AI’s ability to forecast demand with real-time data—rather than relying solely on historical trends—brings greater accuracy. This is a game-changer for pricing and occupancy strategies, giving businesses the resilience to navigate market shifts with a steady hand.

While outsourced revenue management and basic, budget tech solutions gained popularity last year, I see this trend fading as STR operators realize the need for a deeper understanding of revenue strategy. Rather than outsourcing, businesses need to invest in tech that truly simplifies decision-making and allows internal teams to stay in control of their strategy. When applied effectively, smarter tech doesn’t just operate a thousand buttons—it aligns with a business’s strategic goals and empowers its teams. This shift will be essential as businesses adapt to a smarter, more sustainable model in the year ahead.

Constructive Regulation

In Europe, regulatory discussions are increasingly focusing on enhancing the quality and social benefits of STRs within communities. Unlike incredibly restrictive regulations like those in New York City, which often benefit hotels more than STRs, emerging frameworks could emphasize sustainable integration of STRs. Such regulations could support local neighborhoods, ensure high standards for guests, and foster a balanced dialogue between STRs and the community.

3. Authenticity Over Everything: Gen Z and Millennials Demand Realness in Travel Experiences for 2025

Ryan Saylor, Director of Product Marketing:

Next year, Millennials and Gen Z travelers are poised to be the largest force shaping travel, bringing with them an unyielding demand for authenticity and trust. With a wealth of options ranging from hotels to vacation rentals and everything in between, these travelers seek immersive, shareable experiences that match up to their expectations—and they’re quick to detect when properties fall short of their online promises. Social media has heightened awareness of the “expectation vs. reality” gap, where polished listings sometimes reveal disappointing realities IRL. Travelers from these generations are more attuned to misleading “catfishing” than ever before—where properties that look ideal in photos fall short upon arrival.

Beyond’s latest international traveler survey underscores this shift: nearly 90% of travelers would lose trust in an accommodation if a listing misrepresented itself, and more than two-thirds would actively share those experiences on social media or online travel forums. This highlights a key prediction for 2025: hospitality pros must step up with transparent, high-quality offerings that truly reflect what’s promised online. Platforms that prioritize honest listings, reliable reviews, and influencer-led endorsements will resonate deeply with this demographic, whose preference for authentic, shareable moments has set a new standard for travel experiences.

4. Go Where The Locals Go

Jess Kelso, Senior Director, Host Segment

In 2025, travelers will venture off the well-worn paths and embrace unique, under-the-radar destinations that offer a richer, more personal alternative to the usual tourist hotspots. Imagine choosing Bilbao over Barcelona, or heading to Ulaanbaatar, Nairobi, or Madeira—destinations that are now more accessible than ever, thanks to new direct flight routes. These somewhat lesser-known spots can be incredibly attractive for budget-conscious travelers as they often allow for meaningful, affordable experiences with a local touch. With social media influencers highlighting these hidden gems, now is the time to travel there – and get in before everyone else!

For property owners in these emerging destinations, this shift is a huge opportunity. Guests will be increasingly drawn to places that offer something unique, going beyond things like offering eco-friendly amenities to search for stays where they can create genuine connections and feel deeply integrated with the local culture. Whether that means sourcing local products, recommending undiscovered cafes, or curating immersive cultural experiences, the winning formula is creating an environment that feels warm, personalized, and unique.

This trend is perfectly suited to solo travelers craving quiet retreats, couples looking for affordable authenticity, and groups wanting shared adventures that aren’t prepackaged. For hosts, welcoming guests of all backgrounds with a fresh, inclusive approach will be essential in the coming year. In 2025, the travel experience will be a true blend of exploration, value, and genuine connection.

5. 2025: The Year of Standout Stays

Jeffrey Breece, Director of Revenue Management and Data Science

As we look ahead, the short-term rental market is poised to turn around, particularly in the U.S., with mild year-over-year growth anticipated. I expect markets to outperform 2024, driven by trends that echo pre-pandemic patterns, particularly in 2019. Notably, lead times will be a bit shorter, but seasonal booking curves will mimic those of 2019 though with an upward shift of about 10% from the growth in prices, indicating a shift back towards historical trends.

However, not all properties or vacation rental businesses will see this growth. Listings that are more average, think your basic 2-bedroom property in a suburb, may face challenges this year. Properties like this will face a tough time standing out and attracting guests to book. On the other hand, larger or unique properties that stand out will be thriving – properties that can accommodate large groups, have standout amenities, and even themed properties in tourist destinations.

According to Beyond’s data, listings with four or more bedrooms are experiencing the most substantial growth year over year, alongside those featuring distinctive amenities. Properties commanding premium rates of over $1,000 per night have shown remarkable resilience, maintaining their revenue levels even amid fluctuations.

Notably, income performance is not uniform; understanding the market’s elasticity is crucial. In a flat market, knowing when to adjust rates—lowering them on specific days to boost bookings and raising them when demand is high—will be key to maximizing revenue.

2025 promises renewed growth in the short-term rental sector, particularly for those who focus on leveraging data and insights to navigate the evolving landscape. By investing in unique, high-demand properties and adopting strategic pricing techniques, stakeholders can position themselves favorably for the future.

6. The Key to Revenue Growth Lies in Reasonable ADR Strategies

Marki Carlson, Strategic Customer Success Manager

To maximize profits next year, keeping your Average Daily Rates (ADR) balanced will be key. Fair pricing drives bookings, boosts occupancy, and appeals to today’s price-conscious travelers navigating high consumer costs and inflation. With travelers increasingly focused on getting the best value, a thoughtful ADR strategy ensures your calendar fills up and guests feel their money goes further.

Consider reasonable ADRs for future bookings, too. This reduces the need for last-minute discounts, which can set unrealistic expectations for repeat guests. With smart pricing now, you’ll attract steady bookings and create a strong, future-proof rate structure.

As occupancy rises, flexibility with length of stay requirements will be crucial, especially if your rates are on the higher side. Today’s guests are feeling financial pressure from many angles and want good value for their money. If they can’t find it domestically, they may start looking at international options, where they often find prices more appealing and their dollar stretches further.

I’ve seen this strategy work across various vacation rental markets, particularly in more traditional areas like the Florida Panhandle and the Alabama Gulf Coast. Even with lower ADRs, properties in these regions have seen revenues up by 29% for their peak summer season (June-August) and even 44% ahead for the May-August period compared to last year. This shows that even with lower ADRs, revenue can still outperform expectations.

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15 March

Why you need a real estate assistant in 2025

Running a real estate business independently is hard work. Between collecting data from real estate listings and following up on prospects, realtors hardly have time for themselves or other business opportunities.

Hiring a real estate assistant can help realtors cope with their responsibilities better. Many renowned business process outsourcing (BPO) companies like errandables offer real estate assistant services as the demand for the role increases.

If you’re new to real estate or are considering hiring a real estate assistant, this article will help you learn more about it.

What is a real estate assistant?

Simply put, a real estate assistant is a virtual assistant (VA) who helps realtors with their work.

These real estate VAs may assist with administrative tasks, such as:

Scheduling appointments
Proofreading documents
Managing the agent’s calendar

They may also handle clerical jobs, including:

Writing and organizing papers
Conducting research
Fielding calls

Real estate assistants can help with more specialized tasks, too. They can post listings online and help market their employer’s business on social media.

In short, a real estate VA helps real estate agents become more efficient by taking over the more mundane tasks for them. Doing so lets these agents focus on the core aspects of their real estate business (e.g., closing deals and selling properties).

What can a real estate assistant do?

As stated earlier, real estate assistants can help realtors with various tasks. Their responsibilities can range from repetitive back-office functions to more complex ones.

Below are examples of work you can delegate to a real estate assistant:

Data entry

Real estate agents have to manage tons of data regularly. Whether these are property details, client information, or financial records, documenting and keeping track of them is essential.

However, combing through hundreds of data pages and transferring them to a database is time-consuming.

Assigning this job to real estate assistants can help realtors save plenty of time they could otherwise spend working with clients.

Customer care

A real estate assistant isn’t suitable for mundane tasks only. You can have them do follow-up calls for prospective clients or field calls inbound calls.

Doing so can help you keep your clients from feeling neglected and lessen the chances of having them turn to other real estate agents.

Appointment setting

If you’re in a real estate company, chances are you always have your days fully booked. Real estate assistants can significantly help manage your time using scheduling tools.

They can manage your calendar and ensure no overlapping hours between client meetings or property tours.

Marketing

You can also count on your real estate VA to assist with marketing your real estate business on social media platforms. They can help you run campaigns, respond to queries, and publish relevant content on your business’s social media profile.

Benefits of having a real estate assistant

Aside from having an extra pair of hands to help you, there are other benefits to employing a real estate assistant. Below are a few of them:

Increased productivity

Having a real estate assistant take over your business’s administrative and clerical processes means you can focus on revenue-generating tasks.

Because neither you nor your assistant has to handle super heavy workloads, the productivity of your respective tasks will increase.

Cost-cutting opportunities

Hiring real estate assistants lets you save on salary costs and other overhead expenses (e.g., recruitment, training, equipment purchase).

By outsourcing your real estate assistant from countries with lower labor costs, such as the Philippines, you can save as much as 70% on employee salaries.

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13 March

The Power of Corporate Housing and Enhanced Employee Experience

Relocation can be one of the most exciting—and stressful—experiences an employee faces. For companies, the stakes are equally high. Successful relocations can result in happier employees, smoother transitions, and increased productivity. On the flip side, a poorly managed move can lead to frustration, decreased morale, and even the loss of talent. Corporate housing has emerged as a game-changing solution for organizations looking to simplify relocations while delivering a comfortable, welcoming experience for their employees.

But what exactly is corporate housing, and how does it play into a company’s mobility strategy? For relocation managers, travel managers, and relocation management companies (RMCs), it’s worth taking a closer look at how corporate housing enhances the employee experience while supporting business goals.

What Is Corporate Housing?

Think of corporate housing as the perfect middle ground between a hotel stay and a long-term apartment lease. The industry is known by many names, including corporate housing, serviced apartments, executive suites, or furnished apartments. These fully furnished accommodations are designed for stays of 30 days or longer, though shorter stays are often an option. Corporate housing goes beyond providing a roof over employees’ heads. It’s about creating a home away from home with all the amenities employees need to thrive during their transition.

Whether it’s a one-bedroom unit in the heart of a bustling city or a family-friendly home in the suburbs, corporate housing can be tailored to meet a wide range of needs.

Why Corporate Housing Works: A Win-Win for Employees and Employers

1. A Comfortable Start

When employees move for work, they don’t just leave behind their old jobs; they leave behind their routines, comforts, and sense of normalcy. Corporate housing provides a soft landing, offering spaces that feel more like home than a sterile hotel room ever could.

Picture this: Instead of eating takeout every night in a hotel, employees can cook a homemade meal in their own fully equipped kitchen. They can spread out in a spacious living room, do laundry without leaving their building, and enjoy a sense of normalcy and privacy that’s hard to find in traditional short-term accommodations.

2. Cost-Effective for Companies

Hotels are expensive—especially for long stays—and they come with hidden costs. Dining out every day, paying for laundry services, and dealing with additional fees can make the price tag skyrocket. Corporate housing, on the other hand, is designed with cost efficiency in mind.

Companies often find that the per-night cost of corporate housing is significantly lower than hotel rates, and the included amenities mean fewer out-of-pocket expenses for employees. Additionally, the cost per square foot is also lower for corporate housing. Rent Cafe noted the average size of a one-bedroom apartment is 733 square feet, while the average hotel room is 325 square feet. With ADR for corporate housing of $183 and ADR for hotels of $152, the cost per square foot of a hotel is 91% higher than corporate housing. This approach not only saves money but also provides a more comprehensive solution for long-term needs.

3. Flexible Lease Terms

Flexibility is the name of the game when it comes to employee relocations. Corporate housing providers understand this and offer lease terms that can adapt to the employee’s situation. Whether it’s a short-term assignment or an extended stay due to unexpected project delays, these flexible terms ensure there’s no wasted time or money.

4. Accommodations Where You Need to Be

Relocating employees often need to hit the ground running, and location plays a critical role in making that possible. Corporate housing providers typically offer accommodations in prime areas—close to business hubs, public transportation, and local attractions.

Employees save time commuting and can focus on getting familiar with their new surroundings, whether that means exploring local restaurants or finding the nearest grocery store.

5. Support Every Step of the Way

Corporate housing providers don’t just hand over the keys and disappear. Many offer concierge-style support, from helping employees navigate their new city, and assisting with documents for a new country or school to addressing any issues with their accommodations. This added layer of care can make all the difference, especially for employees adjusting to an unfamiliar environment.

6. Leveraging Data and Forecasting for Smarter Decisions

Corporate housing providers are more than just accommodation experts; they’re valuable partners in strategic planning. Many leading providers offer detailed data and forecasting tools to help HR and mobility professionals make informed business decisions. These insights can include trends in housing demand, average stay durations, regional pricing fluctuations, and upcoming market developments. By analyzing this data, companies can forecast housing needs, budget more effectively, and optimize relocation policies.

For example, knowing peak times for housing availability in key markets can help organizations plan relocations to avoid unnecessary costs or delays. Additionally, real-time reporting on employee housing usage and satisfaction allows businesses to adjust their strategies proactively. In a world where agility is essential, these data-driven insights empower companies to stay ahead of the curve and ensure their mobility programs are not only efficient but also aligned with overall business objectives.

Putting Employees First: The Experience Matters

Relocating is hard. Employees might be juggling new job responsibilities, adapting to a new city, and, in some cases, managing the needs of their families. A positive relocation experience can set the tone for their entire assignment—or even their tenure with the company. It is estimated that 94% of relocation managers view the success of relocation based on the experience of an employee during the relocation and housing is one of the primary components of the relocation.

Here’s how corporate housing helps:

Smooth Transitions: Moving into corporate housing often feels seamless compared to navigating the challenges of finding and furnishing a rental property. Employees can focus on their work and settle into their new role instead of dealing with housing headaches.
Family-Friendly Options: Relocations aren’t just about the employee; they’re about their families, too. Corporate housing providers often offer accommodations with multiple bedrooms, play areas for kids, and proximity to schools and parks, making the transition easier for everyone.
Cultural Integration: Some providers go the extra mile by offering resources to help employees feel at home, whether it’s a list of local hotspots, language classes, or neighborhood events.

A Strategic Advantage for Businesses

While corporate housing is a great perk for employees, it’s also a smart move for companies. Here’s why:

1. Attracting and Retaining Talent

In today’s competitive job market, the ability to offer seamless relocation support can be a major differentiator. Employees are more likely to join—and stay with—companies that prioritize their well-being during such a significant life event.

2. Streamlined Operations

Managing the logistics of employee relocations can be overwhelming for HR and mobility managers. Partnering with a corporate housing provider simplifies the process, offering a centralized solution that reduces administrative burdens.

3. Duty of Care

Employers have a responsibility to ensure their employees’ safety and well-being, especially when they’re far from home. Corporate housing providers adhere to strict safety standards, ensuring that employees have secure, reliable accommodations. While often employees may initially flock to short-term rental options when exploring outside of the traditional hotel stay, corporate housing provides HR and mobility managers with confidence by working with professional companies. These companies prepare and review extensive health, safety, security and environment compliance, protection of personal identification data and financial transactions, 24-hour emergency and service lines, a standardized product regardless of location, background checks, insurance from professional providers and compliance with federal, state and local regulations.

4. Global Consistency

For multinational companies, consistency is key. Working with corporate housing providers that have a global presence ensures employees receive the same high-quality experience no matter where their career takes them.

The Rise of Flexible Work and Its Impact on Corporate Housing

As hybrid and remote work models become more common, the demand for flexible housing options has skyrocketed. Employees might not relocate permanently but may need temporary accommodations for extended work trips or project-based assignments. Corporate housing fits this need perfectly, offering a level of comfort and functionality that traditional hotels can’t match.

For the growing population of digital nomads, corporate housing is an even more attractive solution. These professionals need more than just a place to sleep; they need spaces that allow them to thrive both personally and professionally. Corporate housing often includes thoughtfully designed workspaces, such as real desks and ergonomic chairs, ensuring that employees can remain productive without sacrificing comfort. High-speed Wi-Fi is a standard feature, keeping employees connected and ready to collaborate.

What sets corporate housing apart is its ability to create an environment that blurs the lines between home and work-life balance. Unlike a desk tucked into the corner of a hotel room, corporate housing offers separate living areas, allowing employees to mentally “clock out” at the end of the day. This balance helps prevent burnout and promotes overall well-being, making it an invaluable asset for remote workers and digital nomads alike

Corporate Housing as a Competitive Edge

Relocations are about more than just moving people; they’re about creating an experience that sets employees up for success in their new roles. Corporate housing plays a pivotal role in this process, offering the comfort, convenience, and support that employees need during a major life transition.

For companies, investing in corporate housing isn’t just about reducing costs or streamlining logistics, it’s about sending a message: “We value you, and we want you to succeed.”

As the workplace continues to evolve, corporate housing will remain a cornerstone of effective mobility strategies. By embracing this solution, companies can enhance employee satisfaction, strengthen their relocation programs, and ultimately gain a competitive edge in today’s fast-paced business world.

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2025 Business Travel Forecast: Emerging Trends You Need to Know

As we move into 2025, business travel continues to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of professionals worldwide. From new travel dynamics to innovative technology, here’s a look at the emerging business travel trends that are set to shape the year ahead.

A Shift Toward Internal Business Travel

One of the most significant changes in corporate travel this year is the increase in internal business travel. With many teams spread out across the globe due to the rise of remote work, the need for in-person collaboration is growing. Rather than focusing solely on client meetings or conferences, businesses are investing more in internal travel for team-building, strategy sessions, and cross-departmental meetings. This shift is prompting the rise of travel services that specialize in organizing corporate retreats and private travel experiences for teams.

Blurring the Lines Between Work and Leisure: Frolleague Travel

Building on the popularity of bleisure travel, a new trend has emerged: frolleague travel. In 2025, many professionals are blending work with both leisure and socializing with colleagues. Rather than keeping work and personal time entirely separate, employees are extending business trips to spend additional time in the destination with coworkers. This trend signals a shift in how professional relationships are nurtured: less formal and more social, fostering stronger bonds and networking opportunities outside of the office environment.

Loyalty Programs Losing Their Appeal

For years, loyalty programs have been a cornerstone of business travel, with frequent flyers looking to rack up points and earn perks. However, as the landscape of business travel evolves, younger generations are placing less importance on these programs. Instead, business travelers are prioritizing factors such as convenience, cost, and the overall travel experience. This trend is especially notable among Gen Z and Millennials, who are less likely to engage with traditional loyalty schemes. As a result, companies may need to rethink their travel strategies to cater to this shift in priorities.

The Rise of Bleisure Trips

For younger business travelers, the concept of combining work and leisure is now a given. With remote work being the norm for many, professionals no longer feel the need to keep work and life entirely separate. They are finding ways to incorporate personal activities into every business trip. Whether it’s exploring local culture, trying new cuisines, or unwinding after a busy day of meetings, these travelers are taking a more flexible approach to their itineraries, maximizing the value of their travel experience.

Technology to Enhance Accessibility for All Travelers

As the world of business travel becomes more inclusive, technology is playing a key role in improving the experience for neurodivergent travelers. In 2025, advancements in travel tools powered by AI are set to make the process smoother for travelers who face challenges such as sensory overload or difficulty navigating crowded environments. Airports, hotels, and travel services are beginning to introduce sensory-friendly spaces and better-organized travel information. These changes ensure that all travelers, regardless of their neurodivergence, can enjoy a more accessible and stress-free journey.

Wellness and Health Focus in Business Travel

The importance of wellness during travel continues to rise. In 2025, business travelers are increasingly seeking ways to maintain their health while on the go. From better sleep environments to access to wellness amenities such as fitness centers and healthy dining options, the travel industry is responding to the demand for improved traveler well-being. Companies are also becoming more mindful of how travel affects employee health, offering better accommodations and support for physical and mental well-being.

Looking Ahead

The landscape of business travel is shifting in exciting new directions. Whether it’s internal travel for team collaboration, blending work with leisure, or embracing technology to enhance accessibility, 2025 promises to bring significant changes. As these trends continue to evolve, businesses will need to adapt to ensure their travelers have the best experience possible, helping them stay productive, healthy, and engaged on the road.

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16 December

Make 2025 Your Most Organized Year Yet with Concierge Support

Start 2025 Organized with Edmonton’s Top Concierge Services

As the New Year approaches, there’s no better time to embrace a fresh start by organizing your life for 2025. A well-organized year can reduce stress, keep you focused on your goals, and allow you to live each day more fully. Errandables, Edmonton’s premier concierge services, specializes in helping clients streamline tasks, manage responsibilities, and achieve lasting organization. With Errandables support, you can start the year on the right foot and enjoy a simpler, more productive life.

Why Organization Matters: Benefits of a Well-Managed 2025

How Organization Impacts Well-Being

Staying organized brings numerous benefits for both mental and physical well-being. When our lives are well-structured, we experience reduced stress, better focus, and improved mood. Organization helps prevent the feeling of being overwhelmed, making it easier to tackle each day with a clear mind. By partnering with Errandables, you can take control of daily routines, freeing yourself from clutter and chaos to enjoy a more harmonious lifestyle.

Setting New Year’s Goals for an Organized Life

The New Year often inspires us to set fresh goals and resolutions, and organization is the foundation for achieving them. Whether you’re aiming to grow in your career, improve personal wellness, or spend more time with loved ones, staying organized plays a crucial role. Errandables red offers tailored support to help you set and stick to your organizational goals. With personalized plans, you can create and maintain systems that align with your vision for a fulfilling 2025.

Transforming Your Home with Professional Organization Services

Decluttering for the New Year

Starting the year with a clutter-free home creates an inviting and functional environment that fosters focus and relaxation. Errandables expert decluttering services help transform spaces, removing unnecessary items and reorganizing your belongings for easier access. By decluttering, you’re making a statement that 2025 is a year for simplicity and purpose, allowing your home to be a sanctuary of calm rather than a source of stress.

Ongoing Home Management

Beyond the initial clean-up, Errandables offers ongoing home organization support to ensure your space remains tidy and efficient. From managing seasonal décor to coordinating storage solutions, their team provides services that adapt to the changing needs of your household. Regular maintenance keeps your home running smoothly, freeing you to focus on the things that matter most.

Simplify Your Life with Edmonton’s Concierge Services

Personal Errands Made Easy

Errandables concierge services are designed to handle the daily errands that often consume your valuable time. Tasks like grocery shopping, dry cleaning, and even gift buying are effortlessly managed, allowing you to reclaim your day. By letting Errandables take care of these chores, you can avoid distractions and keep your focus where it’s needed most.

Home Maintenance Support

Managing a home requires coordination and consistency, from routine maintenance to unexpected repairs. Errandables makes home upkeep easier by scheduling and overseeing these tasks, so you never miss essential maintenance. With this support, clients can enjoy a well-maintained home without having to worry about handling everything themselves.

Staying Organized Beyond January: Year-Round Support

Consistent Concierge Services for Year-Round Success

Organization shouldn’t end in January; it’s a habit that builds over time. With Errandables year-round support, you can stay on top of tasks throughout 2025, avoiding the overwhelm of responsibilities piling up. Whether it’s filing paperwork, managing appointments, or coordinating events, Errandables ensures your life remains organized from season to season.

Examples of Ongoing Support

Some services provided year-round include changing seasonal décor, booking routine appointments, and managing essential dates, such as birthdays and anniversaries. These services ensure that nothing slips through the cracks, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to enjoy each season to its fullest.

New Year, New Goals: Achieving Productivity in 2025 with Errandables

Why Concierge Services Boost Productivity

By delegating tasks to Errandables, you’re freeing up time and energy to focus on what truly matters. This increased productivity helps clients achieve both personal and professional goals, whether they’re advancing in their careers, developing new skills, or dedicating more time to self-care. The result is a more balanced, productive life that aligns with your aspirations for 2025.

Client Success Stories

Many clients have experienced transformative benefits from working with Errandables, citing improved organization and reduced stress. For example, one client noted how the service allowed them to focus on their startup while knowing that household tasks and personal errands were always under control. These success stories illustrate how concierge services can positively impact various aspects of life.

How to Get Started with Concierge Services in Edmonton

Personalized Consultation

Getting started with Errandables begins with a personalized consultation to assess your unique needs. This initial meeting helps identify areas where you’d benefit most from support, allowing Errandables to craft a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and goals for 2025.

Flexible, Customized Plans for Organization

Errandables offers customized plans that adapt to each client’s priorities, ensuring you receive only the services you need. Whether you require comprehensive support or help with specific tasks, Errandables will tailor their offerings to make your year more organized and fulfilling.

Make 2025 a Year of Organization and Simplicity with Errandables

Start the New Year with a commitment to organization and simplicity through Errandables concierge services. By offering Edmonton’s most comprehensive support, Errandables empowers clients to embrace 2025 with confidence and clarity. Reclaim your time, reduce stress, and stay organized all year long with a professional partner by your side. Let Errandables help make this year your best yet.

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12 December

Benefits of Providing Errand Services for Seniors

As seniors age, running routine errands becomes increasingly difficult. Many seniors struggle to drive safely as they age due to issues like vision problems, delayed reaction times, or cognitive impairments. But these seniors still need access to necessities like food, medication, and toiletries. That’s why errand services exist.

Caregivers who provide errand services allow seniors to maintain their independence, continue living in their own homes, and avoid a care facility. Errand services help seniors thrive.

What are Errand Services?

Providing errand services is when caregivers help seniors perform their routine errands or do the errands for them. Errand services help seniors live their lives as usual.

Errand services typically include:

Grocery shopping
Accompanying seniors to appointments at doctor’s offices and hair salon and on recreational activities to places like restaurants or movie theaters
Picking up and delivering medications
Picking up and dropping off mail or packages
Delivering dry cleaning
Dropping off meals

Beyond errands, these services also include transportation. Whether the senior needs to attend an important doctor’s appointment or a social event, errand services help them arrive at their destination safely. They can do the things they would normally do without driving.

Errand services help seniors live an independent, fulfilling life as they age.

The Positive Impact of Errand Services for Seniors

Have you been thinking about getting a caregiver to run errands for yourself or your loved one? If you have, you should know you’ll be making a positive impact.

Ways errand services help seniors and their families:

Removes the Risk of Driving. Providing errand services takes seniors off the road, so they’re no longer a risk to themselves or anyone else.
Prevents Injury. Errand services prevent injuries by getting seniors off the road and handling physically challenging tasks, such as carrying heavy groceries.
No Getting Lost. When seniors age, confusion makes driving a daily struggle. They will often get lost, even when driving to a place they’re familiar with. Errand services remove the risk of seniors getting lost.
Peace of Mind. When you rely on errand services for yourself or a loved one, your entire family will benefit from peace of mind. There’s no more worrying about the senior, but comfort in knowing they’re okay.
Frees Up Time. Errand services give seniors extra time, which they can use to cook a healthy meal, get some cleaning done, or take a walk. Plus, if the senior’s family was doing a lot of the work, errand services also free up time for them.
Companionship. Loneliness is a huge problem for seniors, and it can negatively impact them mentally and physically. By being there for them, talking to them, and being their friend, caregivers who provide errand services positively impact the lives of seniors.

Errand services provide many benefits to seniors and their families. But how do you know when to hire an errand service?

When Seniors May Need Errand Services

When a senior needs errand services really depends on them and their unique situation. But some tell-tale signs indicate it is time to hire errand services for a senior.

Signs it’s time to seek help include:

The senior has had a consistent, noticeable decline in independent functioning
You’re noticing the senior has new challenges getting around, such as more car dings and dents or falls
You think the senior could benefit from extra support
The senior has limited mobility

If you’re looking at these signs and recognizing them in yourself or your loved one, it may be time to start considering errand services.

Choosing the Right Provider

Choosing the right errand service provider may seem challenging and overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.

Tips for finding a provider that’s right for you:

Perform Online Research. Look for reviews and customer testimonials online. These can give you great insight into errand service providers and how they treat their clients.
Ask a Trusted Friend. If you have a friend who has experienced finding an errand service provider for themself or their loved one, they’re a perfect person to ask.
Ask a Primary Care Physician. Your physician likely knows the best errand service providers in your area. Ask them for a recommendation.
Consider Cost and Availability. Make a list of your favorite errand service providers in your area, plus all the recommendations you get. Then, go through and compare them based on cost and availability. Of course, you don’t want to overpay for these services, but you also need availability and reliability for you and your family.
Decide on a Compatible Caregiver. The caregiver you choose should be compassionate, kind, and empathetic. They also should naturally get along with you or your loved one. You can find out this information through interviews and conversations. Make sure the caregiver is compatible with your family.

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9 December

Guide to Performing Personal Errands at Work (With Tips)

Sometimes employees perform personal errands while at work to help manage their personal responsibilities. It’s useful to learn when this is appropriate to do and how you can balance your work and personal responsibilities. While it may be necessary to do personal errands at work, it’s important to speak with your manager and ensure that your errand don’t interfere with job performance. In this article, we discuss what personal errands are, why employees perform errands while at work and provide tips for how you can better manage your personal and professional responsibilities.

What is a personal errand?

A personal errand is a task you perform to benefit yourself and accomplish a personal goal. Errands are usually short trips or breaks to serve a specific purpose. Examples of personal errands include:

Delivering a package
Making a phone call
Sending an email
Shopping for food or a supply
Transporting a person
Scheduling an appointment

Why do people complete personal errands at work?

Employees may complete personal errands at work to fulfill obligations for their family or to meet a personal deadline for an event outside of work. Some may feel it’s necessary to perform personal errands while at work because they’re unable to accomplish these tasks in their personal time. Achieving a work-life balance is important and requires time management skills and flexibility at work. If an employee and employer cannot meet these requirements, then in order to accomplish some tasks, an employee may have to complete the errand at work.

When is it appropriate to do personal errands at work?

It may be necessary to do personal errands at work sometimes, but it’s important to be mindful of when it’s appropriate to perform these tasks. Using your breaks or lunchtime to complete a personal errand is a good idea because this is your personal time. If you need to do a personal errand at another time during the workday, this may be acceptable if you finish your work assignments on time. It’s also useful to speak with your manager if you need to perform errands while at work. A manager may help determine an appropriate time for you to do this and may make accommodations for you so that your personal errands don’t interfere with accomplishing your work goals.

Tips for managing work and personal responsibilities

Managing work and personal responsibilities can be challenging, but these tips can help you become better at accomplishing all your professional and personal goals:

Find a job with flexibility

Seeking a job that provides a flexible schedule and encourages a good work-life balance can help you manage professional and personal responsibilities. It’s also useful to consider the hours you’re able to work and apply to jobs with this availability or operation hours. For example, if you take your kids to school in the morning, you may benefit from finding a job that allows you to start a shift later in the morning.You can also discuss flexibility with employers. If they have an interest in hiring you, they may make proper accommodations.

Develop time management skills

Developing time management skills enables you to optimize your use of time during the day. You can try time management strategies such as creating a to-do list, making a weekly schedule, using a planner or prioritizing your tasks. The ability to manage your time helps reduce procrastination, achieve goals, increase your productivity and allows you to stress less. Asking for help with your time management goals can provide accountability and if you ask another colleague or manager they may be able to teach you their methods.

Identify your priorities

Priorities help influence which responsibilities you take care of first. You can identify your priorities by determining what is important in your personal and professional life. Consider the goals you want to achieve and the steps to accomplishing these goals. You may also discover your priorities by analyzing how you currently spend your time. Setting priorities can help develop time management habits and may provide you with more time to accomplish your responsibilities at the most appropriate time. For example, if you want to earn a promotion and train your pet, you may prioritize and manage your time by delegating training to a pet professional and ensuring that you meet all your project deadlines at work and accept additional responsibilities when you can.

Discuss your needs with a manager

If you have difficulty managing your responsibilities, it may be helpful to speak with your manager and request their help. Together, you may be able to negotiate flexibility in your work schedule to create a plan to accomplish your professional goals in a timely manner so that you can give more focus to personal responsibilities.Showing dedication to improve your efficiency at work and an interest in learning to better manage responsibilities can persuade a manager to be lenient. Ask your manager about their expectations of you and be sure to meet these before doing your errands.

Recognize your strengths and limitations

Understanding your own capabilities helps you to determine the amount of responsibilities you can handle. With this information, you can accept or decline additional responsibilities. For example, if you’re working at your full potential at work, you can ask your manager to delegate additional tasks they may assign to you. For personal responsibilities, you may ask family members for help so that you don’t have to manage too many responsibilities at once.

Use technology

To manage your responsibilities, you can use a task management application. This can help create a list of your responsibilities and schedule appropriate times to work on these responsibilities. Some task management applications provide reminders to help you better manage time and prepare for upcoming tasks. Another option is to use a virtual calendar that works similarly and be more accessible to you.

Limit the distractions in your environment

If you can limit distractions in your environment that interfere with accomplishing personal and professional responsibilities, you may be able to increase your focus and work more efficiently. It’s helpful to analyze your surroundings before starting a task so that you can identify and remove anything that may distract you. You can also increase your focus by playing music, introducing a calming scent into your work environment or secluding yourself while you work.

Manage your mental health

Maintaining good mental health is important to keep focus at work. Managing your mental health by getting rest, sharing emotions and taking time to relax helps reduce stress and increases your productivity both at work and at home. Stable mental health can help you form healthy relationships which is useful so that you can ask for help when you need it.

Request time off of work

You can also request time off of work to focus on personal responsibilities. A vacation can help organize your personal life and provide you time to complete tasks. When you return to work, you may feel more energy and be more productive. This can help separate your personal and professional responsibilities.

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2 December

15 Trends Defining the Future of Procurement in 2025

As we approach 2025, the procurement industry is undergoing significant transformation. With technological advancements, sustainability pressures, and an increased focus on risk management, procurement is evolving faster than ever. Understanding these key trends can help businesses enhance procurement strategies, improve efficiency, and build stronger supplier relationships. Here are 15 trends poised to shape the future of procurement and supply chain management.

1. Digital Transformation in Procurement

In 2025, digital procurement will no longer be optional but essential. Companies are adopting digital tools to streamline processes, manage suppliers, and boost transparency. These tools automate repetitive tasks, reduce cycle times, and make the procurement process more efficient.

Benefits of Digital Procurement:

Process Efficiency: Automates tasks like supplier selection, order management, and contract processing.
Enhanced Communication: Real-time collaboration with suppliers allows quick responses to changes.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Procurement

AI is revolutionizing procurement by automating manual tasks, analyzing data, and predicting trends. AI-driven tools support demand forecasting, optimize supplier selection, and streamline inventory management, allowing procurement teams to focus on strategy.

Applications of AI in Procurement:

Predictive Analytics: Forecasts demand, helping to balance inventory levels.
Supplier Evaluation: AI assesses suppliers on performance, pricing, and quality metrics.

3. Global Sourcing and Diversification

As businesses expand, they’re sourcing globally to access better pricing, quality, and innovation. However, global sourcing requires robust procurement systems to manage diverse suppliers and mitigate risks associated with international markets.

Global Sourcing Benefits:

Access to Innovation: Global suppliers offer unique products and technologies.
Risk Reduction: Diversifying suppliers reduces dependency on a single region.

4. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing

Sustainability is now a priority, not a choice. Consumers and regulators demand companies adhere to ethical and environmental standards. Responsible sourcing builds consumer trust, strengthens brand reputation, and aligns with evolving regulations.

Advantages of Ethical Sourcing:

Stronger Brand Image: Consumers favor brands with sustainable practices.
Reduced Compliance Risks: Working with ethical suppliers minimizes risks related to environmental and labor standards.

5. Supplier Collaboration and Relationship Building

Enhanced supplier relationships are vital for improving resilience and driving innovation. Strong partnerships allow for better data sharing, communication, and risk management, positioning companies to respond quickly to disruptions.

Benefits of Supplier Collaboration:

Better Demand Forecasting: Real-time data sharing improves demand alignment.
Risk Mitigation: Collaborative planning with suppliers helps build supply chain resilience.

6. The Rise of E-Procurement

E-procurement platforms are changing how companies handle purchasing by centralizing and automating the entire procurement process. This technology accelerates purchasing, reduces cycle times, and improves compliance.

E-Procurement Benefits:

Centralized Control: Provides a single platform for all procurement activities.
Improved Compliance: Digital records reduce manual errors and ensure policy adherence.

7. Data-Driven Decision Making

Data analytics has turned procurement into a data-centric function, allowing companies to analyze spending trends, supplier performance, and market data to drive decisions. This shift helps identify savings opportunities and optimize supplier relationships.

Key Data Benefits:

Cost Savings: Data reveals inefficiencies and cost-saving opportunities.
Supplier Insights: Analytics help select high-performing suppliers and improve partnerships.

8. Flexible and Agile Procurement

In an unpredictable global market, flexible procurement strategies are essential. Agility enables businesses to adapt to changing market demands and disruptions. Companies can achieve flexibility by diversifying suppliers, using just-in-time inventory, and adopting real-time data.

9. Continuous Learning for Procurement Teams

The fast-changing procurement landscape requires teams to stay updated on new tools, strategies, and industry trends. Continuous learning allows procurement professionals to negotiate effectively, manage supplier relationships, and adapt to emerging best practices.

Learning Focus Areas:

Digital Tools: Familiarity with e-procurement and analytics software.
Negotiation and Relationship Management: Skills that strengthen supplier partnerships.

10. Integrated Procurement Systems Across Departments

Procurement is increasingly integrated with finance, logistics, and operations to streamline workflows and improve visibility. Integrated systems allow for better data sharing, faster decision-making, and improved cross-departmental collaboration.

Benefits of Integration:

Improved Accuracy: Automation reduces errors and manual data entry.
Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time data sharing across departments improves decision-making.

11. Blockchain Technology for Transparency

Blockchain provides a decentralized, secure ledger for tracking transactions, enhancing transparency and security in procurement. Blockchain is invaluable for verifying ethical sourcing and ensuring data integrity.

Blockchain Advantages:

Data Security: Blockchain minimizes fraud and ensures data accuracy.
Ethical Sourcing Verification: Enables traceability in supply chains, verifying ethical sourcing practices.

12. Supplier Risk Management

With increasing supply chain complexity, effective supplier risk management is essential. Advanced procurement tools can assess supplier risks, including financial stability and supply reliability, allowing companies to proactively address potential issues.

Supplier Risk Management Benefits:

Early Issue Detection: Automated alerts help identify risks in advance.
Risk Scoring: Scores suppliers based on quality, compliance, and financial stability.

13. Collaborative Procurement Networks

Collaborative networks allow businesses to share resources and insights, often resulting in reduced costs and increased efficiencies. Such networks can help companies pool resources, build stronger supplier connections, and benefit from group purchasing power.

Collaborative Network Benefits:

Cost Savings: Group purchasing leads to better pricing and contract terms.
Shared Knowledge: Access to best practices and insights strengthens procurement strategies.

14. Real-Time Inventory Management

Real-time inventory systems keep stock aligned with demand, reducing overstock and stockouts. This alignment helps companies reduce costs and meet customer needs more efficiently.

Real-Time Inventory Advantages:

Demand Responsiveness: Real-time data helps match inventory to current demand.
Cost Reduction: Avoids costs associated with excess or insufficient stock levels.

15. Cybersecurity in Digital Procurement

As procurement relies more on digital platforms, cybersecurity is critical. Protecting sensitive procurement data preserves supplier relationships and minimizes data breach risks.

Cybersecurity Essentials:

Data Encryption: Protects procurement information during transactions.
Access Control: Limits procurement data access to authorized personnel.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Future of Procurement

As we move towards 2025, adapting to these trends will be essential for companies looking to stay competitive. From digital transformation and AI to sustainable sourcing and cybersecurity, each trend offers unique opportunities to enhance procurement efficiency, foster supplier relationships, and build resilience.

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5 Benefits of Short-Term Rental Property Management

In the real estate world, vacation rental properties are a well-known source of income and a common type of investment. These days, short-term rentals have gained immense popularity. Short-term rental properties are fully furnished houses that are rented out for short-term stays. These properties can be rented out for a matter of days or months.

Owning vacation rental properties can be lucrative, but if you’re juggling a career and family, handling guest screenings, communication, maintenance, marketing, and repairs, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where working with an experienced short-term rental property management team can be invaluable.

Unlock the Potential of Your Property: 5 Benefits of Short-Term Rental Management

Owning a short-term rental comes with a wide range of responsibilities from guest communication and maintenance and cleaning to marketing and guest screening. This is where hiring an experienced short-term rental property management team can be a complete game changer. Hiring a reputable property management company can maximize the potential of your short-term rental investment, reduce stress, and save you time and money.

The Short-Term Rental Revolution: Why Investors Are Taking Notice

Investing in short-term rental properties have become a popular option over the years. However, effectively managing this type of property involves handling bookings, guest communication, guest screening, repair emergencies, and property maintenance. This makes hiring a professional short-term rental property management company a good option for many property owners. A management company that specializes in overseeing a short-term rental property can handle the day-to-day operational tasks, establish processes that allow the rental to run more smoothly, and optimize the property’s financial performance.

Maximize Your Revenue: How Short-Term Rental Management Boosts Your Bottom Line

The short-term rental market is booming. A property owner can set their rates according to market demands, type of property, time of year, and other variables. Based on these factors, there is significant potential for major earnings.

Essentially, owning a short-term rental property can be an easy and simple way to generate extra income, if you know how to market your property effectively, can stay on top of pricing strategies, offer excellent guest communication, and can maintain your rental property.

If you struggle to offer the type of vacation experience that most guests will expect, offering round-the-clock assistance and responding promptly to questions and concerns, hiring a short-term rental property management company can not only solve all of these problems, but they can ensure you offer competitive pricing, an excellent guest experience, and use effective marketing strategies that will allow you to get the most value out of your rental property through consistent bookings

Stress-Free Ownership: Leave the Hard Work to the Professionals

New vacation rental owners may quickly find that managing their property isn’t as easy or as simple as they thought it would be. If you don’t have time to respond to guest inquiries or handle repair emergencies, a short-term property management company can provide the 24/7 support and guest management assistance you need. Having a dedicated team to handle your short-term rental property round-the-clock offers major benefits and will ensure that your guests feel cared for and supported during their stay. At Errandables, our customer care team will be available to provide answers to all guest questions. If a guest needs assistance, a member of our customer care team can facilitate a proper response that will address a guest’s needs and concerns.

Elevate Your Property’s Appeal: The Marketing Advantage of Short-Term Rental Management

With access to analytics and data, the team at Errandables can provide valuable insights into short-term marketing trends and the performance of your rental property. This information can allow you to make informed decisions to optimize the performance of your property. At Errandables, our team considers variables such as onsite amenities, furnishing style, minimum stays, and nightly rates to ensure your property is aligned with the current market trends and booking behavior.

Protect Your Investment: The Importance of Maintenance and Guest Screening

At Errandables, we will handle guest communication, bookings, and inquiries. We will also screen potential guests, ensuring a positive rental experience, provide essential information to guests before and during their stay, and respond to inquiries promptly. This type of fast and professional communication will help build a positive reputation for your property and foster guest satisfaction. At Errandables, our short-term property rental team will be ready to handle all guest communication should any concerns arise and handle any small issues before they turn into big problems.

We will also coordinate regular maintenance and cleaning to keep your property looking its best. A well-maintained property will result in repeat bookings and positive reviews.

Navigating Regulations: How Short-Term Rental Managers Keep You Compliant

A short-term rental property is subject to a variety of regulations and local laws. At Errandables, we can ensure that your rental property is compliant, to reduce the risk of any resulting legal issues. Not only will the team at Errandables stay on top of compliance, but they are also an excellent resource if you have any questions or concerns regarding local regulations.

Experience the Errandables Difference: Effortless Short-Term Rental Management

Now that you know about the benefits of hiring a short-term rental property management team, it’s time to get started. At Errandables, we’re committed to ensuring that your rental property enjoys consistent bookings, that it’s always in top shape, and that your guests enjoy the best rental experience possible. Contact the team at Errandables today to learn more about how we can help you get the most out of your short-term rental property

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25 November

Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2025

Real estate investors and developers should be poised for an upturn in industry trends as the post-pandemic disruption abates and positive cyclical forces gain strength.

The Federal Reserve is among the most important cyclical forces. Its pivot to reducing interest rates indicates a peak for inflation and construction costs — and the pivot is helping real estate markets to clear, boosting transaction activity. However, not all dealmakers are ready to jump in with both feet. After all, rate cuts also indicate a slower economy and that could affect net operating income (NOI) growth. The path to renewed vigor could take surprising detours.

The specific contours of what happens next won’t be exactly like what’s happened before. Today’s critical real estate investment factors are supply dynamics and a modernized stock of buildings. For example, newer office buildings offer amenities (the so-called “flight to wellness”) that make them preferable to the languishing stock of aging buildings. And in housing, there are too few developments catering to senior citizens whose ranks are growing by several thousand every day.

New real estate cycles are marked by a growing number of opportunities. In this Emerging Trends in Real Estate^®report, we illustrate what’s improving and share the views of our survey respondents as they gauge real estate’s prospects for recovery and renewal.

Real estate firm profitability prospects for 2025

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18 November

Property Concierge Service

Bon Vivant’s Emyr Thomas explains the benefits of a concierge service.

What Does a Concierge Service Do?

There are many benefits of a concierge service – we will arrange every aspect of your life that you don’t have the time, inclination or expertise to do yourself so that you can maximise your free time.

We will arrange your holidays, recommend and book restaurants and bars all over the world, source tickets for the theatre, concerts and VIP events, and advise on a range of lifestyle services.

We can also help with your every day tasks and errands to help life run more smoothly (where to find a good gym, sending flowers to a family member or arranging a Christmas party, for example) – we’re a bit like a virtual personal assistant but for your leisure time.

Who Are Concierge Services For?

Concierge services are aimed at people who lead busy lives, who want or need someone to help with running their lives – it’s for people who would rather spend their time actually enjoying life instead of planning to enjoy life.

It’s also for people who want great service, who want to tap in to an insider’s knowledge and for people who want to be able to access exclusive events and services.

The benefits of a concierge service include freeing up your time, offering you convenience, making you ‘in the know’ and giving you great access.

Below we have listed the key benefits of using a concierge service such as Bon Vivant.

A Personal Pro-Active Service Tailored to You

The best concierge services will give you your own personal concierge, so that you deal with the same person at all times, for all requests. Your lifestyle manager will learn your tastes and know exactly what you need, offering a pro-active service, pre-empting what you would like to do.

At Bon Vivant, we like to say that there isn’t always a best place for everyone – but there is always the best place for you.

Your Personal Guidebook and Search Engine

Researching holiday destinations, booking hotels and restaurants or sourcing a unique birthday or anniversary gift can be extremely lengthy and arduous tasks.

Why search blindly on the internet when you can ask for a personal recommendation from an expert with a huge book of contacts?

We’ll recommend someone you can trust, removing the unknown element of encountering untested ground.

Save you Time

Most clients will say that the main benefits of a concierge service is to free up precious time, enabling them to experience the things they love instead of spending time researching, sourcing and booking them.

We offer today’s most priceless commodity – your time.

Access An Expert’s Insider Knowledge and Skills

A good concierge service will always be looking for the best of everything to recommend to their clients, so you will have access to their insider knowledge and expertise.

Want to know the best hotel in Paris? The best new restaurant in New York? The secluded beach resort in the Caribbean? The hidden bar in London? Your concierge will know.

At Bon Vivant, we have a fortnightly luxury lifestyle newsletter and an almost daily travel and lifestyle blog with information on the best new restaurants, hotels and exclusive events, especially for our members.

We also get invited to new openings, launches and exclusive events – one of the many benefits of a concierge service.

The Convenience

Sometimes it’s not about saving time or offering solutions to a problem you can’t solve yourself – it’s about the convenience of having someone on hand, at the end of the phone or email, to help run your life, enabling you to maximise your free time. It can be as simple as that.

Special Privileges and Complimentary Benefits

A true concierge service will strive to negotiate for special privileges and benefits for its members, looking to add value where possible.

Whether it’s an upgrade and additional complimentary benefits at top luxury and boutique hotels, priority reservation and complimentary drinks at the best restaurants, free entry to exclusive clubs, or discounts at a host of other lifestyle services.

One of the benefits of a concierge service is that we can add value, make you a VIP and save you money.

Your Own Personal Travel Expert

Through our Virtuoso affiliation, we can make you a VIP every single time you travel.

Your travel concierge will find out what kind of holiday you prefer, what style or design of hotel, what level of activity you prefer and much more to tailor the perfect holiday for you.

Online travel resources can sometimes be a great source of knowledge, but how do you know if that recommendation can be trusted or if it’s right for you? Online review sites and guides are often skewed to the middle and lower market and can show a distorted view of the luxury market.

Your personal concierge will become your own personal guidebook, making sure you get the best out of every trip.

Your Home Help

A concierge can source any home service to improve the quality of your life. Want to hire a cleaner? Find a reputable decorator? Find a nanny? Your concierge will have the contacts to help.

Grant you Exclusive Access

We are able to obtain tickets, including VIP and hospitality tickets, to a wide variety of exclusive and sold out events, including music concerts, theatre and opera performances, sports games, premières, charity balls and events in the world of film, fashion and TV.

For music fans, we have access to VIP seats and boxes at all major concert venues, so you never have to miss your favourite artist.

Conclusion

A concierge service is not for everyone – some people will always choose to do things themselves, others will enjoy spending hours on research and some will feel they just don’t need external help.

But for those in the know, there are countless benefits of a concierge service who can help client with every travel, lifestyle and leisure need that they don’t have the time, expertise or inclination to do themselves.

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14 November

What is a concierge service, and what are the benefits?

What is a concierge?

Firstly, it’s important to understand what we’re talking about when we say ‘concierge’ because while the word may be used interchangeably with a ‘lifestyle management service’ and they both offer assistance with tasks and errands, the two are very different.

For starters, lifestyle management services typically offer a broader range of services beyond traditional concierge tasks. This may include assistance with travel planning, event coordination, household management, personal shopping, wellness services, and more. On the other hand, concierge services are typically more thought of in a hotel or upmarket residential building setting, where they focus on assisting with immediate and practical tasks for guests, such as making reservations, arranging transportation, procuring tickets, running errands, etc.

Lifestyle management services offer highly personalized assistance tailored to each client’s individual needs and preferences. Lifestyle managers often develop long-term relationships with their clients, working closely with them to meet ongoing needs and adapt to changing circumstances. In contrast, concierge services may often have more transactional relationships with clients, fulfilling specific requests quickly and efficiently without necessarily delving deeply into the client’s lifestyle or preferences.

One small caveat here, too—the term “concierge” isn’t always met with a smile. In specific contexts, particularly within the adult entertainment industry, it’s used euphemistically. So, you definitely wouldn’t want to mix up your dinner reservation with, ahem, other services!

What are the types of lifestyle services?

Travel lifestyle service

A travel lifestyle service ensures a seamless and personalized travel experience. They plan trips, including flights, accommodations, and activities tailored to client preferences. VIP airport services expedite check-in and security. They book luxury accommodations, arrange transportation, and curate bespoke excursions. Special occasion planning, like birthdays and proposals, is also available. Travel insurance guidance and 24/7 assistance are provided for emergencies.

Hotel lifestyle service

Hotel lifestyle services assist guests during their stay, offering personalized dining, shopping, and entertainment recommendations. They arrange transportation, event tickets, and restaurant reservations, catering to guests’ preferences. They organize tours and activities, ensuring a memorable experience. Special requests like room amenities or occasion arrangements are also handled. Some hotels provide access to exclusive concierge lounges with additional amenities.

Medicine lifestyle service

A medicine lifestyle service offers personalized support in managing healthcare needs. Services include medical appointment coordination, healthcare provider referrals, and prescription management. They assist in organising medical records and act as advocates in navigating the healthcare system. Additionally, they provide access to health and wellness resources and benefits such as 24/7 medical professional support.

Shopping lifestyle service

A shopping lifestyle service provides personalized assistance for various shopping needs. They offer services like personal shopping, gift sourcing, and product research. They handle special requests like customizations and facilitate luxury shopping experiences. Additionally, they manage returns and exchanges and offer rewards programmers.

Lifestyle management concierge

Any good lifestyle management service should ideally encompass all of the above and potentially much more. Besides providing comprehensive support and assistance to aid individuals in daily tasks and enhance efficiency and enjoyment, they handle errands, home management, event planning, travel booking, and medical aid. They can also go further by mirroring family offices, which might include tax and legal advice, wealth management, etc. While more specific boundaries separate a concierge from a lifestyle management service to a family office, some overlap while transitioning between them is to be expected. A good lifestyle management service should also provide health and wellness guidance, personal shopping, and entertainment arrangements. Specialized services like pet care or relocation assistance are also available, tailored to unique needs.

What are the benefits of a lifestyle management service?

Saves time

It can save someone time by taking on tasks, coordinating processes efficiently, providing expert guidance, offering round-the-clock availability, and delivering personalised assistance tailored to their needs. Whether managing daily errands, planning a special event, or organising a complex trip, a concierge service helps individuals reclaim their time and focus on what matters most to them.

Reliable

A good lifestyle management service should be reliable and instil confidence in customers by offering consistent assistance, prompt response times, efficient execution, dependable resources, consistent quality, and peace of mind. Customers can rely on the service to be a trusted partner in managing tasks and achieving goals, leading to enhanced satisfaction and loyalty over time.

Exclusive privileges and benefits

It should come with exclusive privileges and add an extra layer of luxury, convenience, and sophistication to the customer experience. By offering access to exclusive events, VIP treatment, priority reservations, special discounts, personalised recommendations, and insider insights, customers can enjoy enhanced experiences and create lasting memories that go beyond the ordinary.

Exclusive access

Exclusive access is necessary for any high-level lifestyle management service, allowing customers to enjoy unique and privileged experiences beyond the ordinary. By providing access to restricted locations, exclusive events, private tours, VIP treatment, reserved seating, and special discounts, customers can elevate their experiences and create genuinely unique, memorable moments.

Emergency assistance

Emergency assistance is a critical aspect where a top-tier lifestyle service shines, outperforming basic concierge services. With exclusive access, customers benefit from swift and reliable support in times of need. Whether it’s a medical emergency requiring immediate attention or a last-minute travel hiccup threatening to derail plans, a trusted lifestyle management service ensures peace of mind with efficient solutions tailored to individual needs. The round-the-clock availability of dedicated professionals ensures that no matter the situation, help is just a call away.

Experience personal lifestyle management services tailored to you with errandables

With so many lifestyle management services available today at various prices, choosing one that’s right for you can be difficult. That’s why we’re going to explain how errandables bests its competition with The errandables Difference:

Meaning What We Say
Many lifestyle management providers claim to fulfil your every request, but what sets errandables apart is our ability to substantiate our promises. When we say we go above and beyond, we mean it. For example, if you want a table at a fully booked restaurant, we’ll send a lifestyle manager to charm a reservation out of the manager in person. This philosophy drives everything we do, and we proudly say “yes” to the impossible.

• 98% fulfilment rate on lifestyle requests
• “The ultimate wish granters”—FT Wealth
• Quality control monitoring from start to finish

The Human Touch
At errandables, we take an active interest in our members, getting to know them personally so that we understand their unique needs and desires. We’re not reactive; we’re proactive. We make suggestions and recommendations based on your tastes, preferences, and requirements. Our job is to be here for you.

• 24/7/365 Dedicated Personal Assistant
• Truly personalised services
• In-house team of luxury specialists and lifestyle managers

Financial Freedom
Our mantra is “more personal attention for each valued member.” Because our service is by invitation only, we know each member intimately. You’re not just a client but a member of our errandables family. Our personalized relationship with you means that we fully understand your creditworthiness and history, allowing us to be more flexible than other card issuers when it comes to changing spending limits to suit your needs. You won’t have to fill in forms before planned big purchases or wait for authorizations—we give you financial freedom on your terms.

• Specially negotiated discounts on yacht charters, private jets and more
• Transparent and competitive pricing
• Spending limit flexibility to give you true financial freedom

Effortless Living
We anticipate your needs and preferences, whether it’s a bowl of fruit or a chilled bottle of champagne in your hotel room upon arrival or arranging a chauffeured transfer to the airport. We make your experience seamless, monitoring every aspect of your itinerary to identify and solve any kinks before they become problems. With errandables, you’ll enjoy a perfect, personalized, and hassle-free service every time—that’s the errandables Difference.

• Invitations to a spectrum of desirable events
• Bespoke promotions tailored to your tastes
• Access to a global network of luxury experts and specialists

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7 October

Procurement as a Service

Procurement as a service is an emerging procurement strategy transforming how organizations of all sizes purchase goods and services. In 2022, the global procurement as a service market was valued at USD 6.15 billion, with an estimated growth of 11.1% from 2023 to 2030.

Similar to the SaaS model, the idea behind procurement as a service is simple: instead of relying on in-house teams or traditional procurement models, organizations can outsource some, if not all, of their procurement needs to a provider that uses technology, people, and expertise.

By streamlining the procurement function, this model gives organizations greater control over their spending and better visibility of the entire process.

In this guide, we’ll cover the basics of the modern purchasing process, including procurement as a service, how it works, its benefits, and what to look for when selecting a provider.

Procurement as a Service Definition

At its core, procurement as a service is a comprehensive cloud-based procurement model that involves outsourcing a portion or the entire process to a company that provides access to procurement services and software on demand. Also called Platform as a Service (PaaS), it’s a great way to embrace digital transformation without incurring all of the costs.

Traditionally, procurement operations have been handled internally by a company’s employees or outsourced to a third-party provider (business process outsourcing). The former is often time-consuming and expensive, requiring a dedicated staff to source and manage vendors throughout the procurement lifecycle.

On the other hand, procurement outsourcing to managed services can be beneficial, but may not offer the same level of cost savings and control over procurement processes.

From sourcing and negotiating contracts to promoting the timely delivery of goods and services, the procurement service provider typically ensures all your procurement needs are met without investing in your own IT infrastructure or staff.

Procurement service providers offer a more efficient, cost-effective procurement solution for organizations by leveraging technology, automation, staff, and expertise.

By taking care of all or part of the procure-to-pay process, businesses can pare down the time and resources needed to manage the day-to-day activities associated with procurement (like contract management, risk management, supply chain management, and more), allowing them to better focus on income-generating tasks.

What Are the Types of Procurement?

Procurement is an integral part of any organization’s operation. It involves the acquisition of goods and services from external sources, typically through a competitive bidding process. The four types of procurement are:

Direct procurement: Involves the purchase of goods and services that directly relate to the operations.
Indirect procurement: Focuses on non-core items (indirect spend), such as office supplies or janitorial services.
Material procurement: Tangible items purchased from a vendor, such as raw materials or software subscriptions.
Services procurement: People-based services required for the operations, such as consulting or IT services.

What Is the Difference between Procurement and Purchasing?

Regarding procurement vs. purchasing, the two are often used interchangeably but refer to two different processes. In a nutshell, procurement is the broader process of acquiring goods and services for an organization. It involves research, negotiation, and evaluation, to ensure that the right products are purchased at the most cost-effective prices.

Some of the most common procurement activities are procurement data management, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, cost analysis, spend management, and risk mitigation.

In contrast, purchasing is just one element of the typical procurement process. It’s essentially ordering from a vendor or supplier after due diligence on pricing and quality. Other purchasing activities include supplier management, contract execution, and payment processing.

What Are the Benefits of Procurement as a Service?

Even though procurement as a service is still relatively new, most companies see the value and benefit of leveraging this best-in-class model. With procurement services, they can streamline their operations and reduce costs without sacrificing quality.

As with any business process, procurement is time-consuming and complex. By outsourcing some or all of this process to a service provider, businesses can free up valuable resources for more important tasks.

Here are some of the key benefits of using the procurement as a service model:

1. Cost savings opportunities

Tapping into the economies of scale provided by a service provider can help organizations save money on procurement functions, particularly for high-volume purchases. They often get access to better deals and discounts that businesses wouldn’t have been able to negotiate on their own.

In addition, you can save significantly on labor costs and other overhead expenses since the provider will take care of some or all the necessary tasks involved in sourcing and procurement.

2. Access to deep procurement expertise

Most procurement service providers have deep experience in the field, which allows them to leverage their expertise when selecting suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing the overall process. They also provide valuable guidance on market trends and industry best practices, which helps businesses stay ahead of the competition.

This expertise is incredibly helpful for companies just starting their procurement strategy or looking for optimization of their existing processes.

3. Faster procurement process

With new technologies and automation, many of the manual and tedious tasks involved in procurement are eliminated or streamlined. As a result, the process can be completed in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods.

Necessary documents such as purchase orders, invoices, and contracts can be accurately generated in minutes, allowing organizations to reduce cycle times and make quick decisions to stay agile in a competitive market.

4. Better control and visibility

Since the provider is doing the bulk of the procurement work, organizations have more control over the procurement process and can keep better tabs on where their money is going.

With the help of technology, they can get real-time insights into their procurement activities, enabling them to make more informed decisions about what to purchase and when. They also get more visibility into their suppliers and vendors, allowing them to track performance metrics, such as on-time delivery or cost savings over time.

5. Improved compliance and value tracking

Rather than relying on manual processes and paper trails, procurement services use advanced automation tools to capture and track data, which ensures that everything is recorded accurately and compliant with internal policies and external regulations.

It makes it easier for organizations to track spending more closely, identify opportunities for savings, and demonstrate compliance with relevant regulations.

What to Look for When Selecting a Provider?

Getting started with procurement as a service is relatively simple, but selecting the right provider for your needs can be tricky.

When choosing a provider, organizations should look for one that offers flexibility and scalability in their offerings. It is also crucial to ensure that the provider can provide comprehensive support throughout the process, from category management to contract negotiation.

1. Identify your level of need

Start by auditing your current procurement processes to assess the strengths and weaknesses of your operations. This step will help identify areas needing improvement and the amount of support you need from a provider.

If you’re just starting, basic procurement services may be enough. But if your organization is more complex and has multiple departments, you should consider a provider that can provide end-to-end support.

2. Determine your provider’s level of involvement

The level of involvement you require from your provider will depend on the complexity of your procurement needs.

For instance, an intermediary may be enough if you just need help with vendor selection and negotiation. If you’re looking for a hands-off approach, you should look for a provider that can handle the entire process from start to finish. On the contrary, you may only need minimal help, in which purchasing software would suffice.

3. Consider offshore and onshore providers

Budget is often a major consideration when selecting a procurement service provider. Offshore providers may be more cost-effective but may not provide the same quality or guarantee results as onshore providers.

While onshore procurement can be more expensive, it offers greater control over the process. Onshore providers are also often better equipped to deal with specific local regulations and taxes.

4. Check the provider’s affiliations

Larger providers often have affiliations with professional organizations and industry-leading companies. These affiliations can give you an insight into their practices and provide additional assurance that the provider is reliable and trustworthy.

However, providers act as middlemen between sellers and buyers, so a little bias may be unavoidable, especially if they receive seller commissions.

Pick the Right Procurement Service Solution

Procurement as a service is quickly becoming the go-to solution for businesses looking to reduce costs and optimize efficiency in their supply chain operations. If you plan to grow your business, look for an all-inclusive, comprehensive solution with custom controls.

Errandables offers a procurement solution that covers every aspect of the user experience, from simple intake management to advanced PO approvals, streamlined supplier management, real-time integrations, and much more. Companies also benefit from AP automation, multi-entity management, and other modules that make Errandables a one-stop solution for all of your modern accounting needs.

The right procurement solution will eliminate the need for in-house staff, allowing organizations to access the expertise of experienced procurement professionals without investing in costly infrastructure, staff, or training. With the right provider, organizations can benefit from cost savings, industry expertise, more efficient procurement processes, enhanced visibility, and improved compliance.

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5 September

Medical Courier Services

Safe and reliable medical courier and pharmacy delivery services

We help hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, blood banks, and laboratories transport their medical supplies securely and on time.

Send and receive patient specimens, healthcare equipment, and medical records locally throughout the USA.
Get expert help planning complex routes with multiple pick-up or drop-off locations.
Track your supplies location in real-time with instant proof of delivery, including patients e-signature.
We are HIPAA compliant. All transactions and information involved are confidential.

Pharmacy delivery service 24/7

We transport medication and supplies to patients and between your business locations. We provide same-day pick-up and delivery, ensuring patients receive what they need quickly and efficiently. You get real-time tracking to ensure full visibility and a seamless experience.

Trusted medical courier service for hospitals, clinics, and blood banks

We transport all types of medical supplies and specimens for hospitals, clinics and blood banks, such as patient samples, blood products, medical equipment, and patient records. We offer same-day pick-up and delivery of critical medical supplies, such as vaccines or medication. We apply temperature control and chain of custody protocols to ensure your packages arrive quickly and safely. Since we are HIPAA compliant, all patient information is protected.

Specialized medical delivery service for laboratories and research centers

We transport tissue samples, biopsies, DNA samples, and other medical specimens between laboratory locations or to external facilities for testing. Our specialized medical courier service ensures all sensitive items are transported securely and in compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Why choose Errandables as your medical courier and pharmacy delivery service

Urgent and same-day delivery 24/7

Our medical courier service adapts to your patients’ needs. We provide same-day pick-up and deliveries, whether it is on-demand or scheduled.

Multiple pick-up and drop-off locations

We help you plan and optimize your complex routes, from a single pickup address to many drop-off locations, and from many pick-up locations to a single drop-off site.

HIPAA compliance

We follow the regulatory standards established by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, ensuring all patient and health-related information is protected at all delivery stages.

Specialized drivers

Our medical courier drivers have experience and received specialized training in delivering medical supplies with the utmost care.

Live package tracking

We provide real-time updates within a 15-minute window so you know exactly where your medical supplies are.

Instant proof of delivery

Both the sender and the recipient receive an instant notification when the courier delivery reaches its destination, including the patients e-signature for medication delivery.

Courier management software integration

Our medical courier platform integrates with our clients enterprise management software through an API for delivery, allowing healthcare institutions streamline their supply chain.

Our success in numbers

50000+ couriers

Our fully insured, trained couriers are strategically located in more than 18 states throughout the country, ensuring we dispatch your packages on time every time.

2000+ corporate partners

From global brands like Johnson & Johnson and Stanford Medicine to local hospitals and pharmacy stores, we partner with businesses of all shapes and sizes to deliver their goods fast and securely.

500000+ successful deliveries

We have developed a reliable system that gets your package where it needs to go. Our know-how, technology, and highly-skilled drivers are key to our sustained success.

98% customer satisfaction

People across all businesses love working with Errandables because of our commitment to creating a smooth delivery experience that meets their and their customers’ expectations.

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26 August

Move Management

Errandables is a single source for move management services for international moving companies, van lines and corporate clients. Whether it’s household goods, personal belongings, family pets or vehicles, we have first-class resources and expertise to plan and coordinate all aspects of move-management services.

MOVE MANAGEMENT – PROCESS

An experienced move coordinator supervises every phase of corporate relocation. The move coordinator assures that standard operating procedures and services – starting from pre-move planning through final delivery and invoicing – strictly comply with your company’s policies.

Our assigned move coordinator will perform a pre-move consultation, which is an in-depth needs analysis to identify the specific requirements, expectations and concerns of the relocating family.

Arrangements are then made for an in-home pre-move survey of the household goods to be shipped, to identify special packing, crating, handling and shipping Based on our pre-move survey results, the move coordinator will calculate the estimated cost of the move.

Once our pricing estimate is approved, our move coordinator will update your employee/customer on the entire moving process, from the packing schedule, insurance, customs clearance to expected date of delivery.

Our move coordinator will stay in close contact with the transferee throughout the moving process to make sure they receive proper consultation, correct information and sound advice on any question or concern that they may have. Errandables move coordinators are trained by FIDI Academy and empowered to respond quickly, providing the necessary information to your customer/employee.

OUR MOVE MANAGEMENT SERVICES INCLUDE:

Pre-move consultation
Pre-move survey
Quality control checks
Packing and crating
Heavy-goods handling
On-site move supervision
Insurance and risk consultancy
Air, Sea and Land transportation
Real-time GPS tracking
Removal of recycling of moving debris

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