Promoting Cycling

It sounds like your company is already one step ahead in terms of infrastructure. Some really constructive ideas here too...

I promote cycling within a workplace of 13,000 staff and I find that it is crucial to speak to non-cyclists as a normal person. This may seem slightly patronising. But do tone down the technical speak, it's essential you converse with your staff in a way they can relate to you.

Moreover, work out what your target audience is. Cue: marketing spiel. Importance of doing this cannot be overestimated. I won't go into detail (as most of it is fairly obvious) but if half of your staff are female and don't cycle then there is an inherent problem. Whether it be for safety/aesthetical reasons; why not provide literature to counter these negative/irrational perceptions of cycling. Provide group cycle training for women, this has worked in Tower Hamlets to a great effect

Cycling can be fun, safe, save time and keep you healthy. It's as simple as that.

How about...

• Think about setting up a cycle champions network. Get current cyclists to be advocates for you.
  
• Think about your car parking management. If you give out permits, then only give them to staff who really require them. Ie. child care commitments, disability etc. A blanket ban on anyone bringing their car to work who lives within a 5 mile radius. Then again, it is London, with great public transport services.
  
• How about an inter-departmental challenge or firm wide cycle challenge? Plenty of inspiration available here. See here to start with (PM me for more links): http://www.sportnottinghamshire.co.uk/shapeupnotts.php
  
• Freebies/incentives work well
  
• Bike wash in the summer
  
• Regular Dr Bike sessions.
  
• How about a promotional campaign in the Spring to get bikes out of staff's sheds and onto the road.
  
  

I could go on (but I won't)...