As companies navigate the world of corporate travel, it’s clear that different generations have different expectations and needs. What employees expect from their work trips is directly related to the context in which they grew up, the technology they’ve become familiar with, and the values they’ve cultivated. In this article, we’ll explore how Generations X, Millennials, and Z are shaping the corporate travel landscape and what their preferences mean for companies.
Generations and Their Expectations
To understand how each generation influences corporate travel, it’s important to know their classifications:
Generation X (1965-1979): Grew up in a pre-digital era but have adapted to emerging technologies.
Millennials (1980-1994): Witnessed the birth of the internet and quickly adopted new technologies.
Generation Z (1995-2012): Digital natives who grew up immersed in the internet and the virtual world.
These different experiences directly impact choices and preferences during corporate travel, whether in terms of technology, well-being or sustainability.
Technology: The Foundation of Modern Travel
Technology is essential for all generations, but the way each group uses it varies. For Generation X, the practicality of technological tools makes their travel easier, as indicated by 74% of respondents in a Hilton study. Generation Z is even more connected, with 83% preferring 100% digital solutions for booking hotels and flights. For them, the experience must be completely automated and integrated.
In the corporate context, this involves not only bookings and itineraries, but also simplifying expense reports and reimbursements. Companies that offer intuitive and integrated platforms that allow for the quick submission of receipts and reports are able to meet the expectations of all generations, especially Millennials and Generation Z.
Ease of Access and Integration
Modern travelers, especially Millennials and Generation Z, value solutions that provide a seamless and integrated travel experience. Platforms that centralize all stages of the trip – from booking to reporting – are highly appreciated.
A tool that unifies travel processes, such as an all-in-one platform, allows both employees and managers to access information and reports in a simplified and efficient manner. Solutions like these provide agility and transparency, meeting the demand for a more connected and practical experience.
Wellbeing and Human Connections
Corporate travel is far from being just work commutes. For the new generations, especially Millennials and Generation Z, these trips are opportunities for meaningful interactions, learning and cultural experiences. Workshops, corporate events and visits to international offices are seen as opportunities to expand networking and acquire new knowledge.
In addition, the wellbeing and health of travelers have become important issues for all generations. Gen X prioritizes comfort and a good night’s sleep, with 68% saying that rest is directly related to productivity while traveling. For younger travelers, safety and well-being involve choosing transportation and accommodations that ensure comfort, flexibility, and the ability to make last-minute adjustments as needed.
Sustainability: A Core Value
Sustainability is a growing concern for all generations, but Generation Z stands out for its even more pronounced environmental awareness. With a keen eye for reducing environmental impacts, these young travelers prefer eco-friendly accommodations and are willing to make more sustainable decisions during their travels, such as choosing flights with a lower carbon footprint.
For companies, this means that travel policies need to align with ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices, offering options that meet the demand for sustainability. From choosing eco-friendly accommodations to implementing incentive programs for those who adopt more environmentally friendly practices, organizations can respond to this growing expectation.
How to Serve Generations in the Corporate Context?
To create an efficient travel policy that is aligned with the expectations of different generations, it is essential to consider some points:
Automation and Flexibility: Tools that offer an end-to-end experience, allowing everything from booking to reporting on a single platform, are essential to meet technological and integration needs.
Personalization and Well-Being: Companies must provide options that allow for a comfortable travel experience, prioritizing employee well-being and offering flexibility to adjust the itinerary as needed.
Sustainability: Incorporating ecological practices into travel policies, such as choosing sustainable accommodations and promoting transportation with a lower environmental impact, helps meet the demand of conscious travelers.
Understanding the impact of generations on corporate travel is crucial for companies that want to optimize the experience of their employees. While Generation X seeks comfort and efficiency, Millennials and Generation Z demand technological, sustainable and personalized solutions. By aligning travel policies with these expectations, companies not only increase traveler satisfaction, but also foster a more productive and connected work environment.
With TP Corporate, you have access to the best travel management solutions, adapted to the needs of each generation, ensuring efficiency, innovation and a unique experience for your employees.
