A letter from Millennial and Gen Z business travellers

Heads up, travel and expense leaders, Millennial and Gen Z business travellers have something to tell you about what works and what doesn’t in your processes, policies, and programmes. And you should listen, because they now make up over half of the world’s workforce.

Our new resource, What We Think of Business Travel and Why You Should Pay Attention, is an open letter representing the views of the Millennial (born 1980-1994) and Gen Z (1995-2009) generations, in insights that can help programmes better serve business travellers and goals, too.

First, they’re not all the same. They come from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives, so don’t lump them into one-size-fits-all. From there, Millennials and Gen Zers encourage leaders to:

· Explain why T&E policies are in place so the “what” of programmes becomes clear.

· Share information in writing or in person instead of one-off emails.

· Ensure technology is simplified and works, as that’s more valuable than the latest tech of the month. And don’t forget support, whether in-app guidance or a real human.

· Recognise the social component – meeting customers personally, building rapport with co-workers – can matter more than money.

· Listen closely, because younger workers offer fresh views and approaches.

Read the letter with the knowledge that these employees are an ever-bigger part of your business. And they have a lot to say that you shouldn’t ignore.