Turn senior leaders into the travel program’s biggest advocates
Engage with senior leaders by showing how the managed travel program supports company goals and KPIs relevant to their priorities. Winning over the C-suite is a gradual process that benefits from regular, high-level updates to senior stakeholders. Make sure the information is easy to consume and to retain. Along the way, you may also need to debunk misconceptions and address objections.
What should your C-suite care about?
23% of travel managers say lack of executive support is one of their biggest daily challenges.
How your managed travel program enhances recruitment and retention
A well-managed corporate travel program helps attract and retain a motivated, productive, and loyal workforce. The C-suite needs to see how prioritizing business travel experiences helps drive success. Communicate to them how a well-managed travel program reduces stress, prevents burnout, and supports work-life balance, leading to better performance and lower turnover rates. Moreover, a strong focus on employee well-being and safety in travel not only aids in retention and recruitment but also enhances the company’s reputation.
What the C-suite needs to know: Implementing a well-structured travel management program can significantly influence employee retention and recruitment. A GBTA study found that about 79% of business travelers in North America report that their travel experiences directly impact their job satisfaction, with similar figures globally. This satisfaction extends to recruitment, where nearly 59% of potential employees consider a company’s travel policy an important factor in their decision-making process.
7 ways managed travel contributes to your organization’s overall success
- Employee well-being: Well-crafted travel policies can help maintain a better work-life balance for employees who travel frequently. This includes allowing flexibility in travel schedules and providing downtime after long trips, which can prevent burnout. More satisfactory travel experiences reduce stress and fatigue associated with business trips. When employees are comfortable and well-rested, they perform better in their roles.
- Productivity: Efficient travel arrangements minimize downtime and disruptions, allowing employees to focus more on their work. Convenient flights, comfortable accommodations, and smooth logistics ensure that employees can quickly get to their destination and be productive.
- Morale and engagement: When companies take care of their employees’ travel needs, it demonstrates that they put people first and value their well-being. This boosts morale and engagement, making employees feel appreciated and motivated.
- Retention and recruitment: Talented professionals are more likely to stay with a company that looks after their comfort and convenience. A record of pleasant travel experiences is an attractive benefit for potential hires and current employees.
- Cost efficiency: While it might seem counterintuitive, investing in better travel experiences can save money in the long run. Happy and productive employees are less likely to experience burnout, leading to lower turnover rates and associated costs. Moreover, efficient travel can reduce the need for extended stays and additional trips.
- Safety and health: A company that prioritizes health and safety fosters a secure and supportive work environment. This includes providing safe accommodations, reliable transportation, and support in case of emergencies.
- Brand boosting: Employees who have positive travel experiences are likely to speak positively about the company. This enhances the company’s reputation and can lead to positive word-of-mouth.
Investing in quality business travel services ultimately contributes to cost efficiency and a positive brand image.
The takeaway? Share and reiterate the benefits of the managed travel program as often as you can. Socialize it internally and externally to build an audience of travel program fans. Provide reports to the C-suite on increases in compliance, online adoption and positive survey results. Use these quantitative and qualitative measures to demonstrate that the managed travel program is one of the company’s most valuable assets.
Content distribution and New Distribution Capability (NDC)
NDC is a technology standard created by the airline industry that allows airlines to sell their tickets and services directly to travel agents and companies. It provides access to a wider array of travel options and better pricing, adding a competitive edge to managing your organization’s travel needs. The results lead to smoother booking processes with fewer disruptions and more seamless travel.
The distribution landscape in the travel industry is shifting, largely driven by a need for more flexible, personalized travel content. NDC has opened the door for airlines to engage more directly with travelers and travel agents, allowing for better pricing control, dynamic bundling of services, and real-time updates on availability. This shift helps airlines bring unique fares and ancillary services to market faster, giving travel managers more options and enhancing the traveler experience with greater choice and customization.
To keep up, BCD (and other TMCs) are embracing both GDS and direct channels, creating an omni-channel strategy that combines the benefits of NDC with the established advantages of GDS. This approach allows us to provide clients with a more comprehensive and adaptive travel solution. The use of multiple distribution channels means that BCD can access a wider array of inventory from diverse sources, enabling more accurate pricing and better fulfillment options, which is crucial in today’s competitive travel environment. By collaborating with airlines and other suppliers, BCD aims to refine how content is accessed and presented, creating an experience that is not only convenient but also highly personalized for each traveler
Looking ahead, NDC and other direct distribution models will likely coexist alongside enhanced GDS offerings, as these systems continue to evolve in response to market demands. With these options available, travel managers can craft travel programs that respond dynamically to their organization’s needs, balancing cost, convenience, and customization as new distribution technologies emerge.
What the C-suite needs to know: NDC can lend greater visibility into what’s being paid for, reducing the likelihood of hidden fees and improving budget management. NDC facilitates richer booking experiences, where travelers can view and select options that match their needs, ensuring a more comfortable and customized travel experience. The dynamic pricing functionality means your TMC can access real-time, market-based fares that could be more competitive than standard GDS offerings. These dynamic offers can lead to cost savings and access to exclusive deals. And travelers may receive personalized discounts and offers based on their loyalty status, travel history, or preferences.
The takeaway? Distribution changes aren’t new. We’ve seen it with low-cost carriers (LCC), direct hotel distribution, hotel booking agencies (HBAs), hotel aggregators, and mega search engines. As a travel management company (TMC) and digital service provider, BCD will continue to educate and consult with clients on the reality of sourcing a wide variety of quality travel content (fares, fare classes, rates, amenities, etc.) from multiple channels.
Why are we still talking about NDC?
Rising costs and the business travel landscape
The cost of business travel is escalating due to several factors. Fuel prices are soaring, driving up airfare and rental car costs. Hotel rates are increasing as the hospitality sector rebounds from a slump and faces higher operational costs. Additionally, inflationary pressures and supply chain disruptions are contributing to overall higher prices.
What the C-suite needs to know: A company with significant travel needs may not be able to effectively exercise control over travel expenses without a corporate travel program and the guidelines and policies it imposes. This lack of control can lead to budget overruns, reduced profitability, and even the necessity to curtail essential travel, potentially hampering business growth and client relationships.
The takeaway? C-suite support for the managed travel program directly influences:
- Cost control and savings: By negotiating with travel suppliers, a managed travel program can secure better rates for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Additionally, TMCs can leverage their buying power to access discounts that are not available to individual travelers. This structured approach ensures more predictable and manageable travel expenses. >>More info
- Policy compliance: With a managed travel program, companies can enforce travel policies that align with their budgetary constraints and operational needs. This ensures that employees book travel within set guidelines, avoiding unnecessary expenses and enhancing compliance. >>Best practices
- Data and intelligence: A robust travel management system provides detailed reporting and analytics, giving leadership insights into travel spending patterns. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making and the identification of cost-saving opportunities. >>Data insights
Technology, innovation and the TMC partnership
A robust technology stack is critical to a business travel program, providing real-time insights into spending, traveler behavior and compliance. The tech stack contributes directly to efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and overall program success. As a global TMC, BCD has developed and refined technology solutions that save time and resources. We offer easily accessible data through tech platforms and API connections; 24/7 support for travelers; and local support around the world.
What the C-suite needs to know: For organizations with multinational or global travel programs, the full-service options, deep industry knowledge, proven reliability, and personalized human support that TMCs offer is indispensable.
Our technology profile
- Global access: BCD maintains robust relationships with airlines, hotels, and other travel service providers worldwide, ensuring that clients receive preferential treatment, better rates, and comprehensive support regardless of their destination.
- Industry expertise: TMCs are well-versed in complex and evolving topics like NDC, sustainability and the effects of rising costs on our business travel industry. In fact, BCD contributes thought leadership, feedback, insights, data, and other intelligence to help guide the direction of the business travel industry on these pressing issues.
- Tailored services for multinational programs: BCD offers tailored solutions for multinational or global travel programs. We can accommodate large organizations’ unique needs, such as compliance with diverse regulatory environments, centralized data reporting, and travel risk management. Our ability to offer local support in multiple languages, navigate different cultural expectations, and handle complex itineraries is indispensable for global operations.
- Partnership: BCD has developed a curated selection of Authorized Partners to fulfil the niche or custom aspects of a travel program. The BCD marketplace allows our customers to partner with leading technology providers to extend the travel program.
- Performance and service: Whether proprietary or third-party, BCD in particular has established and vetted technology platforms, protocols and relationships in place to ensure consistent performance and service for clients. We have the ability to swiftly address and rectify issues as they arise.
The takeaway? A robust technology stack is essential for successful global travel management, offering efficiency, cost savings, and valuable insights. BCD Travel’s comprehensive tech and service solutions deliver real-time data access, 24/7 global support, and specialized partnerships, ensuring clients receive top-tier service and flexibility across diverse regions. For the C-suite, TMCs like BCD are indispensable for managing multinational travel programs with seamless support, industry expertise, and adaptability, especially in navigating complex compliance, sustainability, and travel risk requirements.
How BCD invests in technology
Newer tech companies lack the track record to guarantee reliability and stability
While newer tech brands offer seemingly attractive propositions, they cannot match the scale, expertise, reach, and value that TMCs provide. A primary drawback of relying on the newer guys is their limited global access. While these platforms might boast extensive networks, they lack the deep-rooted connections and partnerships that we have cultivated over decades. The tech platforms also may struggle to provide the same level of service and coverage in less-trafficked regions or during peak travel times. So, can they really provide the localized support and adaptability required to effectively manage your program?
Business travel is unpredictable, and any system downtime, data breaches, or service interruptions can have severe consequences for an organization. New entrants may be able to enhance some efficiencies, but they cannot replace the expertise and human touch that is crucial in travel management. TMCs like BCD offer personalized experiences through digital services and dedicated travel advisors who understand clients’ specific needs and preferences. Some new tech platforms, with their reliance on automated systems and algorithms, may fall short in delivering the same level of empathetic and responsive customer service. The lack of a human touch can erode the overall travel experience, leading to dissatisfaction and increased stress for travelers.
What the C-suite needs to know: Technology companies and third-party aggregators may present as enticing options for managing corporate travel needs. Their promises of seamless digital experiences, cost savings, and streamlined processes are hard to ignore. But don’t move with haste to adopt them.
The duty of care priority
Duty of care and traveler care is more than just legal protection of employees who travel for business. Year after year, duty of care stands as a top priority for organizations. In most countries, employers have a legal responsibility to care for staff when working, and this includes work-related travel. The responsibility is less clear for non-employees traveling on the company’s behalf, but this segment should be included within the wider scope of duty of care.
What the C-suite needs to know: Risk exists in all sorts of forms: disasters, bad weather, disease, cyberattacks, even simple bad luck. Whatever the event, the managed travel program can help prevent danger or minimize the impact when it strikes. A properly delivered travel risk management program and duty of care strategy isn’t just a moral and ethical duty. It can also boost your company’s reputation. Being seen as a caring employer will help companies retain staff and bolster their global reputation.
The takeaway? Travelers appreciate their organizations’ efforts to provide them with enhanced support, including digital solutions, always-on assistance and emergency services. Duty of care helps maintain business continuity and shouldn’t ever be overlooked.
Keeping travelers safe
Sustainability in managed travel programs
Sustainability is a strategic imperative that helps protect our world and drives long-term business value. Governments and international bodies are increasingly introducing regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability in corporate activities, and that includes travel. Employees expect companies to act responsibly regarding environmental impact. A strong sustainability program in managed travel helps meet both sets of expectations, fostering loyalty and engagement.
What the C-suite needs to know: Sustainable travel often leads to cost savings. For example, optimizing travel itineraries to reduce unnecessary trips, choosing eco-friendly transportation options, and encouraging virtual meetings instead of in-person ones can all lower expenses. Further, companies that prioritize sustainability in their travel programs are more attractive to customers, partners, and potential employees who value sustainability.
The takeaway? Getting to a sustainable future requires action, new ways of thinking and deep commitment from the top down. Companies wishing to mitigate the impact of their travel should partner with a TMC that is vocal and assertive about taking actions to build sustainability into travel programs.
BCD launches first-ever full sustainability offering for corporate travel programs
For companies looking to achieve efficiency, transparency, and measurable progress towards sustainability goals and carbon targets, BCD’s first-of-its-kind offering integrates sustainability into the entire travel management process.
Messaging tactics and strategies that will influence the C-suite
Now that you have a general idea of what topics may sway your top brass, what should you present to them? We propose the following:
- Sustainable practices
- Data-driven insights
- Benchmarking
- Links to business goals
- Savings highlights
- Future projections
Data-driven insights
Use robust data analytics to present clear and concise data on travel spending, savings opportunities, and potential ROI.
Benchmarking
Compare your company’s travel program performance against industry standards to highlight areas of improvement and success.
Will shifting priorities impact your travel program?
This survey explores modern corporate travel policies; the influence of travel buyers’ shifting priorities; and the trends shaping business travel.
This survey explores corporate travel policies and looks at the changes happening to policies and traveler satisfaction with current regulations.
Links to business goals
Demonstrate how the travel program supports the company’s broader strategic goals, such as market expansion, talent acquisition, and employee productivity.
Highlight savings
Showcase past successes in cost savings through negotiated rates, preferred supplier agreements, and efficient travel policies.
Future projections
Provide projections on potential savings and cost avoidance through strategic travel management.
Sustainable practices
Propose initiatives that promote sustainable travel, such as reducing unnecessary travel, choosing eco-friendly hotels, and supporting green transportation options. Use emissions reduction reports to gain executive buy-in.
With the right tactics and strategies, you can win over the C-suite and ensure the success of your managed travel program.
- Tailor your messages to address the specific concerns and priorities of different C-suite members, such as the CFO, COO, and CEO.
- Use storytelling to illustrate the impact of the managed travel program on real-life scenarios, such as improving employee productivity and safety.
- Share case studies and success stories from other companies to demonstrate the tangible benefits of an effective travel program.
- Provide regular updates on the performance of the travel program, highlighting successes, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
- Create concise executive summaries that provide a high-level overview of the travel program’s impact and value.
Already a BCD client? Email your program manager for support.
