Why business travel could be key to attracting and retaining Gen Z talent

Attracting and retaining top talent has always been a challenge for businesses. But when it comes to Gen Z, this process demands a fresh approach. But why does business travel hold such strong appeal for Gen Z, and how can companies leverage this to build a more motivated, fulfilled, and engaged workforce? Let's explore. 

Understanding Gen Z in the workplace 

Before we unpack the role of business travel, it’s important to understand who Gen Z is as a cohort and what drives them in the workplace. Here are a few key traits shaping their professional choices: 

Value-driven careers: Gen Z wants to work for organisations that align with their values. Environmental, social, and corporate responsibility matters. 

Thirst for experiences: Experiences take precedence over material possessions for this group. They value new sights, cultures, and connections as a form of personal and professional enrichment. 

Flexibility and work-life balance: Hybrid and flexible work models appeal to their desire for autonomy and work-life balance, but they don’t want remote work to isolate them. 

Learning and development: They are eager to learn and grow, valuing opportunities to upskill and broaden their horizons. 

If companies can weave these expectations into their employment offers, they stand a far better chance of attracting top Gen Z talent. This is where business travel comes in. 

Why business travel appeals to Gen Z 

It combines work with experience 

Gen Z relishes in experiences that broaden their perspectives and help them grow both professionally and personally. Business travel ticks those boxes by offering: 

• Exposure to new cities and cultures 

• Opportunities to meet and learn from diverse professionals 

• The chance to step out of their comfort zones by navigating unfamiliar environments 

For Gen Z, travelling for work is more than just a job requirement; it’s an opportunity for new learning and meaningful experiences. 

It fosters personal connections 

While Gen Z tends to favour hybrid or remote work, they still appreciate human interaction. Business travel creates space for meaningful, face-to-face interactions with colleagues, customers, and partners that virtual meetings simply can’t replicate. These interactions allow employees to build deeper relationships, form mentorship opportunities, and strengthen their sense of belonging within the organisation. 

It signals trust and appreciation 

Offering employees the opportunity to travel reflects a level of trust and investment in their capabilities. It makes an employee feel valued and empowered, which, in turn, strengthens engagement and organisational loyalty. 

It boosts professional development 

Getting out of the office and into the real world allows employees to develop soft skills like adaptability, cultural intelligence, public speaking, and networking. These are invaluable for career progression. By offering opportunities to travel, businesses demonstrate a commitment to employee growth. 

It enhances job appeal 

Business travel is often viewed as a privilege, not a given. For many Gen Z job seekers, a company’s willingness to invest in their global exposure can set the organisation apart from others. It makes the job package more attractive. 

Leveraging business travel to attract and retain Gen-Z talent 

Now that we understand why business travel resonates with Gen Z, the next question is how organisations can effectively incorporate it into their talent strategies. Here are actionable tactics: 

Tailor travel opportunities to roles and interests: For example, send sales teams on discovery trips, or allow marketing teams to attend international conferences. 

Integrate personal wellbeing: Offer itineraries that allow employees to explore local cultures, sample unique cuisines, or simply relax in their downtime. 

Provide clear support: Ensure employees have access to 24/7 support in case something goes wrong.  

How Travel Counsellors for Business can help you empower talent through travel 

Thinking about enhancing your employee experience with impactful travel opportunities? At Travel Counsellors for Business, we specialise in creating tailored travel solutions that are both enriching for employees and effective for organisations – with care at the heart of every trip. Get in touch to find out more.