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We’ve teamed up with National Car Rental to find out how business travel for women has changed over the years. Two of TFG’s readers have helped me out by kindly sharing their business travel experience with us. Read their interview below PLUS scroll down to Win a Travel Kit valued at over $400!
Q&A The Evolution of Business Travel for Women
Advertorial
Interviewees
- Hitha Palepu, 29 VP of Business Development
Number of years traveling for business: 5
- Toni Giglio, 48, VP in Healthcare Services
Number of years traveling for business: approx 15
In what year did you first begin traveling for business?
Hitha: 2009
Toni: 1999
Did you travel domestically or internationally?
Hitha: Both domestically and internationally
Toni: Domestically
How often do you travel for business?
Hitha: Twice a month
Toni: about 5 – 6 days per month
Have your business travels increased or decreased over the years? Why do you think that is?
Hitha: It has increased due to a change in my responsibilities in my job. More power, more work to do, more travel!
Toni: My travel has decreased in the last year or so, however, at different times of the year I may have to travel 3 weeks in a row. Other times I will travel only 1 time per month.
It has decreased with the availability of video conference and conference calls. I work from home when I am not traveling so when I have video conferences it requires me to look “acceptable” from the chest up. Often I am still in my pajama pants but have my hair syled and make up on.
Would you say traveling was easier then or now?
Hitha: TSA PreCheck and Global Entry makes the logistics of security and customs much easier. That said, I think the merger of airlines results in inconsistent service within a single airline, which is frustrating.
Toni: Business travel has become increasingly more difficult and frankly not as much fun because of TSA requirements, airlines over booking, etc.
Name the one biggest change that’s taken place from the time you began traveling until now.
Hitha: Global Entry, by far. It’s a game changer for the better.
Toni: Besides the TSA hassle and basically no frills flying (unless you are upgraded) I notice more women professionals traveling than ever before.
Has your experience traveling as woman changed in the business world?
Hitha: I’ve certainly become a more efficient packer when traveling for business – men typically don’t check bags, and I learned how to do the same. It’s a skill that’s thankfully spilled into my overall traveling lifestyle.
Toni: The majority of men no longer frown upon or try to discourage women from traveling for business. Fellow male travelers are, for the most part, respectful and commiserate with the toll business travel takes. I think that women have accepted positions (that usually require travel) to elevate their status in their organization and receive the monetary benefits that usually come with the added responsibility. I work with at least 3 other female execs that travel Monday thru Friday – they have children at home and their husbands take care of the home.
Did you experience different pressures or dilemmas then vs now?
Hitha: Somehow I’m the one that drives our company’s team around when we travel as a group. This wasn’t the case 2 years ago, and I honestly have no explanation of it. Except that I’m not a fan.
Toni: I feel less pressure now then I did when I first started traveling in business. The major change happened in me as I grew more confident in myself and my abilities. I remember flying to NY and renting a car for the first time to drive in the city and I was so scared. Now I travel, rent cars in cities I am not familiar with and generally am confident that I can handle myself in most situations.
Has your company’s preferred mode of transportation changed over the years?
Hitha: No – we still opt for air travel. It’s hard to travel to Europe or Asia any other way!
Toni: The preferred mode hasn’t really changed but the Preferred airlines, hotels and car rental companies have. (Usually after I get status on one airline they will negotiate with another as the preferred and I start again)
Lastly, do you have any tips to offer new business travelers?
Hitha: Invest in quality carry-on luggage from the beginning. Pre-pack your toiletries. Always make sure you have a spare device charger for your phone. Get an airline credit card and immediately sign up for their frequent flier program to get status fast. Enroll in hotel challenges so you can grab top status quickly.
Toni: I use my iPhone for everything – calendar, check-in with airlines, expense reports submissions, etc. I upload all my confirmations, etc. right into my calendar. I print alot less paper because of this!
So fascinating to compare perspectives from a business woman that begun her travels five years ago versus one that began 15 years ago – so different yet they’re both on a similar wave length it seems. How do you think business travel has changed over the years? Comment below for a chance to win!
To learn more about National Car Rentals and their Emerald Club loyalty rewards membership, please visit their website, Facebook, and Twitter.
Giveaway Details-Comment to win!
(valued at over $400)
Comment to win a travel kit that includes an eleven techtrap, zoom energy pack re-chargeable battery, leather luggage tag, camelback groove stainless, $100 AMEX card, and $50 Starbucks gift card! (Items featured above may not be exactly the same as actual prize. Electronics not included.)
Terms and Conditions:
This giveaway is valid on June 18, 2014 at 12:00am Pacific Standard Time and ends on June 26, 2014 12:00am Pacific Standard Time. Comment must be submitted before end time to qualify. Comments submitted on or after June 26, 2014 12:01am Pacific Standard Time are not valid. Winner has 7 days to claim their prize or alternate winner will be chosen.
Winner must be a resident of the United States, age 18 and over to be eligible to win. Travel Fashion Girl LLC is not liable for any costs incurred as part of the giveaway including but not limited to taxes and shipping.
Answer this question in the comments for a chance to win!
“How do you think business travel has changed over the years?”
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Advertorial: Please note that this is a paid collaboration and giveaway on behalf of Enterprise.
Since these women travel for work, do they also travel in their personal time? Are vacations spent at home or traveling back to a city they would like to spend more time in? What has been their favorite place to travel either for professional or personal reasons?
Great questions! I only asked them the questions shown in this interview but I’ll see if I can get the answers for you 🙂
Business travel has changed immensely in my working career, which spans about 40 years. Computers and mobile phones have made bookings SO much easier. Plus years ago, if I presented at a conference, I had to carry along a tray or carousel of slides to use in the projector set up at the conference. Now, I can carry a small laptop, an iPad, even just a jump drive and use an LCD project – wow, so much less to carry, so much more information I can present!!!
The airlines, however, haven’t exactly kept up with the times, and their service has gone downhill. Paying for a bottle of water? Paying to use a credit card, or reserve ANY seat? These used to be included in the price of a ticket, and it’s insane that they no longer are.
I think business travel has changed so much. Instead of people traveling for multiple days, travel can be done so quickly now. Most things can also be taken care of through technology (skype,online,email) to avoid so much travel.
I think it is better because of electronics. Can keep busy on your laptop.
Other companies have provided cheaper ways to travel. I remember meeting a man who flew his whole family to Macau with a budget of just Php 1000 per head! 🙂
It has changed in that it is much easier to stay connected with the office while flying. It’s also much easier to get work done while on the plane, thanks to wifi.
Great travel tips, but can’t help but cringe that ‘work responsibility’ was equated with ‘power’.
Besides the changes in flying, TSA rules, etc., technology is one of the biggest changes in business travel. With a smart phone, you are always “on”, need to be accessible/reachable no matter where you are in the world, and also get to print a lot less documents and bring much less paperwork with you.
I think the main way that travel has changed is the advent of the rolling wheels on briefcases and suitcases. The wheels allow the business traveler to carry multiple bags with ease, including their business travel necessities like their laptop, cell phone, and paperwork.. In addition the wheeled suitcase make it easier to get from your departure to your arrival locations.
Companies are cutting back on expenses for business travel as many conferences and meetings can now be conducted via internet!
I think it is decreasing and only done when completely necessary due to tech advances and companies decreasing budgets for travel and expenses. Lots of meetings are all completed online and via computers these days!
I think there will always be a need for some business travel, but with more and more electronic interfacing it has become less essential on such a frequent basis. I also agree that by playing the “status” game, however you achieve it can make your traveling experience much more pleasant; expedited processing, shorter lines, better seats and rooms, better food, etc. I think the travel industry as whole is definitely changing, witness all of the recent mergers; American and US Airways to point, and that in itself will cause business travel to evolve as well.
It used to be you could find certain flights more likely to be filled with business travelers to avoid kids and bad service but now families are so spread out across the country even “hopper” flights are a mix. I don’t mind TSA hassles because I know all the tricks to get through faster…it’s all the occasional travelers that slow things down.
Great giveaway TFG! Thanks for all the tips.
I think it has changed dramatically over the past years. Security and technology being the major factors of this, as they’ve been modified and expanded quite a bit .
Technology was the biggest game changer — lightweight laptops, multi-tasking smart phones, and even better designs in travel gear (360 wheels, lightweight yet strong materials) and higher quality synthetics in clothing so that you always look wrinkle-free and presentable.
It’s gotten so much easier to stay connected to family while you’re gone! Technology is amazing!
Business travel has itself become a business, especially since the rise of the all the TSA regulations.
It’s become a bit more challenging with security, less flights being flown and what seems like constantly changing airlines. Although, I love the ability to use my phone for just about anything travel related, it has certainly helped me out in a pinch.
Business travel is more of a challenge because of the security and TSA. Even some things that should be easier with pre-check are just made harder depending upon the airport and staff. Also, wait times at airports are now work times because of technology.
It’s easier to get work done in airports and on planes (hello wifi and plug-ins), but there’s so much more hassle with going carry-on only. Took me awhile to get a good system down, but now that I do it’s a piece of cake.
I think that it has become more spur of the moment which make it harder to jump through the hoops at the airport.
I think that many companies don’t see business trips as being so important these days because of all of the technology that we have. However, I believe that face to face communication is the way that we build relationships. Relationships are especially important in the business world. Technology has made communication much easier but we still need to be able to build a face to face relationship with business partners.
Traveling for business has become easier because airlines are making it more convenient for the business class. Wifi is now available on many flights. Getting work done while traveling has become easier.
-Hayley
http://www.lifeofhayley.wordpress.com
With the economy as it is today- business travel no longer means a first or business class seat!
I’ve only been traveling for the past 6 years, and have only been on a few business trips, but the biggest changes seem to have taken place with legacy carriers in the US. I work for myself now, so all of my travel turns into de facto business travel, but I feel like flying on American/United/Delta/etc gets less pleasant every trip, especially regarding service. Unless I’m in first class, the flight attendants are rarely pleasant. And even then they aren’t usually THAT kind anyway.
When I lived in Texas, flying for business was always great with Southwest. Easy, friendly-ish, and I always knew what I was getting. Now that I usually fly other airlines it’s a crapshoot. As long as I get flight attendants that don’t scowl at me, I’m pretty jazzed. Access to in-flight WiFi IS pretty awesome though…so at least there’s that when I really need to make a deadline.
I think it has changed dramTically. People are traveling internationally more than they would have domestically wven 10 years ago and the expectation of profesionalism nd communication is very high.
I only travel a few times a year for business…. Can’t keep my points, but I get to schedule my own flights, car etc.
I feel as though many companies are more efficient and cost-conscious when deciding if a business trip is necessary. If it is, they will seek out the best hotels that provide amenities under one roof. As a woman, I feel that all needs are met during my business trips, and I am not kept longer away from my family than necessary.
Obviously the TSA restrictions have made things a bit difficult, and the cost of flying has certainly increased. But I do think airports have done a good job in accommodating tech users by offering free wi-fi, charging stations, etc.
I think traveling has become so much more prevalent that it seems like it should be easier, but it’s still challenging to work with airlines and delayed flights. It is also challenging to be on the road and maintain a healthy diet because of dinners with other employees and clients.
Airline baggage restrictions have changed the way I think about packing for travel. It is great that companies have developed products that make it easier and more efficient.
I think having a smartphone was a travel game changer. Between checking in for and booking flights, utilizing maps, checking e-mail, and perhaps a quick game or two I find that travel has become much more efficient.
I think business travel is done with more frequency than it used to be. People above complained about issues, if you travel carryon only, many of these issues are eliminated. I have also conducted my own social experiment while traveling that has resulted in this conclusion: the more business like I dress while traveling, the more respect I am shown and my travels are easy!
I think our recent technological advances have changed the face of business travel. With cell phones, laptops, and tablets, it is possible to work from anywhere–including from the airplane. I think this can be a good thing, but I think it also takes the magic out of the travel experience.
With a increase in price of flights and airline mergers it has become more difficult to find good flights on short notice.
Business travel is more of a hassle than ever because of the continued transgressions of our favorite government bureaucracy, the TSA. Their security theater gets more annoying every year. On the good side, I think business travelers in general are better able to deal with lousy behavior from the TSA, airlines, service personnel, and recreational travelers.
It is more of a necessity. It is easier to work on a plane ( and just about anywhere you can stop along the way) because of the internet and gadgets that make it possible (such as tablets) and hotels make it possible as well.
Business travel has changed over the years because more women do it now. Obviously it changed after 9/11. Also, most companies pay you to travel or at least help with food and hotel. I loved that about working with Pier 1 Imports. They would pay me to go remodel a store and they would pay for my hotel, gas, food, etc.
This site is awesome. I read it every day. I travel mostly for pleasue, but I think more wmen are travelling for business and I think that is exciting. Even with the new TSA rules, smaller space in your row, etc. I still love to fly. The companies have more money to spend for travel and I think the airlines realize they can cater to that. Although some perks have gone away, I think the business traveler still has it pretty good. I would love to have a job where I could travel often. Wold love to win the giveaway.
Business travel has changed significantly over the last 30 years. More and more women are traveling for business these days and there have been so many improvements to aid women travelers … SUITCASES– No more heavy suitcases! Lightweight roll aboard suitcases make it possible to breeze thru airline terminals and stay well under new airline carryon size & weight restrictions. ELECTRONICS– smart phones, iPads,/tablets provide immediate connectivity to home and office, and most airports and coffee shops have free WIFI …. you don’t need a long distance operator to phone home, we now Skype, FaceTime,& text (TMoble free International text & Data — yay!). Boarding Passes, movies, & books can be downloaded for your flight. FREQUENT FLYERS — Trusted Travelor, TSA precheck & Global Entry programs help ease the way thru security and Customs lines for the frequent Travelor.
Thank you TFG for your timely and informative blog, love your website!!!
I think that business travel is overall easier in terms of getting through check in/security now days, although the overall service of the industry is declining…I still love traveling, though!
It’s changed because of the fees and now more people want to smartly pack..and avoid the checked bag..things are re-used for different outfits and washed in the sink more. And blogged about:)
WiFi equipped airlines offer the much-needed opportunity to multi-task. Business women (and men) can now work, parent, and socialize conveniently as they travel. Also, with many of the new products currently available, it is easier to pack with little need for irons, laundry services, etc.
I think it went from being more glamorous and nice to no-frills and difficult.
I travel at least twice a month and TSA Precheck is worth it! I don’t like getting to the airport unnecessarily early when I could be spending that time being more productive and Precheck allows me to breeze through security. Business travel these days for me is being economical with my money and time.
Traveling for business doesn’t seem as glamorous as it used to be, now it’s more efficient/cost effective with fewer companies sending their employees off with first class tickets and accommodations, opting to spend as little as necessary. Regardless, I would still like to have a job that would require me to travel even just a little but more throughout the year, even if it’s not as glamorous as it used to be.
Technology and travel have always been close bedfellows. And how one enables and influences the other continues to advance and evolve.
Business travel has changed because women have changed! Rather than staying at home or being relegated to lower tier jobs, women are becoming leaders in the workforce. This, combined with a growing global economy, sees women traveling for business more often than before (and more fashionably before thanks to this website!).
I think it has improved as far as getting work done in flight. I mean we couldn’t bring typewriters on airplanes!
I am traveling for business constantly these days (I work in Hockey TV so I am always flying to cover games, events ect) and I agree that airports have become significantly easier to manage in recent years. Even in NYC which is known for having some of the worst airports in the world I find the waiting times to be more bearable then before, or perhaps I am just use to it now…. My biggest struggle really is finding clothes that can transition from plane to work because I usually take either flights right after work, or flights early in the morning and then have to go straight to work before going to the hotel, so I have to find comfy, nice looking attire
Anyway, love this giveaway!
~Ashley
I’m sure gadgets like smartphones and tablets have increased the convenience of communication. I’m sure layovers or delayed flights can be productive time with airport charging stations available.
when traveling to conferences for work, they count every penny we spend and pinch it hard! We have to make sure we don’t check bags for extra expenses so traveling light is a must!
The biggest change I’ve seen is that more and more people seem to know all the tricks of the trade now. Information about getting through security fast and what else to expect during air travel is more readily available. It’s been helpful for me!
Travel motto: Less is more.
While travel restrictions with TSA and airlines have become tighter, technology has also made business travel more convenient. WiFi is becoming more readily available in airports, hotels, and even in flight. Plus the invention of smartphones has made it easier to keep all of your calendars, emails, and even personal items such as eBooks and music for your flights, easily accessible.
Interesting
I travel very frequently for business. The availability of technology to help make life on the road as easy as possible is the biggest change I’ve noticed. Being able to check in, manage and access information on a smartphone, not to mention mapping apps that make driving in a new place simple, really reduces the stress of being on the road. I add all of my plans (flights, hotels, car rentals, meetings, dinners, workout places) into my calendar with address information, so I just need to glance quickly to know where to go). Staying organized, planning ahead and still being able to take carry-on luggage helps as well.
I think it’s probably less glamorous than it was. It’s more TSA restrictions and overbooked flights.
I think business travel has changed so much! It’s more relaxed now. It used to be about keeping up appearances and now people care a lot less. “Business” used to mean “office executive” but now it can mean anything– like an independent entrpreneur who doesn’t set foot in an office.
I think the service overall of airlines have declined which is unfortunate, but given our national/international reach, work travel is happening more than ever. Things hopefully will turn around as consumers demand more service for their buck.
As business travel has grown I think the industry has had to keep up and compete by offering the business consumer more. Extra amenities, etc. With so much time away from home, business travelers want to be comfortable!
Business travel has become a vital part of business. Though technology can make worldwide meetings happen at all hours, day or night, there is something about meeting with a client over a meal that can always seal the deal. My business is based on relationships, which grow stronger in the presence of that second party. My flight may only last a few hours, but the relationships built can last a lifetime.
It’s beautiful and inspiring to see more women in higher positions which demand travel. It’s also nice to see their partners are more supportive than they would have been a generation ago. Unstoppable.
I think its changed with the technology we now have. For example: Things that used to be done in person can now be done with video calls.
Business travel has definitely increased over the past few years. Many people are on planes frequently and technology has equipped travelers with great devices to help get work done!
I agree that both TSA pre-check and Global Entry have been a positive step in the world of all frequent travelers, not just business travelers. We are traveling internationally next week and I am so excited to use our Global Entry passes for the family. It is worth it not to stand in line with kids after a string of long flights! I also think Economy Plus (United), Main Cabin Extra (American) and other extended legroom options are a great option for added comfort without having to upgrade to business class.
I travel frequently between Canada and the US and the biggest change has been the introduction of wifi. Now I don’t lose a work day to travel time. Also love that i can leave electronics on from gate to gate – no more waiting until 10,000 ft to fire up my tablet!
I think it’s great that many clothing line have more travel friendly fabrics now. And tech has come a long way. No need any more to carry heavy laptops as tablets and phones movie in to take their place.
With the increase in price of flights and airline mergers it has become more difficult to find good flights on short notice. But what has improved is the ease of travel using apps and the sharing of information on how to maximize travel rewards through membership programs. I just wish I knew many of the tips a few years ago!
I agree with Toni. The use of electronics to ease the amount of documents, check-in times and flight notifications has dramatically changed the way we travel today. I can’t imagine not checking my iPhone before parking to see if the terminal has changed!
I don’t travel for business but I do travel! Would love to win!
When I worked at the airport for a short stint last year, I saw that business travel was still prevalent (taking the position at the airport was strategic-I wanted to network! What better way than to work there and talk to love business travelers!?). While restrictions have put a damper on the ease and intimacy of travel (no more family goodbyes at the gate), from what I gathered is folks have their travel habits down to an efficient science. Packing carry on only, adjusting quickly to flight mishaps, and even learning to enjoy an unexpected layover by taking advantage of time to pause in a busy, go go go lifestyle are all now skills they acquire.
How has business travel changed? Flying, unless you upgrade, is now a cattle car with no leg room (I’m 5′ 10″) and row mates that overflow their space. TSA PRE does make going through security a bit easier.
Great article!
Business travel has changed a lot over the years. I’ve never seen so many young, woman professionals on the go! It’s really empowering to see so many of us traveling to represent our organizations in some form or fashion.
I am trying to enter the giveaway, but it won’t let me enter a comment into the form. Have tried on both my phone and laptop. Just wanted an entry!
Business travel has evolved with the use of electronic devices. The use of notebook computers while on board the plane allows for office communication during travel time. Thanks for the chance to win!
Over the years business travel has become big business. Just a few years ago traveling for business wasn’t something an employee looked forward to. Now the travel industry sees the benefit in creating a comfortable travel experience at a higher price to accommodate the business traveler making it easier to travel for work.
Once again another great article!! I love your blog, can’t miss a day 🙂
Benefits from priority programs have decreased in last few years. I still love what I do thoug and travel weekly. I do miss Emerald Club. My company changed to Avis and the customer experience is not the same.
I think business travel has evolved and become more convenient for the consumer.
GPS’s have definitely helped people feel more comfortable
Very interesting perspectives! I will start a job in August with 100% travel (M-R), and am interested to see what challenges I face. I think the TSA and security concerns have dramatically affected the way people travel over the past decade and a half, and I predict this will only continue to get worse as more people travel internationally on a more regular basis.
I really wish I had a job that took me places. I love traveling but getting paid to travel bonus! Great article it does suck that TSA has taken some of the joy out of traveling.
Very interesting article! Frequent flying is definitely a hassle. The whole experience seems to be getting worse in terms of wait times, frequent delays with no explanation, and overbooking– and of course, extra fees for luggage! I’d love the techtrap as I seem to be accumulating more and more devices and chargers, and right now am resorting to the not-very-chic travel organization solution of a ziploc and rubber bands!
I think companies are trying to cut back on business travel since technology can be used to connect sites. I am going on my first business trip tomorrow and I am really excited!
I thought the days of “Pan Am service”, speedy security checks, and impressive in-flight meals were over until I started traveling for business in Asia. It’s evident that most Asian airlines are still in the business of hiring charismatic modelesque flight attendants; the service is impeccable and their appearance is near perfection. Getting through security seems to always be efficient; I haven’t ever had to stand in a line longer than 10 minutes and the security personnel check your bags with a smile. Lastly, regardless of where you sit on the flights, you are almost always guaranteed a more than ‘edible’ hot meal and as much beer and wine as you please. I am an active duty officer in the US Navy and while I’m stationed in Asia, I’ve enjoyed quite a bit of business and personal travel. Not including Asian airlines, I think that the majority of business travel has become much less luxurious over the years. But thankfully for every long line that you have to stand in, or every additional bag you have to check, there is typically some program you can pay an additional fee available to purchase the luxury travel from the past. One recent change that I think will benefit the business traveler that books travel with corporate expense accounts are some of the airline-loyalty program changes. Delta, United, Southwest, and Jet Blue airlines have all decided calculate airline points based on dollars spent rather than miles. This policy will benefit those with more money to spend, or in the business traveler’s case, more of their company’s money to spend! I love this website and really enjoyed this post… fingers crossed for the giveaway!
-Lauren