" Never without my smartphone "This was the cry from the heart relayed on Tuesday by the GBTAon the publication of a new international study. The association surveyed more than 2000 professionals nomads in partnership with RoomIt by CWT. The results of this survey, compiled in the New Business Traveler Sentiment IndexOnce again, the survey highlights the crucial importance of connectivity for business travellers. For example, 64% of them cite forgetting their smartphone as the main stress factor, ahead of the computer charger mentioned by one in two travellers (50%). According to the New Business Traveler Sentiment Index, many of them mention forgetting the right pair of shoes or suit (42%), or being overdressed - or underdressed - for a meeting or event (33%).
As for inconveniences the most problematic for business customers, the lack of privacy in the hotel room is the most frequently mentioned (27%), ahead of the presence of a drunk or aggressive passenger on the plane (20%) and noise pollution from the room next door. The "classic" crying baby on the plane only comes fourth (15%), just ahead of the seatmate resting on his shoulder (11%)...
Nevertheless, according to the New Business Traveler Sentiment Index, a large majority of respondents (86%) say they are satisfied with their travel experienceThis is despite the frequency of air travel disruptions. In fact, more than one in two travellers (54%) has suffered a setback during their journey, whether it be a cancelled or delayed flight, a car accident, an emergency evacuation or a loss of luggage or documents. Delayed flights affected 52% of those surveyed, while 40% of travellers suffered outright cancellations.
Traveller experience is a buzzword
" Traveller experience has been a buzzword in the industry for some years now, but the survey results clearly show just how important it is to these travellers. "says Scott Solombrino, COO and Executive Director of GBTA. " As traveller profiles continue to diversify, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to business travel: choice and flexibility should be a key consideration in the development of travel policies. "he adds.
