Generation Z is very different from their forebears, with their values and expectations shaped by having grown up during the recession, difficult political climates, and the rapid evolution of technology.
Gen Z consumer behaviour and spending patterns are reshaping the business travel landscape. Within fifteen years, Gen Zs will be the decision makers of the travel industry, which is why businesses need to start planning how to incentivise the world’s youngest generation and work with their travel management partners to meet Gen Z travel needs.
Here’s what businesses should expect when the new workforce comes of age:
More flexible company travel policies
As skilled self-educators, Gen Zs like to be in total control of their choices, preferring to make their own travel arrangements – particularly embracing the sharing economy. The good news for businesses is that this generation is fiscally responsible, and will opt for more affordable flights and accommodation to stay longer in a destination and experience more of it.
Seamless travel technology
Gen Zs have been online since they were born, and connectivity is non-negotiable for them. So too, is personalisation. Having grown up in a world of personalised messaging, they expect relevance in the communications they receive. Businesses, together with their travel management partners, will need to support multi-device travel technology which is hyper-personalised, flawlessly functional and consistent.
Quick and effective digital communication
With only an 8-second attention span, communication between companies and their Gen Z travellers will need to be short, to-the-point, and more frequent. Gen Z prefers ultra-brief updates and notifications without lengthy text. This means that instant messaging will not only dominate communication but also shape how travel management companies manage transactions and customer service.
Encourage sustainable and responsible travel
These future innovators are set to change the business landscape through digitalisation – yet at the same time prioritise the value of real human connections. They want to make a difference. On their travels, they want to live like a local and immerse themselves in a destination in a more authentic way, connecting with people they don’t know and contributing to social and environmental sustainability.
Are you as excited about Gen Z as we are? Stay tuned for more insights from Thompsons Travel on how to harness the power of the new generation.
Leave a Reply