The travel highs and lows for young professionals, ages 23-35, who attend meetings while on the road are a little different than their older counterparts. A resent survey from Hilton revealed that, while young business travelers prefer a buzzing social environment and in-person interactions during regular work hours, they would rather spend their evenings on their own.
Hilton previously conducted research unveiling that business travel is a major work perk among this group. This year, the findings focused on what truly influences and shapes young professionals’ experience on the road, including their preferences in dining, workspaces and how they blend personal interests with professional requirements.
The research identified that 84% of young business travelers say that they cherish their alone time during business trips, and nearly three-fourths (73%) report that they have a better experience when they spend downtime on their own. When asked how this group prefers to spend their free time, results included:
- Eating at local restaurants (69%)
- Exploring the city and/or neighborhood (59%)
- Sleeping or relaxing (56%)
- Working out (35%)
- Attending a Happy Hour (38%) or unwinding at the lobby/hotel bar (32%)
“We’ve all had over-scheduled business trips – with meetings from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and social obligations the rest of the evening – and the result is pure exhaustion. We applaud this next generation of travelers for highlighting a tension point many of us have dealt with for years,” said Vera Manoukian, senior vice president and global head, Hilton Hotels & Resorts. “
Young business travelers want different experiences than older ones.
In looking at preferred work styles while traveling for business, 81% of respondents believe that they can get more done in-person. Findings also underscore how their workspace – whether that’s a formal meeting room or multi-functional common space – plays a key role in spurring creativity, encouraging collaboration and ultimately contributing to positive outcomes. Key findings include:
- Two-thirds of respondents (63%) are more inspired in a busy, social environment when they are working alone/independently
- 92% prefer natural light/windows in a meeting space
- 80% prefer a colorful meeting space with elements inspired by their surroundings
- 82% prefer a meeting space with advanced, intuitive technology beyond Wi-Fi
These findings aren’t too surprising but they do highlight differences in traveling preferences among age groups. The travel highs and lows for young professionals are unique and we expect savvy hoteliers to take their needs into account when they design future hotels.
