Poll Reveals Challenges Faced By Female Business Travellers
A new survey has shed light on the challenges facing female business travellers, with some 80% of respondents saying "safety concerns have impacted their productivity on business trips" in the past year.
The survey, carried out by the Global Business Travel Association, polled 503 female business travellers who had been on four or more business trips within the past year.
While the survey was focussed on US travellers, it highlights concerns among UK women who travel for business - and indeed female business travellers globally.
The report also revealed that 71% of travellers felt "they face greater risk than their male counterparts".
The top three concerns for women were: 'general women's safety' (78%); 'sexual harassment and assault' (72%); and 'Travel to Certain Countries / Cities' (68%). Respondents were included in these figures if they felt 'somewhat' or 'very' concerned when travelling for business.
How do female business travellers mitigate risks?
The study found that 58% maintained regular contact with the office, family or friends in order to mitigate perceived risks.
56% said they only booked "trusted accommodation", while 51% said they shared their itinerary with friends or family.
Safety behaviour and attitudes
The study also revealed safety behaviour and attitudes in relation to accommodation, ground transport and ‘bleisure' (business and leisure combined). It found 70% had booked a traditional hotel in the past year, with 67% saying safety of location was a factor they considered when booking.
Ride-sharing concerns
Just 53% of those polled believed ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber were 'somewhat' or 'very' safe, but less than half said they confirm the driver's number plate and name before getting into the vehicle.
63% combined leisure with their business trips over the past year, with 52% continuing to follow company safety advice while doing so.
The employer's role in travel safety
83% of respondents said they believed their employer cared about their safety on business trips, although 63% said their employer could do more in consideration of female business travellers.
Amanda Cecil, senior vice president of professional development and research for the Global Business Travel Association, said: “High levels of concern have a tangible impact on business travel for women. Previous GBTA research has shown the immense impact travel experience can have on productivity and business results while on the road.
"Ultimately all travellers want to be productive and get business done, so understanding the specific risks female travellers face on the road can allow travel buyers to play a critical role in addressing these concerns.”
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