Last year was tough for everyone, but the takeaways can be invaluable
By Travel Buyers Think Tank, Gloria Gonzalez
Corporate travel managers experienced a new work environment in 2020. Preparing for the unknown – predicting how many agents are needed, dealing with unused tickets, and figuring out how to adjust travel policies are only a few areas.
Here are some of the lessons I learned in 2020.
Keep Networking. Be a part of a group of corporate travel managers where you can discuss concerns, brainstorm ideas, and help each other in areas that might not be your strength. Your network is very important during good times, and more so in challenging times. Keep your network diverse by including individuals who have worked in procurement, safety, risk management, and change management is the key to understanding the situation.
Be Prepared. Being prepared can mean many different things. For myself, I had to prepare to start looking for other opportunities. I needed to update my resume and create a list of accomplishments. Staying in touch with key individuals who are willing to write letters of recommendation might be necessary. My “ah-ha” moment here was that in a time of stress, I have a tendency to forget all my accomplishments. Now I will always keep a log and update it as goal are achieved.
Stay Flexible. Being flexible with your travelers, suppliers, and coworkers can help you in times like 2020. For myself, flexibility meant that I needed to be open to new job opportunities that might not include being a travel manager/director. I needed to understand and appreciate my years of experience and willingness to explore other areas of corporate travel. Your network can really help in this aspect of your career.
Be Kind. This is always important but even more so in times like 2020. Reminding yourself that everyone is facing different types of pressure and changes in their lives. Being kind to others, helping when you are able and volunteering for different organizations can be a big factor during difficult days. I always try my best to be kind to others, but especially during 2020.
And while I was at it, I had to learn to be kind to myself – that was a new concept for me. I had to learn that I could not control the pace of finding a new position, I could not always be there for my friends in their times of need, and at time I didn’t know what to do first. But somehow I made it through to 2021.
Last year was a time for lessons learned by all. Whether you manage a travel program, or you’re a sales representative for a car, hotel, or airline, or part of a TMC managing a team – we all are in this together. There are so many more lessons to share, from spending time in the office to how to use Zoom. I appreciate going to the office so much more now; being social with coworkers is truly a joy.
The best lesson I’ve learned is to be grateful. Work life changed so fast and still is not back to normal. I am grateful for my past experiences, pervious jobs, coworkers, the leaders that are always ready to help me grow, my network, and travel. Never again will I take for granted the luxury of boarding a plane and exploring a new city, a new country, a new adventure. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to travel and learn from different people in different parts of the world.
As for 2021, I will take the lessons I have learned and put them to use. I will always be better prepared, appreciate my friends and network, try to be flexible and kind (and helpful) toward others – and travel every chance I have.