Research has revealed that existing incentive travel itineraries do not cater to the needs of different generations.
Experts in incentive travel have provided insights into how companies can customize trips to cater to diverse, multi-generational teams. They also shared tips on motivating and encouraging targets while highlighting destinations and itinerary to appeal to an array of employees.
New research shows that 41% of travel professionals think there will be a future risk for incentive travel, because the design has fallen behind in a time of generational changes.
The UK workforce is becoming increasingly multi-generational as the working life extends.
Nathan Stubbs is an incentive travel expert at Motivate by Conscious travel. He said: “Integrating incentives travel programmes to cater to a workforce of different generations can increase employee motivation and engagement.”
To maximise the impact on these travel programmes, a culture of inclusion is essential that values and recognises the strengths of each generation – from Baby Boomers up to Generation Z.
If you don’t consider the needs and preferences of employees of different ages, it can have a negative effect on your company culture and competitiveness.
Four generations of employees are working together for the first time ever. Employees from the 1960s and 1950s work alongside those born today. Experts warn that if the incentive travel doesn’t align with these diverse groups, their needs and expectations, this could have significant implications on both the businesses and the employees.
According to research, Baby Boomers are looking for social connection, while Generation X is more interested in professional networking and relaxation. Millennials want meaningful experiences that will help them grow personally, and Generation Z cares about mental health.
Nathan says that when planning an incentive trip to attract a multi-generational workforce it is important to choose destinations and itinerary options that are tailored to the diverse tastes, budgets, and interests of employees.
He explained that “a variety of locations around the world provide engaging activities for participants and employees of all ages, ensuring an unforgettable experience for each participant or employee. While accommodating different financial concerns,” he said.
We’ve seen a shift from alcohol-focused incentive trips to wellness-focused experiences that strengthen relationships and bring people together. Companies are realizing that motivating their employees by prioritizing employee well-being, and providing memorable experiences, is essential.
He shared his top tips for a multigenerational vacation, saying: “For companies looking to take a budget-friendly incentive trip, Marrakech is a great option. It offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation that appeals to multigenerational workers. The employees can take a culinary tour of Moroccan cuisine, enjoy the breathtaking Atlas Mountains on a scenic drive or hike, and relax in a luxury desert camp that includes a spa and pool, along with thrilling activities such as quad biking and camel trekking.
Montenegro is a luxurious destination with beautiful scenery, rich history and a wide range of activities for all ages. The hotel offers upscale accommodations, speedboat tours in the Bay of Kotor and relaxing activities at Lake Skadar, including spa treatments, wine tasting and kayaking.
“Sri Lanka offers a wide range of beach and safari experiences that are perfect for rewarding high performers. The Bentota River offers guests the opportunity to enjoy birdwatching and paddling, as well as cultural sites such a Buddhist Temple. This trip offers a combination of beach relaxation, and jeep safaris through Yala National Park. It is sure to please everyone.”
He believes that organisations can create experiences for incentive travel that will inspire, motivate and unite their employees by embracing diverse employee needs and wants.
Companies that recognize the preferences of different generations will benefit in the long run.
According to the Incentive Travel Index, the incentive travel industry will grow in the coming years. Buyers of incentive travel are expected to spend more money per person by 2024.
Stephanie Harris, Incentive Research Foundation President (IRF) and co-author of the ITI Report, said: “Key workplace trends are enhancing the strategic importance for incentive travel.”
The importance of retaining talented employees, competitive hiring advantages and more recent trends like new generations and leaders as well as a dispersed workforce are all cited.
The first time this post appeared was on HR News.
