Tuesday 16 September 2014

RTM: IT’S TIME TO TAKE OUR HEADS OUT OF THE SAND

When it comes to facing up to elements of danger, most of us live our lives thinking (hoping) that bad things only happen to other people. Thinking and hoping, however, is not going to limit the possibility of threat or help in times of crisis. And this is particularly true when it comes to business travel. 
BBC image of MH17 crash site
MH17 crash site
A quick revisit of the news over the last few months and you can see some of the potential risks associated with travelling on business overseas. Incidents are rare, thankfully, but the consequences can range from minor inconveniences, to expensive disruptions, unlawful imprisonment and very, very rarely, death.

Consider the renewed threat of the Icelandic ash cloud, the attack on Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, the kidnapping and subsequent beheadings of two US journalists and one British aid worker. These are just some of the incidences that show that now, more than ever, it’s critical for business travel managers to adopt a responsible travel management programme.

Travel managers need to be aware of the risks and responsibilities associated with doing business globally and not just for their travellers, but also for the environment. Travel programmes should take into account how to ensure the safety of travellers, the security of data, their legal obligations, how to manage in a crisis, duty of care, sustainability and even when it makes more sense to not travel and use travel alternatives instead.

All of these issues and more are addressed in next month’s Responsible Travel Management Conference in London, when expert speakers will share their knowledge and expertise with travel managers. They will explain how to create and implement a responsible travel management programme and also highlight how it can even be achieved profitably.

The conference is free for business travel managers and buyers to attend. There are just a handful of places left so be sure to book yours ASAP. http://www.businesstravel-iq.com/register I’m looking forward to seeing you there.

This blog post was written by David Chapple, event director of the Responsible Travel Management Conference and the Business Travel Show. You can contact David at david@businesstravelshow.com