International Women’s Day spotlight: business travel that empowers

For many women in business, travel isn’t just about getting from A to B, it’s about unlocking new opportunities, expanding influence and accelerating career growth. Yet, it’s not uncommon to wonder: Is it worth the time away? The jet lag? The juggling act of work and life?

The answer from women around the world is a resounding yes. According to the 2024 GBTA Business Travel Index, 78% of women say travelling for business helps them achieve their professional goals, reinforcing the critical role business travel plays in career success.

This International Women’s Day (IWD), we’re spotlighting the experiences of female leaders at CTM who share how business travel has shaped their careers, expanded their networks, and fostered personal and professional growth.

Business travel as a career accelerator

For many women, the biggest leap in their careers has come through the experiences, connections, and confidence gained while travelling. The exposure to different markets, business environments, and leadership styles can fast-track professional development in ways no virtual meeting ever could.

“The power of travel is transformative. It fosters confidence, adaptability and a global mindset. Experiencing different cultures and business environments challenges perspectives, builds resilience and strengthens leadership skills.”

— Anita Salvatore, CEO North America

Travel also provides a competitive edge, offering insights that can’t be gained from behind a desk.

“A big part of my onboarding was travelling to engage with my stakeholders around the world. It fast-tracked my learning of a new industry, helped me establish trust and enabled faster decision-making. Working and travelling in a global role has changed my perspective on almost everything.”

— Jacqui Nightingale, Global Head of People and Performance

“It opens doors to new perspectives and allows women to break through cultural and geographical boundaries and create meaningful connections. It’s a way to challenge yourself professionally and personally and embrace new opportunities.”

— Nicole Kolotas, General Manager, Meetings & Events, AU/NZ

“I’ve developed a deep appreciation for different perspectives, which has significantly enhanced my communication skills. Navigating new environments has boosted my confidence and self-reliance, allowing me to uncover new strengths in problem-solving and decision-making.”

— Molly Choi, Head of Client Management, Asia

The power of face-to-face connections

In an increasingly digital world, the power of in-person interactions remains unmatched. Business travel isn’t just about boardroom meetings, it’s about the spontaneous moments that spark collaboration and innovation.

“It’s all the interactions around my central travel purpose that give me the most value. The conversations in the lift, the coffee queue discussions – those lead to new ideas, partnerships and action.”

— Lauren Hook, Global Head of Sustainability

The impact of in-person meetings is particularly important for women in leadership roles, helping them build credibility, strengthen relationships and open doors to new opportunities.

“At the heart of every successful business interaction is a strong relationship. Meeting people in person builds trust and understanding. Every trip is a chance to expand influence, learn from diverse perspectives and create leadership opportunities that drive meaningful change.”

— Eleanor Noonan, Global Chief Operating Officer

“Professionally, I have had the pleasure of meeting so many people in businesses who have inspired me with the work they do. I don’t waste these opportunities and absorb as much information as I can. You will be surprised how much you get out of it and what you can use professionally and personally.”

— Christy Prescott, CEO, Collegiate Travel Planners

Travel’s role in advancing diversity & inclusion

Business travel is a powerful tool for driving diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Exposure to different cultures fosters a broader perspective, making leaders more effective in managing diverse teams.

“Travel cultivates resilience. You learn to navigate uncertainty, differing expectations and unfamiliar environments. Ultimately, it builds a more inclusive leadership style, ensuring diverse teams feel valued and understood.”

— Anita Salvatore, CEO North America

“As a leader, I have gained through experience a clearer understanding of the importance of effective cross-cultural communication. I recognise the potential for misunderstandings in conversations and know the need to respect diverse perspectives, particularly what is considered humorous.”

— Penny Munn, Chief Partnerships Officer, Supplier Relations

Additionally, experiencing different cultures firsthand supports businesses to be more culturally aware and responsive.

“Travelling internationally helps unearth cultural blind spots and allows us to experience what it feels like to be different or the minority in a foreign setting. These insights help shape more inclusive business strategies.”

— Jacqui Nightingale, Global Head of People and Performance

Creating a stronger global network for women professionals

Travel is undeniably a powerful catalyst for connection, and its importance has never been greater. With workforces increasingly dispersed across the globe, in-person interactions have become a crucial driver for building stronger, more cohesive global networks.

“Travel empowers women professionals by fostering global connections, expanding career opportunities and enhancing leadership skills – ultimately strengthening a more inclusive network. It opens doors to meaningful relationships, international experience, and innovation while inspiring future generations to break barriers and lead on a global stage. I’ve loved seeing female colleagues rise through the industry, mentored by women leaders, earning MBAs, and paying it forward by guiding and encouraging other talented women to step up and advance their careers.”

— Nicola Veltman, Co-Founder and Global CEO – 100 Mile Travel Group

“Business travel plays a pivotal role in creating a stronger, more connected global network for women professionals. By facilitating cross-cultural interactions, expanding career opportunities, and enhancing leadership skills, travel helps empower women in the workplace. Initiatives like the Women in Travel & Hospitality Leadership network are prime examples of how travel creates opportunities for supportive communities where female professionals can come together and connect, share experiences and inspire one another. These platforms not only elevate individual careers but also contribute to a more diverse and inclusive global business travel network.”

— Mary Ellen Hess, EVP Business Development

General advice to new business travellers

There are many benefits to be gained from business travel, but for those who are newly appointed in roles that extend this opportunity, there are some general pointers to consider.

“Make the time to plan. If it’s not a destination you’re familiar with, do some basic research to learn about the local culture along with the dos and don’ts. Travel can be exhausting especially when time zone changes come into play, so take care of your physical and mental health by staying hydrated, exercise when you can and taking a break to recharge.”

— Nicole Kolotas, General Manager, CTM Meetings & Events, AU/NZ

“I always keep copies of my passport and travel insurance with me and leave one with a trusted contact. If a colleague is heading to the same destination, I connect beforehand to coordinate transport or a meeting spot. And if checking luggage, I pack essentials in my carry-on because sometimes bags take the scenic route!”

— Penny Munn, Chief Partnerships Officer, Supplier Relations

“My advice would be not to let any business trip just be about business, make it a personal experience. Fly early or stay for a couple of extra nights to experience and learn more about the city you’re in.”

— Christy Prescott, CEO, Collegiate Travel Planners

The future of women in business travel

Business travel isn’t just about expanding networks, it’s about breaking barriers. Women who travel for business create visibility in spaces where representation matters, showing that leadership knows no borders.

“For me, business travel isn’t just about expanding my network, it’s about creating opportunities for women to be seen, heard and valued on a global stage. Every trip is a chance to build credibility and show that leadership has no limits.”

— Eleanor Noonan, Global Chief Operating Officer

“When women travel for work, they bring diverse perspectives to the table and help pave the way for greater gender representation in leadership roles. Travel provides access to networking events and face-to-face connections, which can lead to career advancement and mentorship opportunities.”

— Louise Hutchinson-Chambers, General Manager North of England

As companies continue to support flexible, inclusive, and purpose-driven business travel, the opportunities for women to thrive globally will only grow.

So, this IWD let’s celebrate the power of business travel – not just as a necessity, but as a catalyst for empowerment, confidence and limitless possibilities.