Business growth relies on innovation. Whether you work in manufacturing or healthcare, you realize the significance of differentiating your brand from your competitors. Doing so with a lens on the future enables you to set the stage for growth. But in today’s world where remote work and virtual meetings are common themes, you may be wondering, “What’s the right setting for innovation when employees work varying distances away?” Look to the report, “Investing in Travel to Drive Innovation” to find your solution.
In-person meetings can set the stage for creative thought
The report from Harvard Business Review Analytic Services shows a clear connection between in-person meetings and innovation, based on a survey of over 400 business decision-makers familiar with their company’s business travel. The main takeaway from survey is that:
81% percent agree that in-person interactions – whether they’re at meetings, offsites or workshops – foster greater levels of innovation for the business.
That finding is a strong indication that companies should think more intentionally about in-person meetings at an intracompany level and at an external level with suppliers, partners, and clients. Bringing people together through travel to brainstorm and innovate may not have been considered before. You may need to relook at travel budget, policies as well as office space differently. The report covers those topics and more. You’ll learn about all the how’s and why’s of bringing people together, such as:
- How in-person meetings can help spark collaboration and innovation.
- How relationship-building is enhanced by face-to-face meetings where there’s a human connection.
- Why daily tasks might be best accomplished remotely.
- What face-to-face interactions can achieve over virtual meeting platforms.
- How attributes like empathy and understanding come into play when people are in the same room.
- Practical ways to optimize in-person meetings.
- How a well-managed travel program plays a key part in all of this.
A knowledge bank of best practices and keen insights
The learnings are supported by deeper insights from leaders in business and academia. They share best practices and shed light on the positive outcomes, like problem solving, that are likely to develop from in-person meetings. If you ever doubted investing in travel to spark creative thought, those doubts are quickly erased after reading what they have to say about the value of face-to-face interactions. While the ROI is more visible when your travel spend goes toward a closing a deal, their insights indicate that travel to drive innovation is well worth the investment.
As you look to crush your goals in 2024, get your inspiration from this engaging report by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services. Its findings and insights can easily apply to your company. Download the report now.
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