Business trips: the road less traveled

The bleary-eyed business traveler is becoming a less frequent sight in airports and hotels across the country, suggests a survey developed by Robert Half Management Resources, Menlo Park, Calif., a provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a project and interim basis. Some 48% of employees polled indicate they travel for work less frequently compared to five years ago.

"Companies that scaled back travel allowances over the past several years continue to closely monitor expenses, despite an improving economy," notes Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half. "Many firms are capitalizing on less-costly communication channels, such as webcasts and videoconferences, to facilitate project management and information sharing between remote parties."

McDonald cautions that, while virtual interaction might save time and money, it often cannot replace the value of a handshake. "Meeting with clients or vendors in person, even if it requires occasional travel, strengthens business relationships by encouraging open dialogue on critical issues. Face-to-face discussions allow for more direct communication, enable participants to pick up on each other's nonverbal cues, and reduce the potential for misunderstandings."

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