Jamie Biesiada
Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel, has some advice for those starting out in the travel industry with leadership roles in mind: "Don't underestimate the power of your voice and perspective."
I recently caught up with Hendley to get her thoughts on the importance of diverse leadership during Women's History Month. This advice goes beyond just women in travel, though.
Often in her career, Hendley said, she's seen young workers show up to meetings early only to sit in the back of the conference room.
"I would always encourage them to sit at the table, as they have valuable insights to share, and don't let titles and hierarchy prevent them from having a seat at the table," Hendley said. "If you have conviction in yourself and your beliefs, it is easy for others to follow suit, so never doubt the value you can bring to every table and every conference room."
The importance of diverse leadership
Hendley has long been an advocate for inclusivity in terms of women leaders, as well.
She believes "significant progress" has been made in the past 10 years toward more female leadership in the corporate arena.
As an example, she pointed to the Women's Interest Network in New York for American Express, of which she is currently the executive sponsor.
"Our employee network played an instrumental role in evolving family benefits for our colleagues, including updated surrogacy benefits, lengthened parental leave for both parents and expanded fertility benefits, all of which can be game changers when managing your career," she said.
It's important for the industry's leaders of today to emphasize and encourage diverse leadership, Hendley said.
Anticipate what's next in travel
Also important for those who want to grow their own careers in travel: looking to the future.
Everything, from the technology behind travel to traveler behaviors, is rapidly changing today, Hendley said. Anticipating what is coming is a useful exercise for anyone in the industry.
"The best piece of advice I would give to anyone seeking to grow their career in travel is to look around the corners and anticipate where the travel is going to be in the future, from generational shifts in how customers book and experience trips, to advancements in technology, such as travel inventory distribution," she said.