Networking In the Clouds
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Business travel can be time consuming. Often, hours spent in flight, without a solid Internet connection and little space, can be seen as time wasted. In an effort to evolve the flying experience and make the most of time spent in the air, some airlines are attempting to mix business and flying, creating opportunities to strengthen existing business relationships while also creating new ones. Even at 30,000 feet, there are valuable opportunities for networking with business travelers in the same situation.
Following the launch of their TakeOff Mode app for anxious flyers, last week, All Nippon Airways announced the launch of Flight Connections. The website connects passengers’ LinkedIn profiles with ANA routes, showcasing a flight map of their global business connections. The aim is to encourage business travelers to visit more often, turning online connections into face-to-face interactions.
Also partnering with LinkedIn, last year Delta Air Lines launched their Innovation Class concept, which allows young and aspiring professionals the opportunity to spend a flight chatting with a leader in their field. Applications are vetted through LinkedIn by Delta Air Lines and selected applicants are awarded the undivided attention for the length of their flight. Multi-tasking mentors are able to share their expertise with a relevant seat-mate without adding another appointment to the agenda.
And the networking opportunities aren’t limited to the sky. Some airports are helping business travelers take advantage of their layover time and offering up dedicated terminal space for networking. Paris Orly Airport has launched “Espace business,” a free lounge area for business travelers who wish to network with partners or potential clients traveling at the same time. The service is free and offers users complimentary Wi-Fi and access to business news and content. San Francisco International Airport offers travelers a space they call #Converge@flySFO, a lounge dedicated to the exchange of ideas on technology, business or anything your fellow travelers may want to discuss.
Making flight connections isn’t a new concept. Several mobile applications like SeatID Travel, Planely, KLM’s Meet & Seat and Virgin America’s Here on Biz have been introduced in recent years, providing passengers with the opportunity to choose flights and seats based on the social media profiles of fellow passengers. Some applications allow access to other passenger’s profiles (with their permission) that travelers aren’t personally connected with. This is particularly valuable when traveling to or from conferences, allowing networking to continue off the tradeshow floor.
For busy professionals, the opportunity to use flights efficiently is valuable. These applications may also come in handy when looking for a seat mate who has indicated they’re planning to hunker down with their laptop and not make conversation.
For apps that facilitate connections for pleasure rather than business check out APEX’s Top 10 Social Networking Apps and Sites for Travelers.