Business employees travel less frequently than in 2000, survey shows

The bleary-eyed business traveler is becoming a less frequent sight in airports and hotels across the country, a new survey suggests. Nearly half - 48 percent - of employees polled said they travel for work less frequently compared to five years ago.

The survey was developed by Robert

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

McDonald cautioned that although 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.