An initiative designed to support members of the business travel community who have been furloughed or made redundant as a result of Covid-19 has been unveiled.
The Business Travel Association’s ‘BTA Cares’ scheme is being launched on August 3.
August will be dedicated as ‘BTA Cares Month’ as part of an ongoing effort including webinars, master classes and social events.
The support scheme will include bespoke advice and coaching sessions from industry leaders to strengthen CV and job search techniques, along with mental health sessions, accessible yoga and informal discussion groups to stay connected.
The schedule of activities includes helping to upskill, market and retrain members of the business travel community to create employees who are attractive to both the travel industry and wider sectors.
It will give employers a key place to point those who have been made redundant for practical and informative advice, and help former employees to seek new roles.
The scheme will also see partnerships forged with complementary associations and companies across the travel management community, with further details set to be unveiled next month.
Events in August include:
- a first-hand account and analysis of behaviours and mindset conducted by Pat McDonagh, chief executive of Clarity Travel and Dr Lucy Rattrie, a behavioural psychologist
- a webinar on how to look for career opportunities in other industries, facilitated by People’s 1st and Women in Travel
- a session focusing on bespoke career advice, harnessing LinkedIn and interview tips on “How to market yourself successfully”, hosted by Lynne Griffiths, chief executive of Sirius Executive Search
BTA chief executive Clive Wratten said: “The BTA Cares programme will throw its arms around business travel professionals when they need it the most.
“As we navigate a sustainable way out of the Covid-19 crisis, this initiative is the first step towards building a stronger community and extending a helping hand.”