In this interview, we join Beatriz Schwarz and Mani Sawhney, two of our amazing Enterprise Sales Executives at 3Sixty for a deep-dive Q&A. Discover what sets 3Sixty apart from others as well as what the future holds for the employee relocation industry.

1. What do you love most about your job?

Beatriz: The part I love most is being able to connect with people from all over the world and making lasting connections. A close second is the challenging nature of it always keeping me on my toes.

Mani: I love the variety of connections I make with individuals from diverse industries. Every day is a new day full of possibilities.

2. What are you most proud of in your career to date?

Beatriz: I'm most proud of my willingness to consistently step out of my comfort zone and learn, which has led me to many incredible opportunities including my current role with 3Sixty!

Mani: I take great pride in my current position, especially considering my relatively brief two-year tenure in the industry. I truly believe that I have learned and grown significantly to get here.

3. What sets 3Sixty apart from their competitors?

Beatriz: The comfort of having an end-to-end modern platform that is easy to use and compliant, along with the innovative integrations for support when choosing an accommodation. Mani: 3Sixty stands out from its competitors due to its innovative technology complemented by a personalized human touch.

4. Describe 3Sixty in 3 words.

Beatriz: Compliant, seamless, stress-free.

Mani: Global, streamlined, secure.

5. What challenges do you think the industry is facing at the moment?

Beatriz: There are definitely a few but namely there is a noticeable shortage of new recruits entering the field, posing a potential talent gap. Secondly, as we continue to navigate a post pandemic market, still in the process of recovery, adaptability is key. Where modern technology is reshaping the industry, and traveller expectations are continually evolving. Successfully navigating these challenges requires a delicate balance between embracing technological advancements and meeting the evolving needs of travelers.

Mani: The industry faces various challenges, including the ever-changing landscape of travel restrictions and regulations, the need for robust safety measures in the post-pandemic era, increasing costs associated with accommodation, and the demand for seamless and efficient booking and management solutions. Additionally, businesses are navigating the complexities of balancing employee well-being with cost-saving measures, all while adapting to technological advancements and evolving traveller expectations.

6. A little about yourself; what do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Beatriz: I enjoy traveling and exploring new places and restaurants when I can. I’m lucky to live near my family as well so I definitely spend a lot of time hanging out with them. But for the most part I love staying in with my kitten, especially in this weather!

Mani: I like to stay active, mostly by playing cricket, golf, or embarking on enjoyable walks and adventures with my dog, Lokii. Additionally, I have a passion for exploring new pubs and bars as a beer enthusiast.

7. What’s the one bit of advice you would give to someone relocating to a new country for work?

Mani: I’d tell them to check out 3Sixty! We can help them find their home away from home! But also, I would advise them to be curious, learn about local customs, traditions, and etiquette. Foster connections with locals and fellow expatriates, as they can provide valuable insights and support.

Beatriz: Give me a call, let's talk about how 3Sixty can help make the process more comfortable! Once you’re set up there, I would say to have an open mind about the experience and learn the most that you can about the culture. This full immersion brings new perspectives you may have not otherwise discovered.

8. If someone reading this was thinking about becoming a travel industry professional, what advice would you give?

Beatriz:  My advice would be to take the opportunity and to be willing to work and progress! This is an industry with so many opportunities such as connecting with like-minded individuals or visiting new places but there are equally as many opportunities to grow within your role and to develop to new positions. 

Mani: I'd advise them to seize the opportunity! Engaging in this industry provides the chance to meet and connect with remarkable individuals. The familial atmosphere and warm welcome from everyone makes it a place where work doesn't feel like a chore.

9. After dipping during the Covid years, 2023 has been a great year for the travel industry. What are your personal highlights?

Beatriz: I began the year working in reservations with a serviced apartment provider and saw the momentum begin to pick up there. I’ve found it so interesting to notice the change in patterns and expectations from pre pandemic insights as companies began to book again. Since joining 3Sixty shortly afterwards and being introduced to this modern technology, I've become increasingly excited about where this and other innovative technology will take the industry. The highlight has been this turning point we seem to have reached!

Mani: Having joined 3Sixty post-COVID, I actively navigated through the resurgence, witnessing companies resuming travel bookings. This was great introduction to the industry. Personally, the highlights for me include discovering a career where I feel I truly belong and transitioning from working in accommodations to a role in sales, because of truly believing in the innovative technology we have created. 

10. Finally, what do you the future holds for the travel industry in 2024 and beyond?

Beatriz: Like I've mentioned I believe in a nutshell the future holds space for increasingly more impressive technology and innovation in all aspects however the essence of why we as an industry are doing this will remain the same - to curate the ultimate traveller experience.

Mani: I foresee a significant transformation in the industry characterized by a convergence of technological advancements, evolving employee preferences, and dynamic corporate travel policies. Anticipating key trends, I expect the adoption of hybrid travel models, blending in-person and virtual interactions, a heightened focus on personalized travel experiences driven by data analytics, an increased emphasis on sustainability and employee well-being, the strategic use of data-driven insights for program optimization, the integration of technology for touchless travel experiences, and a growing preference for alternative accommodations, alongside the integration of AI and chatbots. These developments indicate a shift toward a more personalized, sustainable, and technology-driven future. Companies that adapt to these changes position themselves for improved talent attraction and retention, heightened employee satisfaction, and successful achievement of business goals.

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