Heads-up. Hilton’s third-quarter report shows a subtle but meaningful shift in business travel, and that can affect us. I’ve written several pieces over the last few weeks about market uncertainty. This report contains quantifiable data.
• Revenue per available room for business travel slipped about 1% year-over-year. (Travel Weekly)
• Their CEO noted corporate clients are “a bit rattled” by economic uncertainty. (Travel Weekly)
• While demand hasn’t disappeared, it’s showing softness, meaning fewer “business travel” bookings, smaller corporate events, tighter budgets.
What this means for us:
- Meeting professionals may be more cautious when contracting speakers or booking events. Specifically, lead times may get even shorter; they’ll want to see how much value they can get for their dollars.
- We need to be crystal clear about how we position our offerings. “Here’s exactly how I’ll help your event drive ROI.” Use outcome statements.
- It’s a great time to diversify by implementing virtual keynotes, hybrid formats, and small group intensives.
- Remind your corporate clients: investing in a speaker is not a cost, it is an asset for engagement, culture, and revenue.
I’m hearing from my clients that leads are slowing, and decisions are taking longer. Keep the faith. Let’s lean into what we can control: clarity of niche and strong client outcomes.
Copyright 2025, Lois Creamer. Lois Creamer works with professional speakers who want to book more business, make more money, and monetize their message.
Check out the newest edition of her book, Book More Business: Make MORE Money Speaking available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/ci7yWxz
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Reach her in the following ways: Lois@BookMoreBusiness.com
314-374-4007. Web: https://bookmorebusiness.com/