That First Work Trip of Yours
That First Work Trip of Yours
Strange as it may seem, business travel is actually a combination of the familiar and the bizarre. You are well-versed in the field of business that you choose to pursue. The business portion of your business trip, whether it's attending a conference or seminar, working on a software product, or negotiating a new business initiative, is likely not the most challenging aspect.
However, if you've never traveled for business before, there are a few key differences between business and pleasure travel, as well as some preparations that might make or break your trip. Success in this endeavor, like in any other commercial endeavor, hinges on thorough planning. Most importantly, when you arrive, make sure your business program is structured and ready to go. Before you set out, make sure your presentation is complete, your PowerPoint slides are ready and tested, and that all of your equipment is in working order. Your anxiety will be greatly reduced just knowing that you are well-prepared for the job you will be doing in this new city.
However, getting ready for a successful business endeavor is just the beginning. Before you leave, familiarize yourself with the destination and plan how you will navigate the journey. To make sure your vacation is successful, consider these important factors in advance.
Your journey in the air. Get on that plane as soon as you figure out where you're going. The sooner you take care of that, the more certain you can be that you will have a flight and get the seats of your choosing. Air travel for business purposes can become considerably less taxing with this.
In a strange city, while driving. Be prepared with maps and road directions if you plan on driving in an unfamiliar town. Driving in Boston is completely different than driving in Kansas City. Plan your ground transportation in advance if you can to prevent driving.
The lodgings. Naturally, if you want to guarantee that you will have a room when you arrive, book your hotel in advance. Postponing this is just a good idea in cases when you are unsure of the final destination. Finding out you need a room at 11 p.m. and all the hotels in town are booked is the last thing anyone wants to happen.
* Unordinary requirements. You should also plan ahead if you have unique needs, such as medications, that will necessitate preparation. You can arrange to have any necessary business items sent ahead of time so that they will be available for you at your destination office when you get there.
* Handling matters of safety. Airports are subject to strict homeland security measures, and the regulations are subject to periodic revision. There is typically a good method to find out what the airlines' current policies are and how you can travel with them by looking them up online. You may save yourself a lot of hassle at the airport if you know this before you go.
* Currency. If you want to avoid carrying around large sums of money on your trip, plan ahead and determine how much cash and other necessary funds you will need. Bring a large amount of available credit on your trip. Having solid credit can help you avoid getting into a jam in the event of a roadside emergency, but it's not a guarantee. You should educate yourself on the local currency before going abroad.
* Things that are expected of you. Attention to detail is crucial. To make the most of your hotel stay, consider what amenities you would like to have on hand and bring them along. A fragrant candle or your favorite pillow can go a long way toward helping you unwind and get a good night's sleep, which in turn makes you more productive the following day.
Prepare thoroughly so that you just bring the essentials for your trip and nothing extra. As your travels continue, this will start to become second nature. But make sure you've thought of everything before you leave home by preparing thoroughly and starting early on your big excursion.
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