There’s a certain amount of pride in being sent on a business trip. This is because not only has a brand chosen you to represent them, but because you likely have some value to add, or something to learn in another location. Yet while business trips can come and serve as a nice change in your day to day working experience, it’s also important to recognize that long-haul travel, coupled with the rigours of performing your job in a new location, can be quite tiring to deal with.
It’s important to be on your A-game when on a placement, if only so that the company might send you again. For this reason, you’ll likely need to take a closer look at the link between your personal and professional needs, how they propagate, and what positive measures you can use for surviving this intensive experience.
With that in mind, we would like to discuss some of the following advice. The more you’re able to keep this to heart, the better you’ll fair, and the more you can enjoy this entire process:
Sleep Where You Can
Get your sleep where you can, because jet lag, immediate business meetings, or seminars and training expeditions can be tough on the body and mind. This might mean taking naps where possible, purchasing a travel pillow to catch some Z’s on the plane, or taking at least a day to readjust to the natural timing of the new country you’re in. If driving overnight to the destination, don’t be afraid to take a stop in a humble hotel just to get some shuteye. Sleep is essential for a successful business trip.
Keep The Indulgences Low
The indulgences you enjoy could be considered quite vast when on a business trip, because you’re away from home, sometimes alone or with your colleagues, and on the company’s dime. That said, going into a meeting hungover in the morning won’t do, or heading out on the town and making a fool out of yourself doesn’t look that great if you’re recognized. We’re not here to judge you of course, but do your best to keep indulgences low so that you can prioritize your time there in a productive sense - this makes the evenings where you can have a little fun that much more enjoyable.
Utilize Smart & Durable Equipment
Even if you’re traveling to a super slick corporate affair, travel can be hard on the body and certainly hard on the luggage you bring. This is why it’s helpful to bring along something that you only have to wash a couple of times a day while also ensuring it doesn’t break or that you don’t have to be without your comforts, such as great bulk travel mugs, or larger durable bags for your laptop that prevent drop damage or the clumsy hands at customs.
With this advice, we hope you can continue to survive long-haul business trips for the better.