5 Things to Consider When Going on a Business Trip!

In this era of hyper-connectivity, businesses have truly become global. The communications and technology industry is thriving by building modes of virtual connect for effective team management so that they can explore business opportunities with prospective and existing partners located in any part of the world. Yet, one cannot discount the fact that a face-to-face connect helps in building stronger business relationships and a lasting camaraderie. Thus, travel constitutes as one of the key factors that enables businesses have a wider, and foundationally stronger associations.

Therefore, business professionals must start planning for their itinerary well-in-advance for a hassle-free trip. Here are a few key things to consider when travelling for a business meeting which is scheduled in another city, or even another country.

Complying with Company Policies

As the travel is necessitated due to a business requirement, compliance with the company travel policy is essential. If you are familiar with the policy, it helps with booking the conveyance modes— such as flights, trains and cabs— by exploring options which best solve the conditions of both—comfort and convenience, and budgetary limitations.

Planning in Advance

Another key point to keep in mind when making flight bookings is to see if you have accounted for enough time to rest and prepare before the scheduled meeting, and hence, do not have to rush through them. In the same way, to avoid inconvenience, check to see if the hotels provide an early check-in and late check-out facilities.

Booking Accommodation

Book a stay nearby. If there are multiple meetings scheduled to happen in different locations in the same city, the most convenient option would be to choose the hotel in an area which is at an optimal distance from each of these locations and from the airport. Company budgetary limitations also extend to hotel stays, but knowing if your company has any tie-ups will help you in getting a good deal. Also, searching for accommodation based on certain amenities such as complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, etc., helps you in deciding better.

Researching about the Destination

A first good impression goes a long way in building relationships. If you’re going to a destination where you have never travelled before, research to know more about that place and the people.

• Knowing about the customs and culture prevalent in the area helps in building conversations accordingly and avoiding any social faux-pas you might unwittingly commit.
• Knowing about the food culture or availability of clean water to drink will help you to manage any dietary restrictions.
• Checking the weather conditions will help you in packing for the trip accordingly.

Checking for Documents and Necessary Electronic Equipment​

• Have all the necessary documents on your person— ID cards, passport and visa (if needed), and travel tickets, before leaving for the scheduled departure.
• Business documents are also important. If there is a lack of good internet connectivity in the area, back-up the necessary documents on hard drives or keep a print version of the same (including e-tickets).
• Stay productive by carrying your laptop or tablet. When short on time, the intervals of rest time during the journey will help one in catching-up with the meeting objectives and prepare for it.

As corporate travel forms a major part of maintaining business continuity and business sustainability, having a ready reckoner on how one must prepare for the logistics of the travel helps in leveraging the most out of the scheduled business meetings.

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