Last week, I had a chance to visit Hong Kong with my senior colleagues. The experience of meeting managing directors, human resource vice presidents, training heads, and learning & development managers of top companies in the banking, property, logistics, engineering and consulting industries was both exciting and engaging.
While traveling for work can seem glamorous on the surface, it can sometimes turn out to be a taxing experience. However, with the right preparation, business trips can go smoothly and be enjoyable.
Below are my top 5 tips for business travel:
1. Pack appropriately
Organize your luggage and put everything in its designated place. Bring important documents like your passport, ID, and other booking details. Have a soft copy of those files on your phone in case of emergencies. Make sure that gadgets like your mobile phone and laptop are fully charged. Bring clothing and shoes that are versatile. Pack light.
2. Map out your day
Before leaving the country, plan ahead. Create maps for all your appointments. Google Maps gives you different transportation modes (via car, train, or on foot) with exact directions and an estimated time of travel. Download an offline map app on your phone to get a general idea of directions when you have no internet access.
3. Represent your company well
Remember that when you meet prospects or clients, whether inside and outside your home country, you are representing your company. How you dress and what you say give the people you meet a first-hand impression of what your company is like.
4. Talk to your bank and keep your receipts
Inform your bank in advance about your destination and the dates you will be there to make sure that your credit and debit cards are working. Keep your receipts for company records or reimbursements when you get back.
5. Eat and sleep right
Pack in advance and get as much sleep as you can before the trip. Eating properly and getting at least a minimum amount of sleep make you function better throughout the entire day and for the duration of the trip.