It is not unusual for people to have to go on business trips. Although it was more popular before the invention of Skype, a face-to-face business trip still has it uses. There is no better feeling than securing business for your company. Still, that might not be the case unless you take care of the essentials beforehand. Read on to learn the essentials for a productive business trip.
Get All Of Your Documents Together
It makes sense to pack and gather all of your essentials the night before – that leaves the morning for tying up any loose ends. It also helps you to avoid situations like forgetting your passport or boarding pass. It is a cliché, but it happens to a lot of people. It could definitely damper your entire trip. Nothing says unprofessional like turning up for a meeting late because you missed your flight. You might not even be able to make the meeting, which would be unforgivable. Check you have everything you need and put them in a pile then you only have to pick them up on your way out of the door.
Treat the Trip With Respect
A business trip isn’t an excuse for you and your colleagues to go out on the town and party. Yes, you can unwind. But, that is only after you do what needs to doing on the trip. It is essential that you think positively and with clarity while you are away. The people that resist to temptation are the ones that come back empty handed. Work during the day and play at night for the best results. Just don’t go overboard if you are working in the morning!
Do Your Research
Never go into a meeting without knowing about the company first. Proper preparation is key! Take the time you have on the plane to research or in the taxi to their offices. Use that time wisely to learn more about them so that you can make a good first impression. A food company, for instance, should research abstract areas of the industry like vegetarian and vegan products. Read about here, and then use the information in your pitch. Solid research is that easy and gives you an eclectic understanding of the sector.
Don’t Forget to Check In With Your Office!
Check in with your office as soon as the meeting is over. They will want to hear the news! Plus, they will tell you what they will need from you with regard to reporting, etc. For example, they might want you to write up a contract for them to sign while you are in town. Some companies like to get everything done quickly so that nothing goes wrong. And, it is always nice to fly home knowing that you have done a good job.
And, there you have it. The tips above should help you make a hit the next time you go away for business.
Joules (from Pocketful of Joules) says
Great tips! One of my favorite things about business trips is that it can afford me the opportunity to spend a night exploring a new place. =)
Dana says
Thank you Joules! I love to try to sneak in time to explore the area I am in also.