Tips for Making the Best of Business Travel

After having your suit dry-cleaned, shined shoes, and convinced your boss that you are the best employee to send to the international exhibition conference, what comes next? First-time business travel can be an odd mix of anticipation and worry because you are getting compensated for the opportunity to see a new place while simultaneously being expected to make the most of it. Yet like with other journeys, preparation is the key to simplicity.

Business travel is still very common among all levels of employees in the Internet age, and modern technology has made the process quicker to plan and probably more pleasurable as well. Before you leave, make sure you have everything you need.

Make sure the hotel is convenient for a quick morning commute and reasonably priced before making your reservation (of course using the company credit card). Don’t cut corners simply because you aren’t paying for the trip because your employer will surely claim the tax back on it. Try to obtain as much for your money as you can, including free parking, breakfast, and wireless internet. Once you’ve found the perfect hotel, check to make sure it’s close to any dining and entertainment options you might require while you’re there.

Next, get your technology ready. It nearly goes without saying that finding an adequate internet connection when traveling will never be simple, so make sure you pack everything you need. Try to borrow a work laptop if you don’t have one, and always keep a small USB flash drive with you so you can transfer files quickly if necessary. Make sure your mobile phone is set up for foreign use in a similar manner. Last but not least, keep a copy of all your reservations, boarding permits, and itinerary in your work email so that a colleague can access them in case of an emergency.

Pack carefully the day before your trip. You might not have to check your luggage if your journey lasts less than two days. You’ll save time on the other end and won’t have to worry about losing your possessions if you do this. Pack as little as possible, with one important item—like a suit—and two to three coordinated shirts and ties. Although most hotels offer irons and trouser presses, it is best to call ahead and double-check.

Verify that everything is running according to plan by getting to the airport early and on time. Then, get on to the internet and start learning more about the individuals you’ll probably meet while on business, and if you have time, try to find a restaurant after you’ve there. There are many hotels close to Heathrow Airport where you can stay the night if your flight is delayed or canceled or spend the day working there.

At a conference or meeting, always have a pen and paper, and don’t be shy about making an introduction. If at all feasible, always address people by their first name to assist you remember who they are and to remind you that you are a representative of your organization.

Learn more about lodging options near Heathrow Airport. A digital marketing company hires Adam Singleton to produce content. A client of the aforementioned firm hired this writer to write this article. This piece should be viewed as professional content because it is not meant to be used for advertising.