Travelling for business is often essential in order to build your brand and relationships with clients, suppliers and professional associates. However, if you are not organised, it can be a stressful experience. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your “A” game when it comes to business trips.
1. Make use of the airport lounges
Airlines expect you to be at the airport several hours before your flight. However, while this ensures that you have enough time to check in, go through departures and board your plane, it can also mean you spend a lot of time sitting around with crowds of people. While there is no way you can get away with arriving ten minutes before your flight and simply walking onto the plane, you can make your time at the airport a bit more bearable by visiting the airport lounge. Facilities vary from airport to airport but most lounges offer comfortable seating, include food and drink, WIFI and somewhere quiet to relax and prepare for your flight. Take a book, catch up on some work or watch movies online. Free movie streaming makes it more convenient than ever to check out the latest films or see your favourites again.
Airport lounges are a godsend if your flight is delayed and staff at some lounges can even help you change your seat if you need to. Prices of airport lounges are $50-$60 a time, so if you are a frequent traveller it is worth investing in a yearly membership. This cost around $450. Alternatively some premium credit cards include lounge entry in their price. However, it is worth checking which lounges it includes before signing up. Airport lounges can also be legitimately included in your business expenses as they are part of your trip.
2. Request an upgraded hotel room
Having a nice hotel room isn’t everything but it can make a difference especially if you are spending a lot of time there during your trip. The easiest way to achieve this is by simply asking the clerk on the desk, when you arrive if they have anything a bit nicer available. They usually have the authority to do this and as the room would otherwise be unused it doesn’t cost the hotel anything extra. Be polite and courteous when you ask though as being demanding and rude will get you nowhere. You can begin a conversation with them by asking them what the view is like and gently asking if they have anything on a different floor or closer to the pool, etc. The worst they can say is no. If there is something wrong with your room or have been made to wait a long time then you will be in a better position to get an upgrade, but still be polite.
3. Make an effort with your attire
Many people dress for comfort when travelling. This is understandable as when you are on a long journey you just want to relax. Unfortunately people still judge us on the way we dress. Wearing something smart for your flight will usually ensure staff are more attentive and you are taken seriously if there is an issue. It can also help you get upgrades both on the flight and with hotel rooms too as you already look the part. Dressing smartly will make you stand out from the people in loungewear and could help you bag better service.
