Business trips are an essential part of growing a business. Whether meeting clients, making new partnerships or forging new relationships with suppliers, there is no substitute for the physical business trip. This is also true whether the trip in question is domestic or international; indeed, international introductions benefit all the more from the personal touch.
But planning a business trip can naturally be a complex endeavour. There is much to think about at once, not only with regard to socialization or public speaking but also in relation to logistics. Here are some essential, core tips for administrating your next business trip with the best possible results in mind.
Naturally, the most pressing matters for any business trips are those of travel and accommodation. You will need to ensure your flights or trains are at a suitable hour for your schedule. An early rise may be necessary to arrive in a timely manner; if hosted by another organization, their schedule should come before yours. Your travel time can be effectively used to further your business, but their time waiting for you cannot be recompensed.
However, there is one other important factor to consider: luggage storage. By storing your suitcase safely and securely, you can avoid the hassle of lugging it around with you everywhere you go. This is especially important if you plan your schedule that could be a bit tight. Luggage storage also allows you to pack lighter, as you won’t have to worry about carrying everything with you on the plane or in the car. And if you’re travelling with valuables, storing them in your luggage can help to protect them from loss or damage. So next time you’re packing for a business trip, don’t forget to consider luggage storage. It could make your journey much more enjoyable.
You will also need to ensure that your accommodation is in a suitable place for the purpose of your visit. As an example, you might be attending a conference in a European city. Your accommodation should be as close as possible to the conference space, or within walking distance of a direct transport route. This will ensure minimal delays in getting to appointments, as well as ample time to prepare in your room.
Whatever the purpose of your business trip, you will most likely be bringing various items of electronics with you. You are guaranteed to be bringing a laptop or tablet of some kind, as well as a smartphone and various peripherals in the form of earphones and portable keyboards. You may also be bringing specialist items, whether projectors or sample products from your business.
Whatever it is that you are bringing, you should ensure that you devote equal and separate attention to the packing of your electronics as you do to the packing of your clothes and toiletries. Your laptop bag or case should be kitted with your power supply and peripherals; you should also ensure you have the power cords for any and every item you’re bringing with you.
If travelling to a foreign nation, there are further considerations you need to make regarding your electronics. Other countries’ power supplies will not necessarily reflect that of the US’ – namely, a 110V power grid.
As such, not only will you need different plug types for different wall outlets but also a power converter so as not to fry your technology. Spare battery packs for your phone are also a must in this regard, in case you cannot find a suitable outlet in transit.