The fact that you are about to go on a trip to conduct business is stressful enough. Especially if you are about to negotiate new terms, make an offer, or close a deal. On the other hand, traveling on its own is not without its stressful details as well. These two combined can be a real burden for you. Therefore, take a look at these tips for having a stress-free business trip.
Planning Out the Trip
Figure out what will make the trip count as a successful one and make a plan for it to happen. Have a well-organized itinerary that predicts your flight, accommodation, meeting time, place, and everything you need for that meeting. Make a checklist and stick to it. You will feel more relaxed when you plan out the scenarios in your head beforehand, especially if you know what you are doing.
Choosing the Right Flight
This is not the time to save money. Splurge on the business class in which you will feel comfortable and pampered. Also, avoid changing flights or any stops if you can. Learn that there is a difference between a direct flight and a non-stop flight. While the direct one can have stops, the non-stop one does not. You do not need the stress of changing planes and waiting.
Not Making It All about the Work
This is very good advice for those that get anxious and nervous about their business meetings. Don’t make that meeting the only thing that you are about to do that day. It will still be important, but it will not be the only highlight and that will help take the edge off. For example, when in LA, make sure that you get some LA Clippers tickets later on the same day. You will be able to take care of business while enjoying your stay as well.
Making Yourself Comfortable
Pick a hotel that you really like. Pay extra for room service if you love that sort of thing. Make sure that your hotel is within walking distance or not more than two metro stops away from the place of your meeting. This will soothe your mind because you will be comfortable and you know that it will be impossible to be late. Enjoy your nice hotel and get to the meeting stress-free.
Packing and Repacking
This is another factor where you should definitely use a checklist. Make a list of all the items that you will need on your business trip. Choose what you will wear at your meetings, but also make sure that this isn’t the only clothes that you will bring. Have something casual in your suitcase, so you can walk around a bit or visit a café or restaurant.
Extra Days Help
If you can find the time in your schedule, always make sure that you have extra days before and/or after the trip. In this way, you will be able to get comfortable in your surroundings and you will have more confidence when going to your meetings or conducting business.
Every plan and every meeting have their own critical points. Think of the things that you do not want to happen, but try to imagine them happening. Make sure that you pinpoint all of them and think of a scenario that solves those problems. In this way, you will be certain that you can prevent all the bad things that could possibly happen.
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via Dan Radak
Dan Radak is a web hosting security professional with ten years of experience. He is a coauthor on several websites and regular contributor to BizzMark Blog. Currently, he is working with a number of companies in the field of online security, closely collaborating with a couple of e-commerce companies.
