A business trip means that you are going away for sometime to represent your company. Before you start planning what drinks and beaches you will visit, I would like you to keep few things in mind before you leave!
Remember about your mission
The business is sending you away to achieve a particular goal. It may be closing sale, conference or any other opportunity for business. Therefore, you must be prepared.
Make notes of all your appointments in your calendar.
Know the titles, roles of the people you will be meeting.
If you have any documents or presentations to take with you, have them perfectly organised. You may want to make extra copies, just in case.
Never be late for all meetings scheduled. You may need to plan out how long it will take you to get to certain locations. If you are ever running late, always advise upfront.
If you are travelling internationally, it is a good advise to research the culture, dinning, greetings for people in the country.
You may also want to learn some basis works in their own language. For example: "Hello", "Goodbye", "Please", and "Thank you", "Nice to meet you". You also need to have some local currency money with you so prepare upfront for it if possible.
You also need to ensure, that your passport, flight tickets and any other travel cards are organised and valid before you leave. Pack adapters, charges to ensure you are able to charge them when you are away.
Don't be fooled
On a business trip you must keep your professional boundaries. You need to stick to some professional guidelines:
Do not gossip about colleagues, managers, or any member of your company staff.
On a business cocktail party or dinner do not get drunk. you do not want to embarrass yourself or say things that may cost you a job when you back!
Remember, that even when it feels like vacation and you may be a little more relaxed, do not overshare. Nor stories from your own life or anyone else you all know.
Do not ask personal questions. Keep conversations friendly but professional.
Don't overspend
Remember to stick to your travel expenses and work with your company on booking the flights and hotel. If your company gives you a budget for meals, stick to it and always keep all of your receipts. If you paid an additional tip, write on the back of the bill to remember and advise your company when you return that you have paid it separately with cash.
If the company has an expense sheet available, ensure you have all information submitted, including the reasons for each expense. Non-business items, like spa or massage may be paid from your own money, but should not be on the list of business expenses. It may considered inappropriate for some managers and you do not want to embarrass yourself.
One of the approved business trip expenses would be for example: airline, train, bus tickets, car rental, insurance, diesel, hotel accommodation, meals, snacks, taxi, meeting presentations or printing document copies.
Some of the not- approved business expenses would be: gifts, clothing (even uniform), movies, cinemas, in-hotel movie rentals, fitness, spa, meals for personal guests you met, museums, amusement parts, alcohol consumed outside of work setting.
Always check the company policy to ensure you are not crossing the line.
Look representable
Remember to bring the correct attire with you for each meeting and occasion during the trip. Follow the company dress code on the formal meetings, trips and appointments. Even when you are on the plane or train its important to weal business casual clothes. You never know who you may run into. Avoid pyjamas or sportswear. For ladies leggings is a big no-no! Woman does not have to wear heels, but a subtle and elegant flats would be totally appropriate.
Make sure, that your clothes are not wrinkled and always look professional. For meetings avoid sleeveless shirts, tank tops, crop tops or showing too much skin. Your shoulders should be covered. Open toe sandals or sneakers can be left at home.
If you will be attending a business party or dinner, ensure you check the dress code and prepare accordingly. Not mini skirts or shorts please!
Relax on your one time
After he work for the day is done and you would like to relax by the pool or have a little wonder around the town or area you should never forget that you are still on a business trip. You may dress in your on casual attire, but remember, you may bump into someone from work and you do not want to look inappropriate.
I hope this tips help you to prepare and make the best of your trip with elegance and good manners. If you would like to read a little more about how to stand out professionally, read my blog here https://agnessopel.wixsite.com/qualityworkplace/post/how-to-stand-out-professionally-with-good-etiquette .
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