Hitting the road to drum up some business? Lucky you! Business travel is an excellent way to build new contacts and promote your company’s interest in exciting new territories. However, when you take to the skies in search of fresh opportunities to expand your company’s reach, you have to remember that you are a brand ambassador from the moment you set foot in the airport, until you are safely back at your desk. As such, it pays to mind your Ps and Qs at every turn.
Here are a few of the most important travel manner tips to bear in mind when you’re journeying for business:
A full suit may not be entirely suitable for a long-haul flight, but when you’re representing your company on the road, you have to be prepared to encounter business rivals, as well as existing and prospective clients. You never know who might share your flight or airport transfer. Dress neatly and presentably in a well-fitting pair of pants/slacks and a smart-casual top/shirt, with a blazer or jacket to wear on arrival and departure. If you’ll be met by business associates at your destination, be prepared with a fresh set of business-appropriate attire that you can change into to before disembarking.
Your behaviour reflects on your company. When travelling with colleagues, remember to be mindful of other passengers when you engage in conversation in transit. Keep noise levels to a minimum. Similarly, always be courteous to service personnel on flights, in taxis and at every accommodation venue and restaurant you frequent during your time on the road. Doing so will not only result in a positive reflection of your company values, but will also ensure that you enjoy excellent service wherever you go.
If you’re headed for a country you’ve never visited before, be sure to read up on their customs. Find out how to best greet your business associates and make it clear from the start that you want to learn as much about their culture as possible. This paves the way for a mutually respectful relationship and also eases the tension if you should accidentally overstep your bounds, since they’ll know you’re open to constructive feedback. Another thing - always be on time, or a little early if possible. Punctuality is universally appreciated.
Following these guidelines will ensure that you portray your company in the best light possible while you travel. Keep an eye on the blog in coming weeks and months for more insider tips on making your business journeys work for you. In the meantime, feel free to get in touch with our team of expert corporate travel planners who take great pride in tailoring seamless itineraries that yield unbeatable ROI.
