The business traveller has many unique needs. In order to have a successful business trip, secure and inexpensive accommodation is required. Most Australian cities have a choice of hotels and serviced apartments. Sydney, for example, has a wide variety of accommodation available in the central city. Business travel also requires travel insurance and cost management such as keeping receipts and staying within a budget.
Some tips for business travellers are:
- Plan the trip before departure
- Research accommodation before departure
- Compare costs of flights and use loyalty programmes
- Travel light
- Have up to date travel insurance
- Be mindful of document security
- Plan the trip carefully
Do research on the destination before departure. Use the internet to learn about transport links before leaving to ensure punctuality at meetings. Obtain a map of the destination and become familiar with landmarks like banks and post offices. This research will save time on the trip and ensure professional presentation and attendance at required meetings and gatherings.
- Research accommodation
Accommodation is perhaps the most important aspect of a business trip. Be sure to research accommodation before departure. Make a list of needs and check these against options. Make the choice of accommodation based upon these needs. For example, some requirements may be secure and reliable internet access, laundry service, gym facilities or meeting rooms. These facilities are offered by many hotels and serviced apartments. Sydney serviced apartments generally offer these services to guests.
In addition, accommodation should be centrally located and close to major transport hubs so that meetings and business contacts can be reached easily.
- Reduce costs
Travelling costs can be reduced by comparing loyalty programmes and flight carriers. Today many discount flights are available, but their services vary. Compare the services according to requirements. Many companies also have loyalty programmes which may reduce flight costs. Again a comparison between carriers will provide the most cost effective choice for business needs.
- Travel light
Travelling with a small amount of luggage will increase productivity. Experienced business travellers know what is required on a business trip and pack accordingly. Only pack needed items. Travelling light increases efficiency and reduces travel time.
- Travel insurance
Having insurance is necessary for the regular traveller. The insurance should cover all activities likely to be undertaken during a trip. Having a medical emergency whilst away can be an exhausting and time consuming situation. Insurance relieves anxiety and the experienced traveller will have comprehensive coverage.
- Document security
Security of documents and business information is a necessity when travelling. And with the rise of cyberattacks, having an identity and access management security system in place can protect critical business information and data. Always ensure that copies of documents are kept in a safe place. It may be necessary to keep copies on your person to prevent loss of data or you can opt for document timestamping for increased safety and security. Keeping paper copies of data may also be necessary. Other options include CD, USB or digital backups through cloud computing services. Keeping back up files will prevent embarrassing situations where data loss can result in loss of business. With the help of a mindmap workspace for remote team, you can easily stay on top of tasks and keep the workload no matter where you are.
A successful business trip is easily managed with good organization before departure. Simple planning can ensure professional presentation and punctuality. Being aware of document security, such as securing your entrepreneur pass, and personal safety will relieve anxiety and increase effectiveness. A business trip will be successful with adequate research and knowledge of the destination.
