The realities of business travel can quite often be less than the glamorous lifestyle portrayed in the films making being a productive business professional somewhat challenging in between sips of coffee, delayed trains and an out of control inbox.
With this in mind, I want to share my top tips on maximising productivity whilst on the road.
(1) De-stress
Business travel can often leave people feeling a little flat not only are you in an unfamiliar environment, you’re not settled, you’re out of the loop with family and friends and the food on offer is often rushed or unhealthy. It’s time to get your ducks in a row.
Get a clear schedule in place, and ensure this includes some downtime to unwind and de-stress be it popping to the gym or just chilling out and watching a film.
When the work clock stops, make sure you do too just because you’re away with business doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some “me time”.
(2) Don?t compromise
Whether you’re away for a couple of nights, a few weeks or even months, your accommodation is key. If you’re not relaxed and providing yourself with time to switch off, you?ll become frazzled and far less effective.
The bleisure trend of late has become popular for a reason more often than not, employers now recognise that inspired, valued and well-rested teams perform most effectively.
Make sure you practice what you preach to your team and opt for accommodation that allows you to enjoy your downtime, whether that’s kicking back on the couch with Netflix, or catching up with a friend over a drink while you’re in town.
On the next page, find out how you can live like a local during business travel and more.
(3) Utilise travel time
Where possible opt to travel by train as opposed to driving, not only does this provide you with time to relax if needed, you can also catch up on work emails and prepare for your stay. It’s also often quicker reducing dead time and provides you with headspace to nourish your productivity and creativity.
(4) Do it digital
“Internet everything” has become popular for a reason, so make sure you take advantage of time saving apps, offerings and deals to really maximise your productivity.
From businesses like Deliveroo that can deliver your favourite restaurant food to your door, to taking advantage of apps such as Uber to save time waiting to hail a taxi and dashing to the ATM for petty cash.
Whatever it is, use your smartphone as your guide it’s a simple and effective solution to feeling dazed and confused when arriving in a new city on business travel.
(5) Live like a local
If you’re staying on location for a couple of weeks or even months, it’s important to try and integrate yourself into the community in some capacity be it striking a conversation with the local chamber, or attending networking events.
Not only will you get the inside scoop on where to take top clients for impressive meals, you will help to strengthen your network within the city meaning you can draw on your contacts to support your business development.
In short, try to ensure that business travel doesn’t mean you’re stuck in a business world rut. You can be productive and proactive whilst away on business, if you focus on being healthy, happy and structured.
Gavin Bailey is operations director at?CitySuites
Image: Shutterstock
