First Time Going Out Of Town On Business? Cut Down On Stress With These 3 Tips
When going on a business trip for the first time, it's easy to become overwhelmed with everything there is to do. Here are some tips that will keep your stress manageable as you head out of town for your first business trip.
Take a Shuttle
You may be thinking about driving your car to the airport or having someone else drive you there. However, when you have a friend or relative take you, you must depend on their ability to arrive at your home in a timely manner to collect you and drive to the airport. If you drive yourself, you have to deal with daily parking fees and walking from the lot to your gate. A better solution is to take a shuttle.
A shuttle service to the airport will make things easier for you in a number of ways. You need not worry that the shuttle driver will be late or get lost on the way to the airport and gate, as they go to the airport often. You can sit back and relax while on the ride over, or you can get some work done if you choose.
Avoid Checking Baggage
After a long flight, going down to the baggage claim area can be an unwelcome task that eats up time in your day. If possible, try to bring only a carry-on bag with you so that you can get off the plane and head right for your hotel.
If you need to bring a checked bag, make sure that you bring essentials with you in the carry-on bag. Any presentation materials, electronics devices and notes from your meeting should be kept with you, in case your luggage is lost.
Expect Delays
To reduce your stress, you need to be as prepared as you can for everything to take longer than you expect. It might take longer than you think to check in at your gate, for example. Your flight may be delayed. When you arrive at your hotel, the room may not be ready. Try to leave as early as you possibly can, even to the point of leaving the day before your meeting or conference, to avoid being tripped up by delays along the way.
Now you have some ideas for reducing stress when going on a business trip. Be sure to talk to others at your company to get more ideas that will make your trip easier.