Make Sure Your Business Doesn’t Miss a Beat When
If you’re an entrepreneur who regularly travels for work, you already know that business trips can be draining. Whether your travel takes you to a neighboring town or across the world, you need systems and habits that make it easier to get things done from the road.
The next time you have a business trip on the calendar, use these tips and tricks to prepare. Your travel will go smoother than ever before, and your business won’t miss a beat while you’re away from home.
1. Plan where you’ll work ahead of time
Slow and/or non-existent WiFi will ruin a business trip faster than almost anything else. If doing your job depends on a solid internet connection, it’s always a good idea to scout things out ahead of time.
You can check on WiFi speeds at your hotel or search for coffee shops with laptop-friendly reputations, but virtual office spaces are an even better solution. These spaces have everything you need to be productive, right down to the coffee. To find a fully equipped virtual office space with reliable internet you can rely on during business trips, check out all of Intelligent Office’s locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.
2. Schedule time to answer emails and get work done
It’s easy to say, “I’ll get to that when I get back,” while you’re on a business trip. Keeping up with your workload is even harder if you’ll be at a conference or in meetings all day. If travel will interrupt your normal work routine, try blocking out time in your calendar for important projects.
Treat these items like you would any other meeting on your calendar. When your trip is over, you won’t feel that impending sense of doom from an unfinished to-do list.
3. Don’t depend on in-flight WiFi
Some airlines offer WiFi on board, which can be a godsend if you have a lot to get done. However, in-flight WiFi can be slow and spotty. It’s never a good idea to depend on a fast connection, so use these tips for offline productivity to ensure a productive flight regardless of the internet.
4. Don’t forget to relax while you’re traveling
Traveling for work often means long days and little time for relaxation. But, even if the schedule is packed, you should still make time for quick moments of zen. If your travel includes long hours of post-work socializing with colleagues and clients, making time for downtime is even more important.
Relaxation doesn’t need to be elaborate or lengthy — sipping a warm cup of tea while decompressing from a long day can be rejuvenating.
5. Schedule a post-travel catchup day
No matter how well you organize your travel, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to get everything done while away. If you’re always scrambling to get caught up after a business trip, make the first day back in town a catch-up day (even a half-day can be beneficial). Avoid scheduling any new projects or big meetings and give yourself some time to settle back into the daily rhythm of your business.
If your calendar looks empty, consider scheduling a meeting with your virtual assistant to let them know how they can continue to help your business grow.
