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Travel for Business

For those of us that travel a lot for business to conferences, pitches, speaking engagements, meetings and more.

Share your best stories, travel tips, how to pack light, making the most of conference networking, meeting new people, and making your trip worth it.

Photo Credit: Surat

Network Leader: Rebecca Thorman
 
Sabera (Kapasi) Photographer Have you ever taken a vacation all by yourself? Like really visiting a place all alone and being by yourself from start to finish (except for conversations / lunches / dinners with the odd fellow tourist). What was it like and where did you visit?

55 weeks ago from Travel Addicts, Travel for Business, Slash Jobs and Young Professional Women (YPW)2 more

Maura V. Pingor: Yes! With my previous employer I had a business trip to Paris and I extended the stay to be a tourist for the weekend...all by myself! I just ...MoreYes! With my previous employer I had a business trip to Paris and I extended the stay to be a tourist for the weekend...all by myself! I just took a map of Paris and walked the whole day, ate great food, and had an amazing relaxing time!
16 weeks ago
Sandra Kitchen: Many times. I have had the occasion to go alone on business trips and I am not one to hold up in a hotel room, so I take advantage of the time ...MoreMany times. I have had the occasion to go alone on business trips and I am not one to hold up in a hotel room, so I take advantage of the time and go see the place whenever time permits. I enjoy the pleasure of my own company so I do not feel intimidated to do so. I've traveled alone to San Francisco, Las Vegas, New Orleans, Daytona and Minnesota - spent 4 hrs just in Mall of America alone! Whoo-hoo!!
16 weeks ago
 
Jamie Nacht Farrell I don't hate to travel, but I hate being apart from my husband. I'm unsure if its how I was raised (my parents did not travel for business and were / still are always together) or just that we've only been together for 7 years; regardless - I'm averaging traveling about 20 days out of 30 over a month time. I'm not happy about it; but at this juncture no other option. Anyone else ever feel this way? I almost beginning to resent clients that I'm traveling to; which is awful - any thoughts?

81 weeks ago from Consultants R US, Travel for Business, Entrepreneurs, Shotgun Startups and Location Independent3 more

Jamie Nacht Farrell: Apologies for taking so long to get back but I was traveling ( ; figures. To address over all first; My "home" as I consider it is in South ...MoreApologies for taking so long to get back but I was traveling ( ; figures. To address over all first; My "home" as I consider it is in South Florida - this is where we own our house. FOr the past 2 years, we've been living in Dallas. I really could care less about being tied to the community here as we are moving home over the next few months (ok, in about 6 months), but it's the 'interim' that sucks and Ihave to travel all the time. When I'm in FL, this will not happen as much, so really - all I need is to develop some patience... not my strong suit. The other side of this is that we've been spoiled; we've always worked together and thus are not only used to being together all the time at home, but at work as well; so this has been a bit more jarring. It seems that many people (I know a lot of consultants) travel from M-TH every week, but we have both made the conscious decision that we would hate that/not to do it.

@Rick - I am definitely keeping my eyes "open" for an opportunity - I actually have several of them and am acting as a COO right now for a business that is looking for me to sign on FT. That said, the job is in Chicago and I'm not willing to move there (or anywhere else but back to FL) for that matter. I've been told by several recruiters, NYU's career coach, etc. that I don't need to take a job afar because based on track record, I should be able to get whatever I want in FL; again - just no patience...and unsure I'm looking to go back to work UNLESS the "team" is the right one as I know I would be taking a large paycut going back to any company in really any role.

@Tom - you definitely dont sound like a DICK ( ; and you are 100% right on looking at different options. I've been doing so and really just need to be patient is key.

@Jen - your advice is perfect...and I'm the itiot - because I "cant say no". I guess this is one area where ambition and money is a downfall. Funny, because I thought I was at a point where I had found a solid "balance" and then BOOM - got slammed with 4 opps I couldn't say no to. What I am going to do this weekend is go through all jobs and schedule out. Good call.

@Jeff - I like the idea of the "lever", that said - unfortunately my areas of expertise are truly training and managing sales and marketing depts; I need to be there. So, while I could make the decision NOT to travel there - it would affect the company and my performance and I'm not willing to let that happen. I do like the idea though and for different types of projects, will definitely employ.

@Thelma - another great idea and we do this usually once / month. When I go to business in FL, we usually stay at the Ritz for a couple days first. In NY, we do the same. Unfortunately, I have 4 weeks of non stop right now and i like to be in Dallas on the weekends b/c I love my doggie almost as much as my husband -hahahaha.


80 weeks ago
: Have you thought about working to build a network/system that would work for you? It seems that you have a great business, but if you stop flying ...MoreHave you thought about working to build a network/system that would work for you? It seems that you have a great business, but if you stop flying around so much and in essence, "stop working", will you revenue stream still come in or would it stop? Taking the time in building such a system would allow you and your husband to enjoy life together, as it's meant to be. Don't want to sound like a salesman here, but I have such an opportunity that is extremely easy. Just takes diligence and persistence. Just something to ponder. Visit my website (http://www.blakegates.com) Or call me, 513-393-1835 if you would like more information.
80 weeks ago
 
JenG When I'm coaching people on career design, I sometimes ask them what they would do with their time if they won the lottery. Almost invariably, they tell me they would travel the world. I'm always surprised, because you don't need to win the lottery to do that now! This post reviews Farnoosh Brock's Fear Crushing Travel Guide and explains how it can help you live the lottery lifestyle (without winning the lottery). http://t.co/zmHp3Md

55 weeks ago from Creating a Life You Love, Career Changers, Travel for Business and Job Resources and Career Coaching2 more

JenG: Corbin- check out the two sites I listed in the blog post--Karol in particular is a great site, and of course, this is what Chris Guillebeau does ...MoreCorbin- check out the two sites I listed in the blog post--Karol in particular is a great site, and of course, this is what Chris Guillebeau does for a living.

Candace - Exactly. We think we can't handle one more thing, but if that one more thing is enriching (like travel can be), it doesn't weigh us down but push us up. So conrats to your sister! What about you?

Mona - Good add on airnb. Love that site!!

Whitney - From you, that's a real compliment. Thanks!

54 weeks ago
Candace: @Jen - I'm actually a complete homebody! I do enjoy travel, but in small amounts. As boring as it sounds, even as a mega-rich lottery winner I ...More@Jen - I'm actually a complete homebody! I do enjoy travel, but in small amounts. As boring as it sounds, even as a mega-rich lottery winner I would probably choose to spend much of my time in my garden or working on my house. That's my balance. :)
54 weeks ago
 
Amy Ng I'm back from vacation, but still on the road. I went from Hawaii time to Eastern. I don't typically hop so many time zones at one time. What do you super-travelers do to get yourselves on track in the time zone you travel to? I have meetings all week and would appreciate any tips!

56 weeks ago from Citi, Travel Addicts and Travel for Business1 more

JESS Kalinowsky: Getting a bug on vacation is sort of a 'expectation'. I suggest to my clients that when they are taking an extensive trip and/or going to a ...MoreGetting a bug on vacation is sort of a 'expectation'. I suggest to my clients that when they are taking an extensive trip and/or going to a 'exotic' destination they speak with their Dr. and get a GG shot, or heavy dose of B12, or whatever the Dr. may suggest. I have traveled over a million airmiles and Nyquil caps are always in my carryon. Prevents little bugs, and helps sleep. Breathing recycled air on an airplane is YUK! One might think I work for Vicks, but I do NOT. Just an avid traveler.
I did not realize kids were in the equation. Their Dr. should tell you what to do, and not do for them.

56 weeks ago
Noel Rozny: I find that getting a good workout in really helps when my circadian rhythm has been thrown off. Trying to eat as healthy as possible (which is ...MoreI find that getting a good workout in really helps when my circadian rhythm has been thrown off. Trying to eat as healthy as possible (which is always a challenge on the road) is key too. Luckily there are more healthy options in airports, travel plazas, etc. than there used to be!

In really dire circumstances, I might take an ambien to try and sleep, but I try to limit that to one night and only when I'm traveling internationally and my clock is thrown really off.

Enjoy your travels--hope they go smoothly!

56 weeks ago
 
Elysa Rice 10 Tips For Life On The Road -- do you travel for work? Ben Smithee has some pointers for those who spend a lot of time on the road. Have any of your own tips to add? http://bit.ly/ftQopw

75 weeks ago from Travel for Business, Travel Addicts and Productivity & Time-Management1 more

Elysa Rice: One I'd add to Ben's very great list is - carry snacks. I've been stuck on grounded airplanes or podunk airports or running through an airport to ...MoreOne I'd add to Ben's very great list is - carry snacks. I've been stuck on grounded airplanes or podunk airports or running through an airport to catch another flight and found that I was starving. Packing my carry on like I'm traveling with a 5 year old (hello me) has been an important lesson for me.
75 weeks ago
 
Elysa Rice just saw from fellow Brazen member Becky that this topic of #careerchat on twitter 10/12 @12pm CT is The Truths About Traveling For Work: find out how to make corporate travel manageable, your health intact (food AND exercise!) and keep your home life together http://www.brazencareerist.com/conversation/743534 I'm sure this group will have a lot to contribute to the topic

84 weeks ago from Travel for Business

 
Rebecca Thorman I am traveling this weekend and we are staying with my boyfriend's friend that is letting us stay with him (using his bed and he will sleep on the couch!) and he's going to let us use his car. I've only met him once, and I just think this is so nice. I'd like to do something nice to say thanks in return. I was thinking a gift card to my company, but do you guys have other ideas?

89 weeks ago from Work/Life Blur, Networking Tips and Travel for Business1 more

Jamie Nacht Farrell: I like gifts that show you are 'taking your time' / I think they are thoughtful. Based on your blog, it seems like you're a great cook. Why ...MoreI like gifts that show you are 'taking your time' / I think they are thoughtful. Based on your blog, it seems like you're a great cook. Why don't you pick up a bottle(s) of wine and some ingredients and cook dinner for him?
89 weeks ago
Melissa Breau: I'd suggest findiing out what he likes. Even though you don't know him that well, your bf does, so ask what his interests are then get him ...MoreI'd suggest findiing out what he likes. Even though you don't know him that well, your bf does, so ask what his interests are then get him something related. It will be more personal and therefore more appreciated even if in the long run it costs less.
89 weeks ago
 
Meghan Skiff Two questions for the savvy travelers out there: 1) I need new luggage for some upcoming trips. I love my current set but I know it won't survive another long trip. Where you do you shop for chic-travel friendly luggage? 2) It looks like I'm heading to China at the end of October. Any tips? I'll be on a business delegation visiting five cities. Tips directed at wardrobe would be most appreciated!

91 weeks ago from Travel Addicts and Travel for Business

Rebecca Thorman: Here's a great post on luggage - MoreHere's a great post on luggage - http://www.coolmompicks.com/2010/08/new_luggage_-_reader_qa.php - I especially like the first one featured!
91 weeks ago
Kate Wiseman: You can get quality luggage at way lower prices at Filene's Basement. If you're in a rush, just go and pick whatever seems like the right size!
90 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman I was in DC this wkend and was struck by how cool/important the jobs were of those I met - two people worked for the FBI in top-secret positions, many were in the Coast Guard, one girl sold weapons to other countries, several lawyers/finance, another sold jets, and yet another sold helicopters. The quality of conversation as a result seemed better than in other cities. Have you found this to be true in DC? Does a strong gov't sector create strong jobs? Are smart people concentrated there?

102 weeks ago from Government and Public-Sector, Washington D.C., Travel for Business, Military and Networking Tips3 more

Jay Hepner: Arguably the BEST thing about DC, and MoCo compared to any other county in MD, is the incredible diversity. People from virtually every country ...MoreArguably the BEST thing about DC, and MoCo compared to any other county in MD, is the incredible diversity. People from virtually every country in the world, every state in the country. That's the real romance of DC and MoCo. NoVa, too.
100 weeks ago
Ken: @Kathleeen Kurke--ditto. Lived in NOVA 3 years and now live in Tampa area. I slugged in/out of the district the whole time and by and large had ...More@Kathleeen Kurke--ditto. Lived in NOVA 3 years and now live in Tampa area. I slugged in/out of the district the whole time and by and large had better conversations with paralegals than I did with some with "important" job titles.
100 weeks ago
 
JenG As someone who calls herself an environmentalist, I've struggled to balance my desire to travel the world with the natural impact of such choices. I spoke with Sven Lindblad, owner of Lindblad Expeditions and a heavyweight among the environmental groups, to see how he handled the apparent dichotomy. See the interview here: Travel With A Conscience http://su.pr/78Eiz2

98 weeks ago from Travel for Business, Creating a Life You Love, Decisions & Choices and Personal Development2 more

JenG: Photis: Clearly I can't stop raving about my trips either! :) It's not just the 5 star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, or the PhD marine ...MorePhotis: Clearly I can't stop raving about my trips either! :) It's not just the 5 star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, or the PhD marine biologists and naturalists and Egyptologists, but the people that go with you! If I told you all the people we met on our trip, you'd think I was name dropping. I never thought I would like group travel, but Lindblad changed my mind. Now it seems boring to consider not going on a Lindblad trip. Definitely worth saving for! (I told my husband our Galapagos/Peru trip was a "trip of a lifetime" to justify the cost. When I lobbied for Egypt the next year, he said, "What lifetime are we on now?" LOL)

JR- Those sound very interesting too. I like the idea of trips that combine exercise or education with vacation. I'll have to check those out that you mention.

98 weeks ago
Raquel Elle Bell: Take a sail boat and then backpack.
98 weeks ago
 
Ryan Healy This is my first week not traveling in almost 2 months. I can't wait to see how much I'm going to get done. Traveling is great, but it takes a huge toll on how much real "work" gets done!

99 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Sean Masters: I'm with Josh here. When I do travel for work I wind up bringing work with me and using my flight/hotel time wisely instead of just sleeping it off!
99 weeks ago
Josh Allan Dykstra: I don't want people to think that strategic thinking isn't "real work," either. Of course we also need to find a way to execute, but working ...MoreI don't want people to think that strategic thinking isn't "real work," either. Of course we also need to find a way to execute, but working smarter is always better for everyone!

I suppose the larger challenge is to find where we do create the most value for our orgs and then begin to shape our worklives more in that direction.

99 weeks ago
 
Elysa Rice did the math yesterday I have been in 7 DIFFERENT airports (9 total flights) in the last 4 weeks. So glad to be home!

99 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Rebecca Thorman: Whew! I'm with you. I get to be home at least until August save for a couple road trips in July. Should be nice to relax and enjoy the summer!
99 weeks ago
 
Meghan Skiff I'm in PHX on business and was attending a happy with local YPs and was fortunate to meet these Gen Y rock stars walking from coast to coast to support the Gail's Angels Foundation. They are blogging (http://coasttocoastforacure.com/) and I thought that you folks would be interested in following their journey. So why are they doing it? They feel that in the past they weren't always appreciative for their good health and life and wanted to help those who aren't as lucky. Check them out!

100 weeks ago from The Appreciation Revolution, Gen-Y Professional Bloggers, Travel for Business, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals and Untemplater3 more

Samantha Karol: Awesome Meghan, thanks for sharing!
100 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman Our CEO and President are traveling again today. It's so interesting how quiet it gets when they're not here. Not bad, just different. Does your boss' physical presence make a difference in your office? What does your answer say about the future of things like co-working, telecommuting and flexible work arrangements? Do you need to be face-to-face with your team to be successful?

101 weeks ago from The Boss-Employee Relationship, Travel for Business, Alice.com, Productivity & Time-Management and Coworking3 more

Jennifer Koren: I have managed in both an office an environment and also a work from home environment and I can 100% say that you do not need to be face-to-face ...MoreI have managed in both an office an environment and also a work from home environment and I can 100% say that you do not need to be face-to-face to have a successful team.

Actually I feel like people are more focused when they are not in the office since all of the office politics are non-existent. Excellent communication skills and having a stellar staff is a must for telecommuting but if you structure it correctly and have the right equipment then there is no need to work face to face.

My current staff is positioned all over the east coast and works all different hours. We have our own internal community as well as video conferences and trainings to keep the communication flowing on a daily basis to ensure that we all stay connected.

I do have an office to go to but when I go in I am distracted by the office politics and social atmosphere and it takes a few hours off of my day where I could have been more productive.

101 weeks ago
Lee Thompson: I agree with Jennifer...in having the flexibility to work from home a few days a week or to go into the office, either works. Face-to-face a few ...MoreI agree with Jennifer...in having the flexibility to work from home a few days a week or to go into the office, either works. Face-to-face a few of times a month seems to work well enough for the group in which I work and for me.
101 weeks ago
 
Jamie Nacht Farrell http://bizrelationships.wordpress.com/2010/06/14/inspiration-at-the-airp... Had a semi cheesy moment last week while traveling home from my week's business trip. It always helps to be reminded of WHY I do what I do...work in higher education...versus a different industry.

101 weeks ago from Travel for Business, Education and Education Conversations1 more

Rebecca Thorman: Great post. I love working at the airport and people watching too :) And I LOVE meeting people from different walks of life. It's one of the great ...MoreGreat post. I love working at the airport and people watching too :) And I LOVE meeting people from different walks of life. It's one of the great joys of traveling.
101 weeks ago
 
Rebecca Thorman One of my best travel tips is to travel with someone else. When I travel with my SO, things are so much easier and less stressful. I also try to check the majority of my stuff (even with the cost), especially if my company is paying for it. As a woman, it's so nice to be able to run to the bathroom without dragging my entire suitcase with me (ha), and I find I'm much less exhausted when I can just pick my suitcase up after the trip. I don't think it saves that much time to carry on.

104 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Rebecca Thorman: Totally! I do like traveling alone for the reasons you say, but I've recently had some high-stress work trips where my boyfriend came along and it ...MoreTotally! I do like traveling alone for the reasons you say, but I've recently had some high-stress work trips where my boyfriend came along and it was really nice. I don't think I'd like to travel with co-workers and the like however. That would probably stress me out more!
104 weeks ago
Elysa Rice: I also agree that checking bags makes life much easier. I learned the hard way on my last trip that the flight crew (on American) isn't allowed to ...MoreI also agree that checking bags makes life much easier. I learned the hard way on my last trip that the flight crew (on American) isn't allowed to help passengers lift bags into the overhead. That was really fun! So no more rolling bag for me while I'm traveling alone.
104 weeks ago
 
Elysa Rice these are some great tips for those of us who travel a lot for work (or otherwise) - Packing tips and tricks from flight attendants http://dlvr.it/19pkZ

104 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Rebecca Thorman: This was great - thanks so much for sharing. I'm getting better and better at packing, but I haven't used the rolling method yet!
104 weeks ago
Tiffany Monhollon: I've used the rolling method, but nobody packs like my husband! No space (shoes included) is left unpacked :)
102 weeks ago
 
Neille Check out my "go-to-guy" for doing what I love! http://bit.ly/aNmf8c I hope you like @ChrisGuillebeau as much as I do...

105 weeks ago from The Windy City Crew, Travel Addicts and Travel for Business1 more

 
Ben Donahower Has anyone been to a national conference of state legislatures conference? There is an upcoming conference in Kentucky that I have been considering making the trip for.

106 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Sara Elisabeth (Burson) Willis: I haven't, but my husband has. Maybe I can put y'all in touch. He used to work for a state Senator from Alabama. I think he's been two or three times.
106 weeks ago
 
Kristina Summers I work in conservation and with the current trends in going green I am often encouraged to try and combine my trips in order to conserve fuel as well as using teleconferencing -while I do that - I agree with Josh that many times, face to face visits are just necessary.I work closely with staff scattered across the state in three offices and if I didn't make a point to meet with them several times a year,the connection I have with them, that I depend on to do my work,my performance would suffer.

107 weeks ago from Travel for Business

 
Josh Allan Dykstra I know there's a trend to cut costs by leveraging technology via videoconferencing, etc. -- and normally I'm all about using tech to accomplish this. However, I have this feeling that there is just SOMETHING about a live, human connection that can't be duplicated any way but through travel and an in-person visit... thoughts?

107 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Daniel Hoang: I typically have in-person meetings initially to build trust and relationship, then we can start having video conferences and phone calls.
107 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman: In-person meetings are definitely the way to go - I see a lot of services and businesses using Daniel's strategy to start in person and then ...MoreIn-person meetings are definitely the way to go - I see a lot of services and businesses using Daniel's strategy to start in person and then continue through more cost-effective means. But nothing beats seeing someone face-to-face, especially when you're usually face-to-screen :)
107 weeks ago
 
Ryan Healy Living in a city without a major airport makes traveling very difficult. I now drive the extra hour and a half to Milwaukee so I can get a non stop flight. There's nothing worse than layovers. Also, I just started taking AirTran when I go to DC, in flight internet is an amazing invention!

107 weeks ago from Travel for Business

 
Rebecca Thorman It seems I'm traveling every month for business lately. This week, I'm going to San Francisco to give two speeches. I love seeing new places, but often get stressed on how traveling breaks up my habitual work pace. How do you get work done while you're traveling? What are the best ways to make efficient uses of airport layovers? What do you do before and after to prepare for your trip? Do you work in your hotel?

107 weeks ago from Travel for Business

Sam Davidson: You're gaining two hours, so that means you'll probably wake up the first morning you're there at like 5 AM local time. So, you'll have a few ...MoreYou're gaining two hours, so that means you'll probably wake up the first morning you're there at like 5 AM local time. So, you'll have a few hours to work before you need to go speak.

For me, flying time means uninterrupted work time. I write emails, blog posts, you name in while in the air. Same goes for time in the terminal.

I'm actually more productive on trips because the distractions are minimized.

I could go on and on. I'm a business travel fiend.

107 weeks ago
Emily Jasper: I used to travel all the time for business (always have a valid passport, you never know when a call comes for you to be in Geneva the next day). ...MoreI used to travel all the time for business (always have a valid passport, you never know when a call comes for you to be in Geneva the next day). Like everyone here, I'm really productive in airports and on trips. One lesson I learned early on was put flight information on your calendar, including when you have layovers. I had always done this, but coworkers who didn't know I traveled panicked when they couldn't get in touch with me (cause I was on a plane) and they hadn't looked at my calendar. Eventually they learned my info was there, and then panicking stopped.
107 weeks ago
 

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