How to Behave Appropriately on Business Travel

Business travel can bring out the worst in some people. You're stressed, away from loved ones and tired. Even though you may want to show up for the flight in your sweatpants, you're on a business trip. That means maintaining a level of professionalism in your dress, attitude and behavior the entire time.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Be polite. This includes when you're dealing with airport security, checking into your hotel or waiting in a line for a cab. You're representing your employer, after all.

2. Act courteous to your co-workers. Just because you're stressed doesn't give you the right to be curt with them.

3. Get your own rooms. Sometimes a company may try to put two co-workers of the same sex in a shared hotel room. This can lead to a uncomfortable situation. Separate yourselves.

4. Know when you end your business for the day. Business trips don't automatically mean that you work well into the night. Everyone needs a break from work and each other.

5. Dress appropriately for all the activities. Since you're on a business trip, you should maintain some level of professionalism throughout.

6. Be on time for everything. Nothing turns some people off more than constant lateness. It's considerate to be on time or even early for meetings, meals and gatherings.

Tips & Warnings

• Pack only what you need. Don't expect to drag several suitcases with you.
• Be considerate of co-workers' time. Everyone needs some time to themselves during a business trip.
• Keep all your receipts in case you need to turn them in for reimbursement.

[esmy]

on 8/10/2008 Since when someone could refuse to share a room with a colleague, when your company cannot pay you a single room because of budget problems?

[MikoDel]

on 8/8/2008 Yes indeed, reading this article, I only can imagine the scenario(s) that prompted the Travel Editor to write it. Would make for some great close of business laughter at the bar, I'm sure.

[VickyWard]

on 8/4/2008 Thank you! I have never been on one before & have a weekend even coming up. I will be sharing a room, but I'll make the best of it

[AngelCareGiver]

on 8/4/2008 Very well written...I traveled for a large retailer for 15 years. Sad but true, some folks need the guideline, I saw all types.

[Kathy1958]

on 8/4/2008 Unless someone is meeting me at the airport and/or I have a meeting scheduled for a time that just doesn't allow for this, I choose to dress comfortably on an airplane. The airlines do everything they can to make it almost torture to sit through a flight of any kind of duration. I do not see any reason to add to that by wearing clothing that is not designed for comfort.