How to Work While on Vacation
Working while on vacation is becoming more commonplace. Although the thought of lugging your laptop to the beach and participating on conference calls while everyone else hits the slopes is depressing, it's really not that bad. And if you schedule it right, working while on vacation doesn't affect the fun to be had or the relaxation you deserve. Working while on vacation is becoming the norm, so don't fight it, schedule it.
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Things You'll Need
- Laptop and high-speed Internet connection
- Wireless phone
- Notepad and pen
- Calendar or day planner
Instructions
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Plan your vacation. When making hotel reservations, make sure you'll have access to high-speed Internet and cellular phone coverage. Ask if the hotel has a business center you can use in case you need to accept or send faxes, make copies or make long-distance phone calls. Many hotels offer this service for free while others charge a small fee.
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Talk to your boss, vendors and employees before you leave and schedule all conference calls, daily reports and any other phone meetings. Try to schedule them between 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. your time. This way, you can sleep in a little and get work done before all vacation activities start.
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Schedule a time each day (or twice a day) to check your email. Let your office know when these times will be so there is no confusion if you don't respond immediately. Follow this schedule while on vacation and be sure to inform anyone you are traveling with of your work plan.
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Make arrangements in advance if you'll need child care during your working times. Many hotels and resorts have on-site babysitting services or kids' clubs. This way, you won't be distracted by your little ones and they won't be bored quietly sitting in the hotel room while you work.
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Commit certain times of the day to work, but be sure to commit the rest of your time for play, adventure and relaxation. Do not let yourself extend your work schedule if it can be helped. Enjoy yourself and the others you're with. If something needs your attention, someone will alert you with an email or IM. After all, you're on vacation.
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Tips & Warnings
Expect some phone calls while you're in the middle of having fun. If you don't have the directive to keep your phone with you at all times, leave it in the hotel room and check for messages once or twice a day. Be flexible with your fellow travelers and business associates. Understand and respect deadlines and project timelines.
Do not go on vacation and neglect any work you committed to. Be sure all business associates are aware of your vacation plans.
