When you have a busy travel schedule, you never know who you might meet, what connections you might make, or what new opportunities await. There’s a reason why a study by Oxford Economics reveals that for every dollar invested in business travel, companies realize $12.50 in incremental value.
If you get bored doing the same thing every day, business travel can keep life interesting and give you new perspectives and ideas. However, due to temporary local lockdowns and some companies reducing the number of trips that staff can take, the myriad benefits of travel aren’t always within easy reach. Here’s how to improvise in between trips.
- Sign up to relevant webinars, virtual events, and podcasts
In lieu of chance encounters at a live networking event, many events that were previously reserved for paid attendees are being offered free. Find events with speakers that are aligned with your career goals. The bonus of remote events is that you can listen to webinars and podcasts while washing the dishes, and network virtually when you're back at your desk.
- Be proactive about asking for connections
Take advantage of this moment in time when sought after people are generally more accessible because they’re spending less time in transit or on flights. They’re likely to be more open to taking a call or agreeing to a video interview than before the Covid-19 pandemic. - Use your downtime to plan a spectacular trip
The biggest reason why business travel is critical is to foster personal interactions. Face-to-face meetings can increase understanding, reduce miscommunication, and inspire creativity. If you’re taking fewer trips or still awaiting your first after a long lockdown, use your time to design an extra inspiring agenda or presentation.
Download our travel checklist and check for restrictions, leaving you free to focus on the fun part. One thing is for sure: We won’t take the benefits of travel for granted again.