Business Travel Etiquette

When you are traveling on a business trip, etiquette is very important as you are representing your firm and want to make a good impression. So just what are the do's and don'ts of business travel etiquette? First and foremost, you need to be on your best behavior, especially if you are meeting with clients as you are representing your firm. Your company is counting on you to make a good impression.   Dress appropriately, a little on the conservative side is always best. Do some research on the client and determine what the corporate culture is at their firm. Are you meeting with the CEO or someone from sales? This will also affect how you will dress. Be punctual. It is better to be a little early than late. Again you want to make a good impression on the client and if you are going to get their business, they want to know that you can deliver on time. Smile and shake hands. Always carry business cards, they are a good way to network and reinforce your professionalism. When you do a business card exchange, make notes on the back of the card to help you remember the important things about the person. When making introductions, men introduce women and senior executives introduce junior executives.   In a social situation, limit your alcohol consumption. If you drink too much you not only make a bad impression but risk doing something to embarrass yourself and your firm. Alternate between a drink and a soda water. This will ensure that you do not drink too much and yet it will still look like you are part of the party. Keep small talk safe; don't discuss money, religion or politics. Safe topics include sports, movies, music, the weather and books. Ask questions, it is the best way to keep a conversation alive. Make sure you listen to the answers. When traveling with co-workers or your boss, the senior employee in the group usually picks up the tab in restaurants. Other wise take turns splitting the tab. If you are required to entertain clients, do some research ahead of time to find a good restaurant to take them to, or ask for a referral from one of the locals. Most people are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant to out-of-towners. When renting a car, the person who is paying for the car is usually the driver. There are exceptions to this rule; if you are familiar with the city you are visiting it is a good idea that you drive as you have a better idea where you are going. If the car comes with a GPS system, use it. It will save you time and hassle finding your way around a strange city. When traveling to a foreign country be aware of international protocol. Do some cultural research on business and social customs before you leave on your trip. Find out what time they eat dinner, how long they take for lunch, what time the work day starts. Customs are different in many western countries as well as Asian countries. Be prepared. For women business travelers, observe how local business women behave and model your behavior accordingly. What is acceptable for women in North America, may not be acceptable in say Latin America or Asia. Women business travelers also need to deal with their male co-workers or clients a little differently than men. Don't invite male co-workers or clients to your hotel room and do not go to theirs either. This could be taken incorrectly. Arrange a meeting room or other neutral public place to do business. When traveling on business remember to be on your best behavior as you are representing your firm. Be professional and polite; good manners never go out of style. Do some cultural research before you leave home, especially if you are traveling to a foreign country. Look and act like the business professional you are and you will make a good impression for both you and your company.