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You’ve landed a job that sends you traveling…hooray! Of course, you’re getting ready not only for that big meeting, but also to inspire some serious jealousy via your social feeds. But doing a little homework on what to pack and how to act before you go is essential. Between business travel etiquette and business travel tech, you’ll be in…business.
Tech
So hopefully your job is taking pretty good care of you, and you may have a cool expense account to take on a few meals. But there are a few carefully chosen essentials you might invest in to make your time away as smooth and effective as possible.
Mobile hotspot
There’s nothing more frustrating than limited connections, especially when you’re traveling internationally. Xcom Global makes a mobile hotspot that works in 200 countries and is reasonably priced.
Beating Jet Lag
We’ve all got strategies from drinking lots of water to necking a pint of espresso. You could splash out on a Neuroon sleep mask, which will blast you with light while asleep (light is one of the main things that can help you beat jet lag) and also works as a gentle alarm clock. Or, you stay in the sun, exercise, and bring some Brazil nuts for bedtime (they contain magnesium which is known to be relaxing for muscles – not quite Xanax, but easier to get.)
Charging
The TYLT Energi 2K Travel Charger doesn’t need any wires (other than the one for your phone) and already all fitted with built-in outlet prongs. So it’s light and easy to pack, but will get your charging jobs done.
Culture
When you’re prepping for a big meeting, or just to meet overseas colleagues for the first time, don’t forget to prep yourself for any big no-nos or must-dos that, if you miss them, could cost you the relationship. This is not the time to just say it again, louder. Here are some favorite international dos and don’ts.
Do: Check your watch. In Italy, if you’re less than half an hour late for a casual meeting, it’s no big thing. In India, while social lateness is acceptable, being punctual to a meeting is impressive. And in Germany (sorta stereotypically) you should not even be a couple minutes late, as that can be offensive!
Don’t: Make the mistake of thinking that small talk is always a waste of people’s time. In many cultures, business is done only AFTER getting to know each other, and you may spend time over a few meals or the larger part of a meeting focused on what seems like just a chat. Some examples are India, China, and Peru…in China, expect big meals, with food that keeps coming unless you leave a little on your plate (a clean plate means you’re still hungry and your hosts haven’t fed you enough!).
Do: Learn some language. Even if it’s just please and thank you. If you are able to, work with a translator to ease things along.
Don’t: Ignore important local quirks. For example: present your business card with both hands in Japan and never play with anyone else’s! Eat only with your right hand in India. And offer a gift at least 3 times in China, as it’s customary to refuse it that many times before accepting. Look up the culture you’re visiting before you go.
Tea, coffee and saunas: say yes!
One golden rule to follow – if you’re asked to have tea or coffee with someone, say YES. It’s often a way to open a longer conversation and develop the relationship. While it sounds obvious here, in context you might be asked at times that would feel awkward in the States, and be inclined to say no. And in Finland, don’t be surprised if you’re invited to have a sauna with colleagues. It’s considered a positive sign for the project!
Got more great business travel tips? Share them with us in the comments.
Source: gogobot.com