Sometimes you'll be asked to go overseas and represent your company. Preparation is key if you're going to succeed in doing business abroad.
Work can take you all over the world, so if you're going overseas on business then you need to prepare properly. Failing to prepare can put the purpose of your visit at risk. Whether you're going on your first work trip abroad or are a frequent flier, even the most seasoned travellers need to plan.
The very first thing to do is make accommodation and travel arrangements, if your company hasn't already handled it themselves. Some people inexplicably wait until the last minute, but the price of airline tickets and hotels tends to go up the closer you get to the day of travel. Book well in advance.
Secondly, write up an itinerary. You want to include your flight times, hotel name and address, meeting times and places and the contact details of everyone you're meeting. You should also factor in some sightseeing during any down time, because travel is a great eye-opening experience.
Next up, get your documents in order, take out your currency and pack them somewhere sensible and safe. It's easy to misplace passports, plane tickets and identity documents, especially if you leave gathering them together until the last minute.
Finally, pack smart by packing only what you absolutely need. It's not a holiday, so you probably need less stuff. Pack both formal and informal clothing, any devices and chargers you might need and a spare pair of comfy shoes. You'll probably be on your feet a lot, at work and at play, so you want to avoid sore feet.
Without preparation, success overseas is highly unlikely and your trip abroad may be extremely stressful.
Make travel and accommodation arrangements early
Write up an itinerary
Gather together documents and currency
Pack smart by packing less
