Create an action plan
Knowing what’s planned will give you an idea of what would be acceptable/unacceptable on the trip. So it would be great to speak to a senior to get an idea what the itinerary would look like to help you pack and plan accordingly.
Read More: HRCI Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
For example, If it’s a long flight, you may want to have your laptop handy and make the commute productive. Some other facts to consider are:
- If sitting next to your colleague/boss, a brief discussion regarding work can be done
- Will you be checking into a hotel or heading for an official meet directly? In the case of the former, you may want to keep a change of clothes, makeup, etc., handy
- You can also grab a snooze or powernap. Sometimes that really helps clear the head
Pack smart for an offsite company trip
Do take a brief or tentative schedule of the business trip so you can pack accordingly. Usually, a big suitcase is frowned upon. Consider a sleeker, compact one instead. Do carry an extra outfit in case there’s a dinner or drinks plan with colleagues. Remember that not all offsite trips are very formal. For example, a business trip to a beachside location may involve a poolside brunch — so appropriate swimwear and cover-up attire would be a part of your gear too. Keep in mind:
- Don’t rely on hotels for providing amenities like toiletries, robes, etc.
- Take your laptop/phone charger and power bank along with all official documents
- Keep a smaller briefcase or folder to carry all official documents
At the hotel during company offsite trip
Often, colleagues have to share a hotel room. Maintaining etiquette and implementing basic hygienic is a must on such occasions.
- Keep in mind simple things like folding/hanging your towels, not leaving clothes scattered on the bed, etc.
- Do not talk over the phone or watch television till late at night. Carry a headset or earphones that can be connected to electronic devices if required
- If you are a snorer, carry nasal strips or an anti-snore pillow
Even if you have adjoining rooms, carrying a robe is always advised. Besides this, do maintain basic etiquette at the hotel —
- Don’t indulge in the over-priced mini-bar refreshments — even though your company’s paying for them!
- Sleep and wake up on time — being groggy and sluggish during the meeting will hamper productivity
- Avoid consuming alcohol during business hours — along with an overdose later too
Make the offsite company trip fun — but not too much
The very idea of an official offsite trip is business — but why not add some fun to it. You can research local restaurants, tourist locations, etc. Clock-in your working hours and then have some fun when the job’s done. Of course, you should know where to draw the line. For example, a glass of wine is alright, but entering a drinking contest at the local pub is a definite NO!
Since you want to place your best foot forward, take into consideration the preferences of your colleagues and coworkers. So make sure that you-
- Take everyone’s opinion when making plans
- Dress appropriately throughout the trip — remember you are representing your company or firm
- Take out some time to connect with family and keep them posted on your trip schedule/itinerary
- While you do connect with colleagues at work, an offsite trip may be the right time to get to know them personally — where do their kids go to school or what their names are
With a positive mindset and apt behavior, you will surely impress your co-workers!
Read More: HRCI SPHR Certification Exam Syllabus
