corporate and group travel

Corporate and group travel - How to proceed?

When we combine the concepts corporate and group travelWe can get dizzy as to how we can relate outside of our city, and outside of our usual work environment. Depending on the type of traveler you are, traveling in a group for work purposes can be something to look forward to, or one of your worst nightmares.

When planning a group trip there are always all kinds of personalities. The leader, the shy one, the party animal, the demure one, etc. All kinds of characters that we must deal with in order to maintain harmony in circumstances we are not used to.

And now, here you are, reading this article. Looking for advice on how to make this trip without screwing up.  

Although the business trip group work can be a challenge, but it can also be an opportunity to work together, network, get out of your own comfort zone and learn.

That's why today we bring you some tips on how to deal successfully with the business travel and some of the reasons why you might end up benefiting from them in your career.

1. Plan ahead

If you work with a travel agency for companies or you have a dedicated person organizing the trip, make sure they understand who will be traveling (e.g., co-workers with mobility issues, allergies, different schedules, etc.). You don't need to plan every detail, but you should have an idea of where you are going and what you will be doing at your destination. If you don't have a lead person, designate one collectively or take charge.

Taking the initiative to lead can be stressful but it can also be fruitful for your career, especially if your boss and co-workers are happy. Just make sure that everyone's opinion is taken into account, otherwise the journey will suffer.

Also, don't feel like you have to do all things together at all times. Unless everyone agrees, it's okay to do things separately, too.

2. Get to know your colleagues

If you are traveling together, it would be good to try to get to know your coworkers, especially if you are traveling with people you rarely interact with. This doesn't mean you have to take up a lot of their time beforehand, but you can talk to them a little before the trip to see how they feel.

Maybe you learn that they are nervous about the flight or worried about their presentation. Or perhaps someone is very seasick and prefers to stick to ground activities. If you've taken the initiative to plan and get to know your coworkers, chances are you can accompany them, and organize them in a way that creates a sense of inclusion.

3. Take time for yourself and set boundaries.

Whether you decide to take the lead in planning the trip or not, you must make time for yourself during the trip. This is especially important if you share space with a colleague. Giving yourself time to relax after having to work all day can help you stay on track.

Consider eating alone or enjoying one of the hotel's amenities. Or you may want to go somewhere to call or video call and catch up with loved ones. Or visit a friend who lives in your destination city. But be sure to tactfully communicate to your colleagues that you would like to spend some time alone.

corporate and group travel

4. Don't share too much

Often when traveling with work colleagues, people tend to relax (which is not a bad thing). However, if alcohol is involved, people may start to let their guard down and open up about personal things. Or they may bad-mouth someone you're working with.

Be careful not to be the person who says too much. Even if you are having fun and other people open up, try to remain professional.

5. Participate in group activities

Some people are given to avoiding group activities altogether. However, avoiding all activities may give the wrong idea about you to your coworkers, bosses and business associates. Try to participate in some.

Group activities can be a good networking experience and an opportunity to collaborate. Sometimes a local field trip or a visit to a nice restaurant can help everyone feel more comfortable with each other. Consider suggesting something that is easily accessible to everyone.

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