As a busy professional you know you work a lot and that could mean you should be prepared to work anyplace, too. Working on the road has become the norm for a lot of working people.
While it may not always be easy or fun, working on the road can be conquered with the right tips. Whether you are traveling by train, plane, or automobile to get to a client, conference, seminar, or meeting in this Digital Age, plugging in, transmitting and working from just about anywhere and everywhere is a lot easier than in years past.
For instance, after a long flight or car drive it’s great to know that at the end of the day, you can work even while you’re away from your home or office.
Internet service
When you’re traveling, you can’t always rely on the corner coffeeshop so do your research before you travel about finding Wi-Fi connections that are in your final destination. Also, have a back-up plan, like buying a phone card or securing a spot in a co-working space.
Old standbys: pen and paper
Yes, it could happen that while traveling you might lose your Wi-Fi or Internet connection. Or, you might be in a location you don’t feel comfortable pulling out your laptop, tablet or other electronic device. Instead, have an old standby of paper and pen close at hand to keep track of your ideas.
Working hours
Try and settle into a routine that maximizes your productivity, and do your best to stay with it. For example, are you more productive when you work in long, two hours sessions with a half-hour break in-between or do you do better when you work in shorter increments. Either way, follow the plan.
Outlet adapters
If you’re traveling outside of the county, you might want to consider buying or at least looking into international outlet adapters. You can but them at the airport, but you’ll pay less if you order online.
Plan before leaving
If you’re working with others, or expect to be connecting with them while you’re traveling, you should take time to set up your messaging systems prior. For example, if you’re going to be communicating via video, set up and test Google Hangout and Skype before you leave.
Video interviews or meetings
The last thing you want to do is be scrambling at the last minute if have to Skype with an important person or conduct a video interview with a client. Consider packing a nice shirt and jacket for a video interview. And, make sure you know how to do a video chat before you go.
Time zones
Keep track of time zones so you don’t make a call at 2 a.m. without realizing it. Most Smartphone’s allow you to set a clock for another time zone, or you can download an App to keep track.
Ask before
Before you depart, call the place you will be staying and ask if they have a Wi-Fi connection, outlets to recharge, business center, meeting and conference rooms and/or anything else you might need to make your stay easier while working.
In just a short time, you’ll have your work completed, and you will be able to relax and enjoy your surroundings wherever your travels take you. As a result, with your workload lighter since you were able to accomplish working on the road, you’ll hopefully return all caught up!
