Five Ways to Win as a Road Warrior
Recently, due to inclement weather, I was stuck in a Delta lounge due to a flight delay for several hours. Since no one can control the weather, and my fellow travelers all settled into a long evening by trying to make light of the situation. We all started watching the Olympics together.
I never was much of an athlete, but while I listened to the strangers around me tell of their passion for running, biking, or swimming, I tried to come up with a sport I take part in that requires practice, patience, endurance, and ability. I decided I could compete in traveling for work.
Traveling for work is different than vacation as you are ultimately going somewhere to meet with clients or win new business or rock a presentation, and for me, it’s often all of the above. You need to be rested and efficient and ready to be “on”.
Here’s what I have learned that can hopefully help you be a world-class work traveler, and while you can indeed win Gold- if you stick with me, you can go Platinum.
1) Commit to an Airline- While many people say it is key to pick your life partner, I think the airline you choose as a corporate traveler is equally important. Ideally, your airline must fly from airports close to you and offer lots of flight options. Their program must offer perks and attainable status goals. And while their rules might change, you need to pay attention to what matters. I chose Delta which flies out of LGA, JFK, and White Plains (a small airport close to my home). I fly their partner, Virgin, when heading to the UK but otherwise, I never cheat and build frequent flyer miles. I also have a Delta AMEX which helps when I am earning status and to get me into airline lounges. Mainly the thing I have loved best about Delta is the customer service. They have trained their staff to be empathic and know there is nothing more important than getting home safe. Everyone is going to have their issues with an airline, and I’ve had my moments, but damn if I am not a ride-or-die for Delta.
2) Sleep Around when it comes to Hotels- While I am a member of Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and Accor, I am a sucker for a boutique hotel, and I care a lot about location. When I need to choose a hotel, I start on Hotels.com to see my options- then commit to a hotel or location and decide where to book. Hotels.com used to have a great benefit program and that has changed but the ease of booking remains. No one hotel chain has fully won my heart, but certain hotels keep me coming back again and again in cities I revisit often. When I choose a hotel, I like to go as central to where I will be working. I like a hotel that has a gym and restaurant, a bonus if they have a pool. I have even chosen a hotel due to its proximity to a Starbucks (where I get Delta points for every coffee I order). Good WIFI will make or break my work experience, so that is something you must always check. I like old school or highly modern places, nothing generic if I can avoid it. Top recommendations for unique hotels: The Pelham and St. Martins Lane in London, Citizen M, or The Maritime Hotel in NYC, and I am open to suggestions in Chicago.
3) Carry On Only- If you are going to be good a traveling you need to pack light and hold tight to your carry-on. Try and get one that has multiple compartments and is as lightweight as possible. Don’t get a black suitcase but if you must, get a color and unique tag or scarf to stick on it so you can easily identify it as yours. I rarely check a bag as this makes it easier to change flights or travel plans quickly if needed.
4) Pack These Must-Have Items for the Road- I know that I need always to have these but even I have forgotten one and regretted it later:
· Eye Mask- helps you sleep more easily and in various locations.
· Good headphones- whether you need to Zoom in a corner or simply listen to a podcast, get yourself some good ones as you will use them often.
· Healthy snacks- Grab an apple a protein bar or a bag of nuts, you will need this at some point. I would also advise getting a water bottle, but I don’t carry on as it weighs me down.
· A Journal- it’s hard to write when you’re busy at home but I always use my travel as a time to reflect, so having a journal in my purse or backpack is key.
5) Be Patient, Be Open, and Be Kind- While you may have the thrill of an upgrade and the treat of a smooth flight, you will face complications and delays along the way but always take a breath and roll with the situation at hand. Every moment is quite literally an adventure. Practice the “When in Rome” mentality to try the greatest local diner or take the most beautiful hike, wherever you are visiting. You can try new foods, learn new things, and meet the kindest people when you travel. Don’t just pack for a physical journey, be open to a mental journey as well. I never get more focused work done than when I’m alone in my office or hiding in a corner at the Delta Lounge.
Travel is one of the most exciting things you can ever do for your job, but the trip home is always more meaningful after you’ve been away a little while. I hope these tips help you out. Don’t forget to text someone you love when you land safely.