EXEC suggests some infallible ways to get more out of your frequent business trips.
- The secure way of editing important documents is using Google Docs server.
- Stay connected to your office networks on an encrypted Virtual Private Network (VPN). MiFis can be used to create Wi-Fi hotspots at places where cellular coverage is available.
- Disable voicemail while travelling aboard as you will have to pay when a caller leaves voicemail as well as when you retrieve it. You can try options like Spokn, Fring and Voxox, which gives you a ‘virtual number’, wherein you call a local number in the city and you are connected via the Internet.
- Stay in the same hotels as often as possible.
- Get to know the hotel staff, learn their names, and appreciate their service.
- Don’t buy souvenirs at the airport; it costs more.
- Keep track of your bills and file them in a separate wallet if these are to be claimed under corporate expenses.
- See if you can do some tax-free shopping online through airline websites.
- If you are arriving home late, keep something in the freezer that can be heated up for a quick meal.
- Email the people you met for the first time during the trip. It builds goodwill and will come in use the next time you visit the area.
