For many professionals, frequent travel is a constant. A significant challenge for those who travel often is maintaining productivity without their usual resources. Early trips can feel overwhelming, especially if you haven’t prepared for your clients’ needs. However, with experience, you’ll discover efficient strategies. With some forethought, you can ensure seamless communication while you’re away. Here are twenty tips to help you stay productive during your travels:
1. Prioritize tasks: List everything that must be done before you leave. Handle crucial tasks like rate locks and file submissions beforehand.
2. Communicate your availability: Inform processors, loan officers, underwriters, and other relevant individuals about your limited availability during your trip.
3. Use electronic fax services: Sign up for an e-fax service to send and receive faxes online, allowing you to function as if you were in the office.
4. Create a resource list: Compile essential phone numbers, fax numbers, website addresses, access codes, and passwords. Store this information on your computer, phone, or both.
5. Digitize important documents: Scan or copy documents you might need to reference while traveling, ensuring you can stay informed on critical issues.
6. Save files to accessible locations: Save letters, forms, and files to a USB drive, CD, or email them to yourself for easy access. Convert documents to PDF format for secure emailing.
7. Check battery health: Ensure your cell and laptop batteries are in good condition. Bring chargers, and consider new batteries if you won’t have access to power.
8. Use wireless internet: If your laptop lacks a wireless card, add one. While hotels offer internet, it might be crowded or expensive. A wireless connection card from your provider could be more cost-effective.
9. Pack necessary cords: Carry an Ethernet cord and a phone cord to connect to the internet regardless of the hotel’s connectivity options.
10. Have a backup phone card: A phone card can be useful where your cell signal is weak, and can help avoid hotel phone charges.
11. Carry essential medications: Pack pain relievers, antacids, and cold medicine to avoid inflated prices on the road.
12. Download audio files: Load up your devices with music, motivational audio, or training replays for balance and learning on the go.
13. Maintain routines: As much as possible, stick to your regular exercise, diet, and hydration habits. Stay in touch with family and friends and set specific call times.
14. Plan your day: Plan your day before meetings, training, or appointments to maximize breaks and downtime.
15. Utilize phone features: Text messaging and internet access on your phone can be invaluable resources when you’re traveling.
16. Research hotel amenities: Check hotel resources in advance to avoid connectivity issues. Explore the hotel’s website, check reviews, and ask questions.
17. Pack snacks and water: Bring healthy snacks and water to avoid hunger or thirst during travel delays or traffic.
18. Pack light: Reduce luggage weight by choosing versatile clothing items and travel-sized toiletries. Leave unnecessary items behind to simplify your travel experience.
19. Initiate early contact: Reach out to clients and team members early in the day to address concerns proactively and prevent emergencies.
20. Be realistic and delegate: Accept that things won’t be perfect. Focus on priorities, provide guidance before leaving, and delegate tasks. Plan to handle remaining tasks upon your return.
Effective planning minimizes pressure and frustration, letting you concentrate on your trip’s purpose. You might even get rest and relaxation. Look forward to how the trip will enhance your business and refresh your mind and body. Safe travels!