Destination Success: Good etiquette essential on business trip

Business travel only seems exciting to those who have never done it before. One of my first jobs was with a major college textbook company. I will never forget how excited I was to learn that I would be flying from Phoenix to Fort Lauderdale for a 10-day sales meeting.

Nobody has 10-day meetings anymore. Not only is it too expensive, it also is too exhausting. I remember coming back five pounds heavier, exhausted, with some virus that all the East Coast reps had.

The meeting stands out for other reasons, too. I learned about business etiquette in Fort Lauderdale. In fact, I got a crash course.

The truth is that if your company sends you on a trip on business, you are not really "on your own." You represent your company everywhere you go, from the airport terminal to the hotel to the conference center to the after-hours meals.

Be aware of your fellow travelers. When you sit down, at least greet your fellow row mates with a friendly "hello." Keep your work from interfering with your neighbor. Be polite to airline attendants and pilots.

Dress to impress. It is difficult to look like a million bucks when traveling. Clothes get wrinkled and make-up fades. Luckily, more and more companies are making clothes with microfibers which resist wrinkles. You may be the only person from your company that your fellow travelers will meet. At a minimum, wear business casual dress.

When I first started working, I went to a meeting wearing jeans and a T-shirt that said, "totally fantastic" in sequins. The first person I ran into in the lobby was the company president! Think about what you will wear when you arrive at the hotel.

A close friend of mine lost all of her "good jewelry" when her luggage was lost on a flight. Her suitcase was returned, but the jewelry container was not. If you take jewelry on a trip, carry it in your purse or suitcase. Don't take any jewelry that cannot be replaced.

Before leaving on a trip, find out if your homeowner's policy covers items lost while traveling.

Be polite, but firm. Have you ever been on a plane next to someone who mistakes you for Dr. Laura and unloads on you everything from their arthritis to Grandma's operation? You try to be polite, but in the back of your mind you are worrying about the presentation you have to give when you land. It is acceptable to politely say, "I wish I had time to talk, but I've got to catch up on my work."

Tipping. Most of us remember to tip the person who carries our luggage and to tip food servers, but there are others you may wish to remember. A concierge who does something out of the ordinary for you deserves a tip.

Last year, I taught a job search class in Branson. One of the women had worked as a hotel maid. She educated me by telling me that people often will leave a $5 tip on the bed for the maid at the end of the visit. She pointed out that this only helps the person who happens to clean the room on the last day of your visit.

She recommended leaving a few dollars every day, so the particular maid for the day will feel thanked. Tips will be higher for all personnel at luxury hotels.

Taxi or limo drivers should receive 18 to 20 percent of the bill.

Cell rage. Some cities have put through ordinances barring the use of cell phones in public transportation. It is rude to talk on the phone in front of others. It is distracting and often embarrassing. If you have to make a call, go to an area where you can be alone, as you would to smoke a cigarette. Never forget that people can hear your conversation.

Be kind. Defer to people with babies, the physically challenged and the elderly. In Los Angeles, I took a commuter train to work. One day, a very elderly woman came on the train. There were no seats and the train began to start. She was almost knocked off her feet as many young people just stared at her balefully. Finally, a young man gallantly stood and gave her his seat. The gratitude in her eyes was quite touching to see.

Your papers, please. When traveling it is a good idea to take a detailed itinerary, as well as leave one for your family or a friend. If you are attending a conference, have the confirmation material with you.

Years ago, I visited Amsterdam. I will never forget how embarrassed I was when a large group of noisy, obnoxious Americans joined our canal tour. Don't forget that when you are in a foreign country, you are a guest.

You are also a guest when you visit Topeka, Los Angeles or Boston!

(Sinara Stull O'Donnell is a writer and professional speaker in the career arena through her company SinaraSpeaks.)