If you are going abroad on business for the first time, you might be wondering what you should do in order to get yourself ready. Your human resources department will likely have some information for you to address your major concerns, but here is a preview of what you should expect.
1. Complete the forms: Before you go abroad, you need to apply for the proper visas. Your human resources department will arrange for the right paperwork for the countries you plan to conduct business in. If you plan to travel for pleasure while overseas and want to drive to a neighboring country, be sure to make those arrangements yourself. If you are traveling to Europe, you might consider obtaining the Schengen Visa which gives you access to several European countries.
2. Buy the insurance: Your domestic health insurance coverage will not provide benefits if you are injured or become ill and need medical treatment while you are aboard. Travel health insurance provides you a portable health insurance policy that ensures you get the treatment you need and the potential for medical evacuation if necessary. The premiums, limits and deductibles are also flexible, allowing you to create the perfect policy for your trip.
3. Understand special packing needs: There are several different considerations you should make when packing-
a. Climate: What is the general climate of the area you are traveling to?
b. Weather: Is the expected weather similar to the general climate or will it differ during the time of your trip?
c. Electronic adapters: You may need to invest in some power plug adapters and converters since many countries have different outlet structures than you are used to in the United States and some restrict the voltage, which may impact your ability to charge your phone and laptop.
d. Language barriers: If you are traveling to a country in which English is not often spoken, a translation book can be your best friend-even if your business meetings will be conducted in English.
4. Get ready to adjust your clock: Learn how to change the time on your phone, laptop and watch so that you can stay prepared and on top of the time change as you travel.
5. Learn about the culture: There are many cultural lessons you should learn before you go abroad for business. Find out what some of the major (and most commonly committed) social gaffes are, learn about currency exchange and how to calculate its value, learn about how to greet and part from people politely in a personal and business setting and find out whether there are dietary issues that you may have with the country's food.
6. Know the rules and your rights: Whether it applies to airline practices, cell phone roaming, traffic laws, or any other daily activity-there are many new rules and rights you need to become familiar with before you travel abroad for business. It's best to try and learn the most relevant laws and rights before you go, rather than once you are in the middle of an activity.
There is no such thing as over preparing for a business trip abroad. If you do at minimum, the steps above, you should be well prepared and have created the foundation of a successful trip.
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