Picture the scene. The headrest is in the upright position, the window blinds are up, and you’re pushing back. Nope, you’re not about to go on vacation: you’re on a business trip. So, it’s important not to treat the flight as a means to an end. The few hours that you are in the air shouldn’t be wasted from a productivity standpoint. That’s pie in the sky. Instead, they should be used to prepare and tie up loose ends before the wheels touch down on the tarmac.
Working from a plane isn’t easy, so here’s how to do it.
Pay For Wifi
It’s impossible to do business without an internet connection, especially as your phone is out of order for the duration. Thankfully, airlines understand the need to stay in touch with the ants on the ground and provide wifi. With a connection in the sky, you can read, research and communicate with clients, customers and employees as if you were in the same room. It’s even possible to send SMS from email in case they are out of range of a router. The rates are a touch expensive yet the money is a small price to pay to keep your output levels high.
Bring A Battery Pack
Not every plane has charging facilities. Unfortunately, the budget airlines aren’t like Emirates and Etihad and don’t provide the same customer service. It’s no bother as long as there is a battery pack in your carry-on luggage. The most basic devices can power a tablet or phone for up to six hours, so it should be more than enough energy. Of course, you can invest in one which lasts for 24 hours without the need to charge itself. Just be sure it turns on and off or else the security at the airport might throw it away due to new measures.
Block Your Ears
Airplanes are surprisingly noisy, and it’s not only down to the engines. The turbines might rumble a little, yet it’s often the drunk person in front who causes a disturbance. As a whole, a plane is a noisy place and it’s tricky to concentrate as a result. Putting in earphones and playing music is one option; however, tunes can be distracting too. As a rule, you’re better off using earbuds to block out the noise. That way, you can’t hear the guy’s annoying conversation and should be able to work productively from the takeoff to landing.
Remember To Sleep
On long-haul business trips, it’s tempting to work as much as possible. But, it’s a bad idea because you’ll suffer from jet lag and won’t be at your best when you land. For those who have to go straight to a meeting, this is very risky. When you board, start working and do a couple of hours until you’re tired. Then, make sure you get some rest. Sleeping on the plane is tricky so it’s important to give your body a chance to drift off.
Last but not least, upgrade when possible. It’s not always financially viable, but when it is, it’s a hell of a lot easier to work effectively.