Closing that slippery deal or overseeing a complex operation often requires a delicate personal touch, even if that means traveling halfway around the globe. There’s always a degree of risk involved.
After all, not every business trip can have you visit safe environments free from diseases and other hazards. Even so, shifting geopolitical circumstances and a post-pandemic world introduce new challenges even seasoned business travelers need to be mindful of.
In this article, we examine six risks associated with business travel, discuss their implications, and offer actionable advice on how to mitigate or avoid them.
1. Misfortunes may happen during travel
Multiple factors can conspire to delay or disrupt your travels. Consequently, you should adopt measures and behaviors that mitigate them. Flights may get delayed due to volatile weather, your luggage might get lost, or you may have trouble traversing city streets if a celebration or protest is going on.
Make sure that all your travel documents are in order, and make digital copies just in case. When possible, try to arrange meetings and other business activities in a way that leaves breathing room for delays and other unforeseen situations.
2. Health issues might appear on the go
The stresses and idiosyncrasies of constant business travel introduce many health risks. On the one hand, experiencing frequent jet lag can disrupt one’s circadian rhythm and lead to sleep deprivation coupled with irritability and a lack of concentration. On the other, frequent exposure to airports and other hubs of human activity can compromise your immune system.
Minimizing the risks involves staying conscious of bodily needs like hydration and proper nutrition. A good hygiene routine can help stave off diseases and infections. Finally, getting some light exercise in when appropriate helps bring balance to your physical and mental health.
3. Communication may become riskier than you think
It’s not uncommon for business travelers to prepare for meetings or communicate with the home office while using networks like free public Wi-Fi. Doing so exposes them to cyber threats like man-in-the-middle attacks that can monitor and steal transmitted data. If you happen to expose sensitive company accounts when such an attack takes place, the resulting data breach could lead to significant loss of finances and client trust, not to mention legal consequences.
Rather than rely on unsafe local networks and unreliable internet. Business travelers heading Germany, for example, could get a dependable eSIM for Europe and sweep their worries away completely. The eSIM chip in the phones can work with local networks without needing to be physically replaced.
There are many benefits, from the mobile connection’s inherent encryption and stronger security measures to the lowest costs for local data plans. eSIMs are also convenient for traveling between regions since seamlessly switching to a different carrier is only a matter of choosing it in the app.
4. Malicious actors may get a hold of sensitive information
Confidential business data is a sought-after commodity, so you should use physical and digital safeguards to protect it. Before departure, make sure to back crucial data up to a separate physical drive. Secure any devices you use to store or access data with biometric authentication and strong passwords.
Making use of your laptop’s Kensington lock will keep it safe from snatch and grab. Consider keeping it, disk drives, etc., locked in a room safe if there is one until you need them. Make sure not to prevent accidentally connecting to Wi-Fi hotspots by disabling auto-connect.
5. You might run into local scammers
Even if your itinerary does not include sightseeing, scams targeting travelers may still disrupt your plans. Examples abound, from fake taxis and overinflated service prices to sophisticated gadgets like ATM skimmers.
Before departure, familiarize yourself with the scams your destination is known for to avoid becoming a victim. Research common tactics used by scammers, such as distraction techniques or counterfeit goods, to stay one step ahead. Staying vigilant and trusting your instincts can help you avoid unnecessary financial losses and stress during your trip.
6. Your physical safety may be compromised
The risk of physical injury is unpredictable and depends highly on your circumstances. Generally, safe cities tend to have neighborhoods that foreigners shouldn’t wander into or become less safe at night. It’s even more complicated for women, especially if they’re solo business travelers.
Planning helps reduce the chances of putting yourself in physical danger. Research your accommodations and the area they’re located in. Avoid unsafe or touristy areas to reduce the chances of muggings and theft by pickpockets.
Always let someone know if you’re planning to go out, keep an eye on your drink, and have a taxi or rideshare service bring you straight to your accommodation afterward.
All in all, staying informed and taking proactive precautions greatly help business travelers minimize risks and focus on their professional objectives with tremendous peace of mind. Prioritizing safety, health, and security ensures a smoother and more productive travel experience.
