Are you taking a trip to Washington DC for business purposes? If this is your first visit to the district, you’ll want to be prepared. Here are the essential tips for a productive Washington, DC Business Trip…

Appearance Is Everything During Your Washington DC Business Trip

One of the most important things to remember in going on a business trip to Washington, DC or anywhere is: Appearance is everything. You can really make a great impression on those you need to influence when you’re staying at a conducive location, dressed well, and come well-prepared for meetings.

In a city like Washington, DC, there’s a certain velocity to business. Those who don’t interact as if they are thriving can quickly get left behind.

You may have already worked through the following:

• The best way to travel to DC
• How to travel in Washington DC
• Your Washington DC itinerary

Now your vital task is preparing for a trip to Washington DC for business purposes.

If you are a young professional or a newer traveler to the region, this article is for you. Here are six steps for a successful Washington DC business tip.

Make A Plan For Your Trip

Often enough, there are things beyond your control, such as weather and plane issues, so you should always have back-up plans ready ahead of time. If you plan your itinerary with different options, you can build in a buffer zone for unavoidable delays so that your whole trip isn’t sent off-track because of one mishap.

If you are driving, it is important to learn and plan your route to ensure you know what traffic and parking are like at where you are staying. If you are relying on public transportation, it’s equally important to know in advance how much time you should give yourself to arrive on time at your destination stops.

The Right Hotel

True, there are plenty of budget hotels with useful options. However, it may be more worth your while to arrange more upscale accommodations due to the options that could save you time and money in the long run.

One of the more popular DC hotels for business travelers is Grand Hyatt Washington. It’s right in the heart of the nation’s capital — near the White House. Plus, there’s a Metro Center linked to the lobby!

The services and amenities are indeed befitting of a leading hotel in Washington. That makes it convenient to set some meetings right there. Even better, you’ll make a good impression with mentions that you’re staying at Grand Hyatt Washington.

Dress Appropriately

One of the first rules of thumb on a business trip is to dress appropriately. This is not the time to go business casual even if many other people let their standards slip while they are traveling.

If you are a man, you should wear a pressed suit, crisp white button-down shirt, and tie whenever you are having important meetings or giving a presentation. If you’re a woman, you should also wear a nice suit, whether you prefer slacks or a skirt.

Be Punctual … Always

Punctuality should be one of your top priorities at all times. It shows your colleagues and business associates that you respect them, and are serious and care about your work.

You have to make wise decisions every moment during your business trip to ensure that you are on time for:

• All of your meetings
• Presentations
• Business lunches or dinners

And other specific commitments.

Being punctual helps you to avoid problems, including being late and having to apologize to those who you kept waiting.

Positive Body Language

While on your Washington, DC business trip (an any business trip), be sure you present positive body language. Smiling and making direct eye contact with people will immediately make them feel at ease and also help you build a sense of trust early on.

Strive for a firm handshake and always stand up straight. Avoid addressing associates with your arms crossed shows you are open and listening. These postures present you in a positive light and encourage positive interaction from others in return.

Speak Clearly

It is absolutely essential to speak clearly and properly enunciate when you are out of the office and in front of business contacts. This is especially important when you are involved in presentations and meetings, but in general, it will make a huge impression on people.

Avoid mumbling and speak at a volume hearable to all. When people hear and understand you, they’ll be more open to engaging with you and your ideas.

Final Thoughts On Your Washington DC Business Trip

The business travel tips outlined above will help you to make the best possible appearance on your Washington, DC business trip, and all business trips going forward. Business associates will appreciate you. The most important step to any process is follow-up. Do that, and your investment in the business visit will bring the desired ROI.

RD