Lucy Brazier is one of the world’s leading authorities on the administrative profession. As CEO of Marcham Publishing, publisher of Executive Secretary Magazine, Lucy regularly travels over 100,000 miles a year.  In the last 12 months alone she has visited 41 different countries, speaking at a mind boggling 189 different conferences, training courses and special events. So who better than to share some Top Tips for busy travelling Executives? meetingsclub’s Mark Bailey managed to grab a few minutes with Lucy before she hopped on another plane.  

Lucy Brazier’s Personal Top 6 Travel Tips for International Executives: 

 

• Choose an airline that you like and stick with them so you can quickly gain “Gold Status” – this will enable you to access First Class Lounges which offer a much calmer environment to work and get something to eat.  Gold Status also enables you to select your seat preference early eg an aisle seat.
• Book a special meal which is served as soon as the flight takes.  You’ll get the chance get to sleep much quicker particularly on overnight flights.
• Be “kinder to yourself” – try and fly a day before your engagement/meeting and get a massage if you’re flying long-haul.
• Consider using a nasal gel to stop de-hydration when you’re breathing and drink lots and lots of water.
• Get up regularly and wander around the plane.  Stretch exercises also keep the blood flowing and reduce the risk of DVT.
• To combat jet lag, immediately set your watch when you get on the plane to the time of your end destination – and then when you arrive, carry on exactly the same as a local.  Also, a 20 minute nap can help boost energy levels.

 

And take a look at Matthew Want’s (EA to Lucy) great advice on how to help your boss when they are travelling on business abroad: 

 

• Plan in advance particularly when it comes to Visa applications.  Try and apply online, but remember some countries require a face to face meeting before issuing a visa.  Plus, visa requirements can change so it’s always worth re-checking the current country entry status
• Create a detailed itinerary from the first flight departure until to your Executive returns. Include all hotel and meetings and always have a copy of their Passport as this is invaluable if items such as phones or bags are stolen, and proof of identity and ownership is required
• If things go wrong, don’t forget to use your overseas network of contacts to help
• Research local customs and social/business etiquette in advance.  Remember when visiting Papua New Guinea to take a reciprocal gift for dinner!
• Know what the local emergency numbers are for each country being visited – you never know when it might be needed!
• Always be there for your boss – good communication is key!