For the well-prepared Traveller, airports can be productive places. With a little planning, a delayed flight can provide a valuable opportunity to catch up on work. Here, we share a selection of tips to help you get the most from your unscheduled layovers.
1. Pack wisely
A productive layover relies on preparation. Whatever you work on— tablet, laptop, notepad—you'll need it on hand. Pack everything you need in order to work, from client contact details to key company info, in one convenient bag. It should all fit into your carry-on luggage, meaning you can access it easily.
2. Keep regular business hours
When you're on the road, it's easy to slip out of your routine. For the sake of work though, it pays to keep your schedule in line with the office back home, or clients you’re meeting at your destination. This will help you stay mentally focused on the task at hand. It'll also make it easier to stay in touch with co-workers, or clients, from the comfort of the airport lounge.
3. Set up base somewhere peaceful
Only newcomers to the world of corporate travel think of airports as hectic places. Seasoned business Travellers know that every airport has its own oasis. Normally, you'll find it in the airport lounge.
The tranquillity of airport lounges makes them ideal places to work. Lounges, such as the award-winning Marhaba Lounge at Dubai International, are packed with first-class business facilities and spaces to relax. Everything from Wi-Fi to cinemas is taken care of during a Dubai Airport layover.
4. Stay fresh and fueled
Another perk of airport lounges is that they offer a chance to recharge. The Preludium Lounge in Warsaw Frederic Chopin’s Terminal A recently won the award for Best Business Facilities in the 2016 Priority Pass ceremony. Access to Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces are crucial, but showers and a world-class refreshment service are equally important for Travellers on the clock.
Delays don't just affect Travellers—they can also have an impact on the clients you're on your way to meet. Co-workers and clients will always appreciate being in the loop. It's wise to keep them up to date with the work you're getting done and the status of your travel delays.
Taking control of the situation is key to getting the most out of delays. If you're well prepared, and follow the five steps above, a few extra hours in the airport can be a blessing in disguise.