Traveling with co-workers, however, involves a set of informal rules of which it’s helpful to be aware. Here are a few that I’ve learned over time.
1. Don’t insist on sitting together on the plane.
Plane etiquette is tricky. Some people don’t mind gabbing away the whole time, while others would like nothing more than sit silently with their iPad and relish the calm before their trip’s storm. Because it can be difficult to ascertain your co-worker’s camp and awkward if you get it wrong, sit apart unless you can’t avoid it. You can probably use the quiet time yourself.
2. Do use the trip as an opportunity.
During a trip, you will probably have more chances to converse with your colleagues than usual. Use the time to get to know them as human beings. Express curiosity about their family and hobbies and be open in answering their questions about your lifestyle. The closer you become when you travel, the stronger your relationship will be back at the office.
3. Don’t let your guard down too far.
Of course, there is a such thing as getting too close. Always look presentable and avoid inappropriate conversation topics such as sex, drugs, current personal struggles, mean-spirited gossip, and anything you’d be embarrassed about if your boss found out. Never use a business trip to launch a physical or sexual relationship with a colleague. Even if you are both single, this is not the time or the place.
For more dos and don'ts for traveling with colleagues, check out the full post on Intuit's Fast Track blog.





Recent Comments