Pierpont Communications, Inc.

Lately, I’ve spent a fair amount of time on the road, traveling for clients, for Pierpont and for the organizations I’m involved in. As long as it is in moderation (fortunately for me, it typically is), I enjoy business travel. It gives me a chance to see new places, meet new people and experience how things are done differently, even when that “different” is only three hours down the highway.

Of course, there are also downsides. For me, the biggest challenge is the productivity lost while in between locations. However, I’ve developed a few mechanisms that help me maintain my momentum even while I move through the country.

Phone time – I rarely have time during the day for lengthy phone calls, even when I really should make them. Occasionally, I just need to spend time talking through a tough client challenge with a team member or find out how our initiatives are going with a fellow member of AMA’s Professional Chapters Council (whom I only see in person three times per year). Travel, especially by car, provides a great opportunity to have those discussions over Bluetooth or speakerphone when I’m not distracted by the next email blinking on my computer screen.

Brainstorming – We always wish we had more time to throw around ideas for new marketing initiatives, or brainstorm creative angles for media coverage. However, setting aside focused time for that kind of creative work can be a challenge. So I often use my time in the car or settled at the airline gate with my Starbucks to focus on some creative ideas. Those environments are more suitable for creative thinking than when I’m sitting at my desk.

Books & Articles – I have long had that “I’m gonna get to that” stack on my desk. You know the one… there are lots of good articles relevant to your industry, an in-depth profile on an issue you care about and maybe even a few business books that you fully intend to read... someday. Well, I’ve given up the idea that I’ll ever sit at my desk and read those items. Instead I throw one or two into my computer bag to read them on the plane. Hard copies can be great for the no-electronics time during takeoffs and landings. And dropping some books or articles onto your tablet to peruse while you’re waiting at security makes wasted time feel a lot less wasteful.

Do you find yourself in the car or on an airplane pretty often? How do you stay productive while you’re on the go?