Mixing Business With Pleasure

I recently attended a cruise hosted by one of my major clients, who asked me to present my Dress for Success program while on board. My husband I found it to be an amazing experience. After all, how often does one get the opportunity to swap the boardroom for a cruise ship outfitted with luxury amenities?

On this particular cruise, the schedule was packed with business meetings, cocktail receptions, deck parties, and formal dinners. Because I was there in a professional capacity, as opposed to being a tourist or typical passenger, I felt obliged to take care when mixing business with pleasure.

Normally, when I lead a seminar, it is on a day-to-day basis in an office setting. There is little time for socializing outside of the program, and when my session is over, I head home. My husband would not accompany me. It is clear that I am there to work, end of story.

On a business trip, in which you may find yourself in a hotel or on a cruise ship, it’s less clear-cut. Spouses are often invited. You cannot simply give a session and head home—you will run into clients, colleagues, and, in my line of work, the people you are training. Yes, there is free time, but ultimately I must never forget that the client is paying for me to be here, and I don’t want to call my image into question or take advantage of their generosity by, say, overindulging in the open bar or throwing parties in my room. Work comes first, and then leisure.

Of course, your client wouldn’t want you cooped up in your room all day. What a waste! It’s fine to enjoy activities, but just bear in mind that you are representing your business and the client. If you run into work contacts, be friendly and sociable. Answer any questions they may have. Don’t get annoyed that they are interrupting your “vacation.” It’s not a vacation. It’s your job.

Prioritizing is key. Before treating yourself to a dip in the pool or a session at the gym, ask yourself if you are prepared for whatever work you are there to do. Is there a business meeting or networking event that you should be attending? Have you made yourself available to the client and his or her employees? Even if you aren’t sure how a particular event may specifically benefit you, it is oftentimes important just to “show your face.” This shows the client that you are invested in the business at hand and aren’t blowing off work to enjoy a holiday on their dime.

If your client invites you to dine with them, do so. Yes, a candlelit dinner with your spouse is more tempting, but you must remind yourself who is paying for the trip. If you suspect that there will be a lot of work-related events to attend to, make this clear to your guest and try to create a schedule that allows you some quality time together.

Lastly, be mindful of how you dress. Strutting around the cruise ship in a teeny tiny swimsuit or sloppy logo tee won’t do you any favors. Always make an effort to look tidy and nicely put-together—a decent-quality solid t-shirt and clean, ironed shorts or a skirt is all it takes. Instead of a racy bikini and flip-flops, try a flattering one-piece with a chic cover-up and slightly dressier sandals.

Bottom line: A business trip is just that—a business trip. Enjoy the change of scenery and the free time you’re afforded, but remember that you’re there to work, not do cannonballs in the pool.

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