Business Travel: Presence at 30,000 Feet

Business flights have become almost routine. Today you're in Munich, tomorrow it’s lunch with a few people in Austin, and by evening, you're in Tokyo for a conference. And because of that rhythm, many of us don’t fully realise this: the way we approach business travel—regardless of flight time—says a lot about who we are. As professionals, as people, and as ambassadors of the companies we represent.

If your company is footing the bill, everything matters. How you carry yourself during the trip, how you show up, what you wear, the bag you bring, even what you leave behind on your assigned seat—it all reflects back on your employer.

It’s tempting to default to full comfort mode when you’re flying in just for a single meeting. But here’s the truth: a well-fitted shirt instantly creates a sharper presence than a T-shirt. A sleek, cabin-approved carry-on is far more elegant (and functional) than juggling a backpack, a side bag, and a wallet stuffed in your pocket. And tidying up your space before landing? That costs nothing—but says everything.

That kind of attention—to the crew, to the people behind you in line, to the shared experience—requires minimal effort but delivers maximum impact. It elevates your personal image and helps things run smoother for everyone.

And here’s a final thought: you never know who you’ll cross paths with at the airport. That person a few seats down might just be the one you're heading to meet.